BACKGROUND

This cross-sectional survey investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and coverage of recommended vaccinations among a random sample of patients with chronic medical conditions, at higher risk of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), in Italy.

METHODS

The survey was conducted via telephone-based interviews.

RESULTS

Multinomial regression analysis showed that the patients who believed that VPDs were severe were more likely to know one recommended vaccination; those who believed that VPDs were severe and those who were advised from a general practitioner (GP) were more likely to know two vaccinations; those who were older, graduated, with more time from diagnosis, who believed that VPDs were severe, who did not need additional information, and who were advised from a GP were more likely to know three or four vaccinations. Patients who knew at least one vaccination, who perceived themselves at risk, and who were advised from a GP were more likely to have received one vaccination; those who knew more than one vaccination and who were advised from a GP were more likely to receive two or three vaccinations. Among the unvaccinated, patients who were unmarried/not cohabiting, those who needed information, and who believed that vaccinations were useful and safe were more willing to receive the recommended vaccinations.

CONCLUSIONS

Educational interventions are needed to improve the adherence of individuals with chronic medical conditions.