Influenza vaccination during pregnancy: Opinions and practices of obstetricians in an urban community

Background: Influenza vaccination is recommended for all women who will be pregnant during the influenza season; however, little is known about the attitudes of physicians regarding vaccination of pregnant women. Methods: We conducted a survey of all the fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) who live and practice in Nashville, Tennessee, focusing on physician knowledge, practices, and opinions regarding influenza vaccination of pregnant women. Results: Thirty-seven of 58 (64%) eligible physicians participated. Obstetrician opinion on the earliest influenza vaccine administration for healthy pregnant women was 62% during the second trimester, 32% during the first trimester, and 6% felt that the vaccine should not be given during pregnancy. All physicians responded that pregnant women with an underlying high risk condition should be vaccinated. Conclusion: Practicing obstetricians differ in their preferences regarding the timing of influenza vaccine administration in pregnant women. Obstetrician and patient opinion and practice should be studied and considered in developing vaccine guidelines and vaccine implementation strategies.