Variations in vaccination coverage by social care need: a scoping review

Abstract

Background: vaccination rates vary in the UK population but are vital in maintaining public health. Social care needs (SCN) refer to the promotion of independence and wellbeing, particularly in those who may have a disability, be socially isolated, or endure economic stress. Variations in SCN may impact vaccine uptake, thereby affecting vaccination coverage, but this is poorly understood. 

Aim: we aim in our study to collate and interpret existing evidence on the variations in vaccination coverage among individuals with SCN. Methods Searches were conducted using Medline, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and Bielefeld Academic Search Engine (BASE) from inception to June 27, 2024. Grey literature was also searched. Two authors independently screened and extracted relevant papers, with disagreements resolved by a third author. The search terms used included: “vaccination AND social need AND immunisation”, and variations of these terms. 

Results: we identified 606 articles with 32 meeting the inclusion criteria following full-text screening. Studies originated from various regions, with most conducted in the USA. Key SCN identified as barriers to vaccination included access issues, limited information, social vulnerability, and economic deprivation. Vaccines most affected included influenza, pneumonia, and HPV. 

Conclusions: our review collated evidence on vaccination uptake variations in relation to SCN, finding a limited body of research, primarily from the USA. Most studies indicated lower vaccine uptake among individuals with SCN. Greater understanding of these variations could inform improved vaccination uptake, especially in high-risk groups. Further research is needed to identify effective interventions to address these disparities in vaccination coverage.

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