Attitudes towards varicella vaccination in parents and paediatric healthcare providers in Hungary.

Abstract Background Varicella vaccination is important in prevention of childhood infection. Aim of this cross-sectional study was to survey attitudes and determinants of support or refusal of varicella vaccination in parents and in paediatric healthcare professionals, mainly health visitors in Hungary prior to the introduction of this vaccine in National Immunization Program in 2019. Methods Between October 2018 and February 2019, 1042 parents and 198 healthcare professionals completed a self-administered anonymous questionnaire regarding sociodemographic background, knowledge and attitudes towards varicella vaccination, and reasons for non-vaccination. Results From the participating parents 53.3% have vaccinated at least one of their children. Vaccination rate was significantly higher in families with Conclusions Educational programs are needed for parents and health visitors to address concerns regarding vaccination. Paediatricians are the most trusted source of information for parents hence they have a significant responsibility and parents likely follow their recommendations.