Understanding factors contributing to vaccination underutilization among Jewish ultra-orthodox communities in Israel: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the underutilization of childhood and school-age immunizations among parents within the Jewish Ultra-Orthodox community in Israel. It identifies socio-demographic, attitudinal, and belief-related risk factors that affect vaccination decisions.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 369 Jewish Orthodox parents in Israel, using structured questionnaires distributed through various community channels.

METHODS

Data on socio-demographic variables, vaccination status, and intentions were collected. Attitudinal assessments included the VAX Scale and the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale.

RESULTS

The proportion of fully vaccinated children was 46.3 % for childhood diseases and 64.2 % for school-age vaccinations. Flu vaccination rates were significantly lower, with only 19.2 % of parents and 15.2 % of children receiving flu shots. Key factors contributing to vaccine underutilization include large family size, lower socioeconomic and educational levels, reliance on the internet for health information, and the absence of media technology at home. Geographical disparities were notable, especially in the Jerusalem District, which demonstrated lower vaccination uptake, and among different Orthodox streams, with the Modern stream showing higher vaccination rates compared to the Lithuanian, Sephardic, and Hasidic streams. The VAX scale and Health-Related Locus of Control measures revealed that attitudinal factors significantly impacted vaccination decisions, such as mistrust in vaccine benefits, preference for natural immunity, and reliance on religious beliefs.

CONCLUSIONS

To address vaccination disparities, targeted interventions should consider cultural and logistical barriers, engaging community leaders and offering culturally sensitive education to improve uptake within the Jewish ultra-Orthodox community.