Funding outcome

Immunizations are essential to protect populations from infectious diseases. Yet, immunocompromised children may not be benefiting from this intervention. Some of the diseases that children are routinely immunized against include diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis (polio), pertussis (whooping cough), measles, and more. After immunization, the body is able to fight off disease exposure without becoming seriously ill. Without immunity, these diseases can be deadly. Under-immunization is a state in which an individual has suboptimal protection against vaccine preventable diseases because they are missing some or all of the recommended vaccines to provide protection, which is a significant public health challenge. Some children have impaired immune systems due to conditions, medical treatments, or medications that suppress their immune function. Immunocompromised children become more susceptible to infections, and the infections can be more severe than normal. Therefore, it is important for these children to receive appropriate immunization coverage. There are many factors that may cause children with immunocompromising conditions to be under-immunized, including accessibility, lack of knowledge and guidelines, fear of adverse effects, views of parents and healthcare providers, and missed opportunities. The purpose of this scoping literature review is to determine the current state of knowledge regarding immunization coverage of children who are immunocompromised. Specifically, we want to examine the extent, range, and nature of research activity, as well as to identify research gaps in the existing literature. Ascertaining the current state of knowledge about immunization of children who are immunocompromised will enable us to determine the focus of our work in this field. Future investigation is being conducted in partnership with the Alberta Ministry of Health in order to inform public health policy.