Parental attitudes and factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination for toddlers in Japan: a questionnaire survey in Toyonaka city.

INTRODUCTION

COVID-19 vaccination rates among toddlers in Japan remain low. However, real-world data on vaccination uptake and its associated factors in toddlers remains limited. We aimed to examine parental perceptions and factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination in toddlers.

METHODS

We conducted a paper-based household survey among parents of children aged 17-20 months attending routine health check-ups in Toyonaka City, Osaka. Information on vaccination status, reasons for vaccination or non-vaccination, and information sources were collected. Clinically relevant parental and child factors were assessed for their association with child vaccination status. Associations between employment status, healthcare worker status, parental receipt of ≥3 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, and reasons for non-vaccination and information sources were also examined.

RESULTS

Of 1060 households, 665 responses were obtained. Only 3.8% of children had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Parental receipt of ≥3 doses was associated with child vaccination. Among parents of unvaccinated children, 56.1% cited concerns about safety and adverse effects. Television or online news influenced 26.7% of respondents, whereas only 9.3% cited social media. Reasons for non-vaccination differed according to parental vaccination status. Only 1.2% of parents planned future vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 vaccination coverage among toddlers was extremely low. Parental vaccination status was a key factor associated with vaccination behavior. Improving communication about vaccine safety may be essential to support future pandemic preparedness.