Determinants of pregnant women’s knowledge about influenza and the influenza vaccine: A large, single-centre cohort study

INTRODUCTION: Although influenza can lead to adverse outcomes during pregnancy, the level of influenza vaccine coverage among pregnant women remains very low. According to the literature, a high level of knowledge about influenza disease and the influenza vaccine is one of the main determinants of vaccination coverage. The objective of the present study was to describe pregnant women’s level of knowledge of these topics and to identify any corresponding determinants. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective, observational, hospital-based study of women having given birth in our university medical centre during the 2014–2015 influenza season. Data were collected through a self-questionnaire or extracted from medical records. Determinants of highest knowledge were identified using logistic regression. RESULTS: Of the 2069 women included in the study, 827 (40%) did not know that influenza can lead to severe adverse outcomes for the mother, and 960 (46%) did not know about possible severe adverse outcomes for the baby. Two hundred and one women (9.8%) stated that the vaccine was “contraindicated” or “unnecessary” during pregnancy. Only 205 women (17%) had been vaccinated during a previous pregnancy. Determinants of the highest level of knowledge were age over 24, a high educational level, previous influenza vaccination, nulliparity, and the recommendation of vaccination by a healthcare professional. CONCLUSIONS: Recommending vaccination during pregnancy appears to increase knowledge about influenza and its vaccine among pregnant women.