An online survey conducted among physicians in the United States, France, and Germany has shed light on their perspectives regarding pertussis vaccines. The findings show that while these physicians recognize the elevated risk faced by adults with weakened immune systems and chronic respiratory illnesses, they consider pertussis vaccines less important compared to those against COVID-19, influenza, and pneumococcal disease.

Uncovering Physicians' Priorities in Vaccine Choices

Survey Methodology and Participants

For this study published today in BMC Primary Care, a team led by researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and vaccine developer Sanofi surveyed 400 US physicians and 200 each in France and Germany from November 2022 to January 2023. The respondents were sourced from an independent database of physicians expressing an interest in participating in research. Pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory tract infection affecting all ages but most severe in young infants, was the focus of the survey. Adults with respiratory conditions or other chronic illnesses are also at risk of serious consequences from pertussis.

During the survey, it was observed that attitudes towards pertussis vaccines remained similar both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 65% of respondents indicated that universal vaccination against pertussis is important, which is a lower percentage than for other vaccines such as COVID-19 (82%), flu (81%), pneumococcal disease (76%), and tetanus (73%). The results were consistent across countries as well.

Recognizing the Need for Vaccination but Challenges Persist

Physicians acknowledged the necessity of immunizing vulnerable adults at risk of severe pertussis, including those with respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. However, this awareness often did not translate into actual vaccination of these priority groups, especially in the absence of official recommendations. Respondents estimated that among the adults they recommend the pertussis vaccine to, two-thirds agree to receive it. A common reason for not getting vaccinated was the perception of low personal risk.

Most surveyed physicians (76%) believed that adult pertussis vaccination uptake is suboptimal and emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable people. They agreed on the significance of vaccinating either the person at risk or their close contacts (78%). Despite recognizing the need, there seems to be a gap between awareness and action when it comes to pertussis vaccination among vulnerable adult populations.