Vaccination is one of the most important preventive areas in medicine, the role of which has increased in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the territorial features of awareness and attitudes towards vaccination of young mothers have not been studied.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To assess the attitude to vaccination and awareness of young mothers on the example of residents of the Smolensk region.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the period from September to December 2021, a survey was conducted of 200 mothers (mean age 23.5±5.1 years) living in Smolensk. The original questionnaire was used, including 7 closed and 3 open questions. The results of the survey were evaluated using a qualitative analysis.

RESULTS

The results of a qualitative study of the attitude of young mothers to vaccination showed that most mothers have a positive attitude towards the vaccination of their children and themselves in order to maintain health. At the same time, only about 50% of them vaccinate their children within the time limits set by the national vaccination calendar. 82% of young mothers pointed to medical workers as the main source of information about immunoprophylaxis. Of the total number of mothers surveyed, only 9% were not vaccinated themselves, and 11.5% of respondents categorically refused to vaccinate their children. The main reason for their refusal was the fear of post-vaccination reactions and complications, 47% of mothers do not see the need for vaccination and 24.5% believe that the harm from vaccination exceeds the risk of infection.

CONCLUSION

The results of the study indicate the need to conduct trainings for doctors and other medical workers on motivation for immunoprophylaxis, strengthen health education among the population and conduct conversations with parents about the possible consequences of not vaccinating.