Vrije Universiteit Brussel


Balemans R, Devroey D, Van De Vijver E, Chovanova H, Vandevoorde J. Knowledge and attitudes about vaccinations among adolescents. J Prev Med Hyg. 2011 Jun;52(2):64-72.

Eerste auteur: Balemans R.

Jaar: 2011

Type: Publicatie

Medline

J Prev Med Hyg.

Abstract:

PURPOSE:
The aim of this study was to investigate among adolescents in Antwerp their knowledge about vaccination and to describe their information sources, motives and barriers for vaccination.

METHODS:
In March 2009, adolescents aged between 14 and 17 years from three schools with a mixed Belgian and immigrant population in Antwerp completed a written questionnaire concerning vaccination. The questionnaire was already used and validated in a study in five European countries: France, Italy, Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom.

RESULTS:
In total 186 adolescents completed the questionnaire. Most of them (93%) knew that vaccination is a method to prevent disease. Most adolescents knew about the existence of vaccines against tetanus (94%), hepatitis B (91%) and human papillomavirus (87%). The most important sources for information were the family physician (83%), the school (79%) and the parents (70%). Their knowledge about vaccinations was not related to courses about vaccination at school.

CONCLUSIONS:
The physician, the school and the parents play a key role in the vaccination of adolescents. Our results are in many aspects similar to those in the other European countries.

Trefwoorden: Vaccination; adolescents; primary care; preventive medicine

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