Study reveals…Mothers who have pregnancy vaccines are more likely to have their child vaccinated against MMR

In a comprehensive study examining vaccination trends among children in the United Kingdom, researchers at Imperial College London from the NIHR ARC Northwest London Child Population Health theme have uncovered significant associations between socio-demographic determinants, maternal vaccination during pregnancy, and childhood uptake of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccines.

The study led by  Dr Helen Skirrow, titled "Impact of Pregnancy Vaccine Uptake and Socio-demographic Determinants on Subsequent Childhood Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine Uptake: A UK Birth Cohort Study," utilised nationally representative linked mother-baby electronic records from the UK's Clinical Practice Research Datalink. Analysing data from a birth cohort spanning two decades, researchers investigated vaccination rates among children and the impact of maternal vaccination on subsequent childhood immunisation.

Key findings from the study showed:

Influence of Maternal Vaccination: Maternal uptake of pertussis vaccine during pregnancy emerged as a significant predictor of childhood MMR vaccination. Children born to mothers who received vaccinations during pregnancy were 40% more likely to receive MMR vaccines during childhood, emphasising the pivotal role of maternal vaccination in shaping childhood immunisation behaviours.

Socio-demographic Disparities: Children residing in deprived areas were found to be over 10% less likely to receive MMR vaccinations compared to their counterparts in more affluent areas. Additionally, children of Black ethnicity and those born to mothers under the age of 20 were at increased risk of being unvaccinated, highlighting socio-demographic disparities in vaccination uptake.

Lead researcher Dr Helen Skirrow stated, "Our findings underscore the critical need for healthcare services to promote and facilitate access to vaccines during pregnancy, particularly among social and demographic groups and areas with low MMR uptake. By encouraging mothers to take up pregnancy vaccines against influenza and whooping cough vaccination, we could significantly improve childhood immunisation rates and safeguard public health."

The study's implications extend beyond the UK, offering valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare providers globally. By understanding the complex interplay between socio-demographic factors and maternal vaccination on childhood immunisation, stakeholders can develop targeted interventions to enhance vaccination coverage and mitigate the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.

As the world continues to confront the challenges posed by infectious diseases, studies such as these serve as essential tools in advancing public health initiatives and safeguarding the well-being of communities worldwide.

Let's empower mothers with information and support to make informed vaccination decisions during pregnancy and beyond. Together, we can protect our communities and safeguard the health of future generations. Take action today to promote vaccination awareness and accessibility in your community.