Safety and efficacy of vaccinations in patients from high-risk groups: new challenges in the era of vaccine hesitancy

Abstract

Introduction. Vaccinations are one of the most effective medical interventions that protect people against infectious diseases. It should be noted that a new vaccine licensing is always preceded by clinical trials assessing its safety and efficacy. Anti-vaccine propaganda carried out by vaccination opponents has become an international problem with a global reach. Aim. To review the literature on vaccinations of patients from high-risk groups. Material and methods. A literature review of the following databases has been conducted: EBSCO, PubMed, Science Direct, and Springer Link. Results. High-risk groups in the paediatric population include pre-term born infants, patients after stem cell transplantations, children with allergies and other chronic diseases. Vaccinations in the examined groups are generally safe and are an effective method of preventing infections. Conclusion. At a time when the level of vaccine skepticism is high and the epidemiological situation of many diseases is unstable, patients who are more susceptible to infection are particularly endangered. High level of knowledge of health care professionals and their personal positive attitude towards vaccinations are important for improving the vaccination coverage rates. In the light of measles epidemic outbreaks and an almost geometric increase in the number of pertussis cases noted recently, actions are needed to achieve herd immunity.