Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Physicians Regarding Administration of Childhood Vaccines to Children with HIV Infection

摘要

Anecdotal information suggests many pediatricians are reluctant to immunize children who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) because they fear the vaccines could cause severe reactions or accelerate HIV-related diseases. The study examines pediatricians' attitudes toward immunizing these children and their knowledge of the recommendation by the Immunization Practices Advisory Committee (ACIP) that all children, regardless of HIV status, receive inactivated vaccines and live measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine. Surveys of 486 pediatricians in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami showed that (1) about 60% of respondents believe that common vaccines are effective in preventing disease in HIV-infected children and high-risk children, and this belief is consistent with available data; (2) two-thirds of respondents were aware of recommendations on the administration of vaccines to HIV-infected children; and (3) for all vaccines, 40% or more of respondents chose an immunization option other then the ACIP recommendation.