Influenza Vaccine Uptake and Parental Attitudes Following School-Located Vaccination: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Two Rural Primary Schools

Abstract

Aims
To evaluate whether school-located influenza vaccination (SLIV) improves uptake and to assess parental attitudes in two primary schools.

Methods
A post-season questionnaire was distributed to parents following GP-led SLIV clinics in 2024/25 assessing uptake, reasons for non-vaccination and attitudes using 5-point Likert scales and free-text responses. 66 of 67 responses (98.5%) were analysed.

Results
The survey was issued to 201 eligible schoolchildren across two rural primary schools. There were 66 responses (33%). Of respondents, 32 (48.5%) children were vaccinated; 22 (33%) in school and 10 (15%) elsewhere. Parents rated clarity of information regarding vaccination highly, with 52 (80%) reporting information received as clear or very clear. Parents were more likely to vaccinate when SLIV was available, with 34 (52%) reporting that they were likely or very likely to vaccinate, rising to 29 (91%) among those vaccinated this year. The most common reasons for declining were belief the vaccine was unnecessary (21/34, 62%) and safety concerns (9/34, 26%).

Discussion
SLIV improved uptake relative to national and local averages and was generally well received. Attitudinal barriers, especially perceptions of low necessity and safety concerns, remain the primary obstacles. Expanding SLIV alongside stronger public health messaging may offer a scalable strategy to increase uptake.