Twenty percent of Canadian parents have concerns about
immunizations, or delay or refuse vaccines, and the goal of CPS is to lower
this number through education. The Internet, traditional media and celebrities
have led to an increase in the negative perception parents have of vaccines.
It’s been noted that even 5-10 minutes on an anti-vaccine website can seriously
change parents’ perception of vaccine risks.
Dr. Noni MacDonald is a pediatric infectious disease
specialist at IWK Health Center in Halifax, Nova Scotia and co-authored the new
CPS practice point. “Since immunization is one of the most important
preventative health measures, literally responsible for saving millions of
lives, addressing the concerns of vaccine hesitant parents has to be a priority
for health care providers,” she states.
CPS notes that health care providers’ advice is a major influence
on parental decisions, and recommends that health care providers take the time
to understand parents vaccine related concerns. The proactive approach of
listening to parents, building trust and addressing concerns will remedy
misconceptions and lead to a higher vaccination rate.
Dr. Jane Finlay is a member of the CPS Infectious Disease
and Immunization Committee and co-author of the new practice point. “It’s
important to reassure parents that vaccines are safe and effective, and to
explain that if they decide not to vaccinate, they’re exposing their child and
entire family to risk. Because of vaccination, today’s generation of parents
haven’t seen diseases like measles or meningitis, so it’s important they
understand these are still a very real threat,” she states.
Vaccine Watch urges all parents with concerns about vaccines
to talk with their child’s pediatrician about the risks and benefits of
vaccination.
