Evidence-based strategies to promote vaccine acceptance

The range of psychological, physical and contextual barriers to vaccination uptake are set out in a previous paper (While, 2021).

Understanding vaccine hesitancy: the evidence

The WHO commissioned a systematic review due to concern related to influenza vaccine hesitancy across the globe, which was particularly evident during the 2009–2010 H1N1 pandemic (WHO, 2016). The...

Compulsory vaccinations: sensible or coercive?

You know where you can stick that … or do you? Where to inject the deltoid and why

Finding the important landmarks of the deltoid in the living is not difficult and can soon be learned with a little practice on yourself, your partner and patients; having a clear mental picture...

Are BAME communities really reluctant to take the COVID-19 vaccination?

The RSPH commissioned a poll on public attitudes to the COVID-19 vaccine. They asked respondents ‘How likely or unlikely would you be to take a COVID-19 vaccine if you were advised by your GP or...

The ‘new normal’: delivering childhood immunisations during the COVID-19 pandemic

Delivery of the national immunisation programmes in general practice did not cease. Good coverage of immunisations is crucial to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases (such as pertussis...

The quest to find an effective vaccine for COVID-19

Coronaviruses include a range of organisms that can cause diseases, including the common cold and the current SARS-CoV-2. Despite the original severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus...

Measles: An overview for practice nurses

The disease is most likely to occur in late winter or spring. Spread occurs via respiratory droplets, which can remain active and contagious, either airborne or on surfaces, for up to 2 hours (Chen,...

Pneumococcal disease and vaccination: recent changes to the schedule

Pneumococcal disease is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is an encapsulated organism, which increases its virulence, and more than 90 different capsular types (serotypes)...

Responding to errors in the storage, handling, and administration of vaccines

Vaccines, like all biological substances, degrade over time. Exposure to extremes of heat, cold, sunlight or fluorescent light can accelerate this process. Recommended temperature ranges are detailed...

Improving uptake of influenza vaccination in primary care

GP practices need to have systems in place that enable staff to identify people eligible for flu vaccination. Suggested methods of contacting patients include by writing (letter, email or text...

Could mandatory vaccinations increase uptake in children?

This rise in measles cases, coupled with Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock's refusal to rule out mandatory vaccination, has initiated the debate around the use of such punitive measures as...