Vaccination in people with disability: a review

Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2020;16(1):7-15. doi: 10.1080/21645515.2019.1640556. Epub 2019 Jul 24.

Abstract

People with disabilities are vulnerable to complications from vaccine-preventable diseases, and every effort should be made to ensure equitable access to immunization for this population. This paper aims to summarize the research on immunizations in people with disabilities, in order to ensure a comprehensive understanding of knowledge in this area and direct further research. The literature is weighted towards coverage data that is difficult to synthesize because of the different definitions of disability, and the variety of settings, vaccinations and age groups across the studies. In-depth qualitative data and data from a variety of health-care providers and people with disability is notably lacking. This is vital to redress in order to develop effective immunization interventions in this population.

Keywords: Immunization; disability; equity; health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Disabled Persons*
  • Health Equity
  • Humans
  • Immunization Programs*
  • Vaccination Coverage
  • Vaccination*

Grants and funding

Jenny O’Neill was funded to undertake this research as part of a PhD with a Research and Training Stipend through The University of Melbourne, Melbourne; and the Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation Research Group Galli Trust through The Murdoch Research Institute, Melbourne; and a grant from DHHS Immunisation Section, Victoria.