Manitoba Immunization Study completed

Researchers from the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy in the Faculty of Medicine have completed The Manitoba Immunization Study, the most comprehensive analysis of Manitoba’s immunization programs ever performed. They looked at childhood and adult immunization rates in the province from April 1, 2000 to March 31, 2008, the impact of immunizations and the safety of vaccines.

The University of Manitoba research found immunization rates for two-year-old children in Manitoba were stable over the eight years studied. The universal program helps protect kids from a number of diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria and measles. Newly introduced vaccinations like chicken pox have already led to a decline in hospitalizations.

Factors that appear to influence the immunization rates for children are the size of a family, family income, the age of the mother and the ability to see the same healthcare provider regularly. Regional variations also appear to influence vaccination coverage rates in children. The study also found that generally children in northern communities are less likely to be vaccinated than those in the south of the province.

Researchers looked at shots for flu and pneumonia in adults with a specific focus on three groups: pregnant women and women with a newborn, people older than 64, and people with chronic illness like diabetes. Manitobans 65 and over have the highest rate of immunizations and people with chronic illness have higher immunization rates than those without illness. Flu immunization reduced hospitalization and mortality in those over 65.

The study recommended that Manitobans should get immunizations as a way of preventing disease.

Finally, the researchers noted that nothing in the report was found to link vaccinations with rare disorders like Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a concern that prevents some people from getting vaccinations.

The report can be downloaded here: http://mchp-appserv.cpe.umanitoba.ca/deliverablesList.html

For more information, contact: Jack Rach Communications Officer Manitoba Centre for Health Policy Phone: (204) 789-3669