A Complex Challenge: Routine Pediatric Immunizations During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Authors

Tracey M. Dixon, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Pediatrics

Advisor

Dr. Lawrence Herman

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to discuss the effect the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the administration of immunizations for vaccine preventable diseases in pediatrics.

Method: A PubMed literature search was conducted with “search terms” COVID-19 pandemic and childhood vaccines, vaccine hesitancy. The search provided 23 relevant articles for this clinical literature review.

Results: There was a substantial amount of evidence-based research identifying the multifaceted causes of the reduction in the administration of childhood vaccines during the COVID- 19 pandemic.

Conclusion: The COVID -19 pandemic has had a significant effect on the administration of childhood vaccinations. The reduction in immunization rates can be attributed to multiple factors of which the pandemic has exacerbated. It is essential that public health initiatives are established within the pediatric community to increase the vaccination rate. If vaccine rates are not improved immediately, the rate of vaccine preventable diseases could increase causing disease outbreaks resulting in unnecessary morbidity and mortality.

Recommended Citation

Dixon TM. A Complex Challenge: Routine Pediatric Immunizations During the COVID-19 Pandemic. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 4(1).