Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Among Saudi Children: Parental Barriers and Willingness to Vaccinate Their Children in the Makkah Region

Introduction: The influenza virus produces everything from seasonal epidemics to unexpected pandemics, making its prevention and management a worldwide public health challenge. The main method to prevent and control seasonal influenza is vaccination. Children responded quite successfully to influenza vaccinations, particularly live vaccines. Despite the strong recommendations and effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccinations in children, some parents still hesitate and refuse to give their children the shot. Objective: This study, given the importance of knowing the factors that contribute to parents' refusal of influenza vaccine, also aims to assess parental barriers and willingness to vaccinate their children in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among Saudi parents in the Makkah region. For data collection, an online survey was conducted between December 1, 2022, and February 11, 2023. Results: In total, 334 of the parents participated in our study. The result shows that there is a significant association between parents' gender and receiving the flu vaccine, with significantly more females (52.4%). Regarding the willingness to get the vaccine, the majority of the parents reported that they will get the vaccine and vaccinate their children, and the most common barrier that prevents parents from vaccinating their children is that they do not need it because they are healthy (21.48%). Furthermore, there is a strong relationship between educational level and knowledge about seasonal influenza vaccination; the majority of parents at each level of education have poor knowledge regarding influenza vaccines. In addition, nearly all of our participants (96.7%) believed the information provided by the Saudi Ministry of Health as well as the advice of their physicians. Conclusion: This study highlights the need to increase awareness, educate the parents in the Makkah region about the importance of the influenza vaccine, and encourage them to vaccinate their children.