Current Addison Pediatric Project Details

Evaluation of vaccine uptake and associated factors influencing adherence to recommended immunization schedules among pediatric solid organ transplant recipients in BC

Solid organ transplant is a vital treatment for children with severe illnesses. However, these children require lifelong treatment to suppress the immune system to prevent rejection of the transplant, leaving them vulnerable to infections. Unfortunately, the multiple hospital visits can also disrupt their vaccination schedules, further increasing the risk of infection in these children who need vaccines more than anyone else.

British Columbia Children’s Hospital provides care for all children in B.C. who have had a transplant, providing a unique opportunity for the team to improve immunization rates among transplant recipients. This project’s primary goal is to assess adherence to immunization guidelines among approximately 150 solid organ transplant recipients in B.C., including kidney, liver, and heart transplant recipients. This study will specifically look at whether these children are receiving vaccines as recommended and identify factors that are more common in those who have not received all the recommended vaccines. It will also identify whether or not children are having blood tests to check if they have responded to their vaccines, and how doctors and nurses are using this information to decide which vaccines to give. By pinpointing factors associated with lower vaccine uptake, the project aims to inform the adaptation of vaccination programs, develop educational materials for families, and enhance vaccine counseling in transplant clinics.