Work

Variations in vaccination coverage by social care need: a scoping review

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Vaccination rates vary in the UK population but are vital in maintaining public health. Social care needs (SCN) refer to the promotion of independence and wellbeing, particularly in those who may have a disability, be socially isolated, or endure economic stress. Variations in SCN may impact vaccine uptake, thereby affecting vaccination coverage, but this is poorly understood. We aim in our study to collate and interpret existing evidence on the variations in vaccination coverage among individuals with SCN. Searches were conducted using Medline, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and Bielefeld Academic Search Engine (BASE) from inception to June 27, 2024. Grey literature was also searched. Two authors independently screened and extracted relevant papers, with disagreements resolved by a third author. The search terms used included: “vaccination AND social need AND immunisation”, and variations of these terms. We identified 606 articles with 32 meeting the inclusion criteria following full-text screening. Studies originated from various regions, with most conducted in the USA. Key SCN identified as barriers to vaccination included access issues, limited information, social vulnerability, and economic deprivation. Vaccines most affected included influenza, pneumonia, and HPV. Our review collated evidence on vaccination uptake variations in relation to SCN, finding a limited body of research, primarily from the USA. Most studies indicated lower vaccine uptake among individuals with SCN. Greater understanding of these variations could inform improved vaccination uptake, especially in high-risk groups. Further research is needed to identify effective interventions to address these disparities in vaccination coverage. • Vaccination uptake is an increasingly important issue in public health. • Existing research is sparse and located primarily in the USA and Australia. • In most groups with social care needs, vaccine uptake is reduced. • This is especially true in children in care or those experiencing poverty. • Future research on social care needs is vital for improving vaccine uptake.

Source: Vaccine X

DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2025.100754

Authors: Arun Dahil, David Hardisty, Glenn Simpson, Hajira Dambha-Miller

Institution: University of Southampton

Language: English

Topic: Vaccine Coverage and Hesitancy

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,440