P-420: Vaccination coverage in children with type 1 diabetes and its association with parental knowledge and opinions, and pediatricians’ attitudes
M Polewka, W Skibowska, S Kubera, M Kowalska, P Jarosz-Chobot, E RusakAbstract
Introduction
Children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are at increased risk of infections and their metabolic complications. Prevention depends on adherence to immunization schedules, which in children relies on their guardians. With rising vaccine refusals in Poland, assessment of coverage in high-risk groups is warranted.
Objectives
To assess the implementation of mandatory and recommended vaccinations in children with T1DM and to analyse parental attitudes, knowledge, and experiences with pediatric care in relation to vaccination decisions.
Methods
Data were collected at the regional diabetes unit at Upper Silesian Child Health Centre in Katowice between June and October 2025. An anonymous questionnaire included demographic data and questions on vaccination status, reasons for non-compliance, pediatric care, and parental opinions.
Results
The study included 112 guardians of children with T1DM aged <18 years, with disease duration >1 year. Most respondents (70.5%) supported vaccinations; 6.3% were skeptical and 23.2% undecided. Coverage for mandatory vaccinations was 95.5%, and for recommended vaccinations 53.6%. Among vaccine opponents, only 57.1% of children completed all mandatory vaccines. The main reasons for declining recommended vaccines were lack of physician information (32.2%) and insufficient knowledge (22.6%). Awareness significantly improved uptake, reaching 100% among parents aware of PTD and ISPAD recommendations. Most pediatricians did not inquire about HbA1c before vaccination (60.7%), did not question the need for vaccination (92%), and did not require diabetologist certification (88.4%).
Conclusions
Mandatory vaccination coverage in children with T1DM is high; however, uptake of recommended vaccines remains suboptimal. Enhanced parental education and improved communication by healthcare professionals are essential. Further studies are needed to identify which recommended vaccines are most often omitted.