GSK launches Vaccinate for Life campaign to improve awareness of the importance of vaccination throughout life and encourage better discussions between adults and healthcare professionals on vaccination
Despite the World Health Organization (WHO) citing immunisation as one of the most powerful and cost-effective interventions in public health, a new survey conducted by Ipsos MORI and sponsored by GSK Vaccines in Brazil, Germany, India, Italy, and the United States finds that 68% of adults are not up-to-date with the vaccines recommended for them.
Findings from the Vaccinate for Life survey of 6,002 adults aged 18 years and over, carried out across five countries also found that:
- 15% of adults believe that vaccinations are only recommended for children and/or babies with 21% thinking they are only needed for travel purposes.
- Almost 3 in 10 adults report not having had any of the vaccines potentially relevant to them within the past five years.
- 60% of adults say they have not received public health information on the importance of adult vaccinations.
“Although mostly associated with childhood, vaccination is not something you outgrow. As we age, so does our immune system and we become more susceptible to infectious diseases which could be prevented through vaccination. It is important that HCPs are aware of the possible benefits of adult vaccination and discuss it with their patients,” said Susanna Esposito, Full Professor at the University of Perugia, Italy, and Infectious Disease Specialist.
Findings from the Vaccinate for Life survey show that when asked to consider why they are not up-to-date, people cite lack of recommendations and/or discussion from their doctor or nurse about the need for vaccines in adult life. They say that they would find a range of information sources useful to help them understand, record and track the vaccinations which may be relevant to them.
“Vaccination throughout life can help protect and contribute to the wellbeing of individuals families and communities. What the Vaccinate for Life survey shows us is that adults need more information on the vaccines relevant to them to help them be more proactive in discussing their vaccination needs with their healthcare professional,” said Dr. Thomas Breuer, Chief Medical Officer, GSK Vaccines.
Other key findings from the Vaccinate for Life survey include:
- Public opinion on value of vaccinations: the study shows a difference in public opinion surrounding the value of keeping up to date with vaccinations throughout adult life, with 26% of adults agreeing that this is not something which they consider to be of value.
- Prioritisation of other health services: 53% of adults surveyed agree that although achieving a healthy lifestyle is important, they are more likely to prioritise other health services over vaccination.
