658Assessment of Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitudes Towards Pertussis and Pertussis Immunization Strategies in Post-Partum Mothers

Background: Given increases in the incidence of pertussis, protective strategies for young infants are used (cocooning, maternal immunization), but there is limited data regarding two key areas for implementation knowledge of pertussis in pregnant women, and their willingness to participate in various preventative campaigns. With increasing rates of pertussis in Manitoba and anticipating future public health needs should Manitoba move toward a maternal immunization strategy, we surveyed post-partum women on their knowledge and beliefs of infant pertussis and prevention strategies. Methods: Women were interviewed at the two obstetrical centers in Winnipeg. A survey was developed using the Health Belief Model, assessing knowledge level about pertussis, beliefs and attitudes towards pertussis immunizations, and willingness to participate in two protective strategies (thirdtrimester or mother only post-partum immunization). There was then an educational portion about pertussis and follow-up questions to determine whether this had changed their views. Results: Of 143 women surveyed over 8 months, 67% had a moderate knowledge score regarding pertussis and its risks; 55% of participants considered Tdap (tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis) to be safe. Only 5% of women reported having discussed pertussis with their physician during their pregnancy. Fifty-seven percent of participants would have agreed to receive Tdap immediately post-partum, and 65% would consider Tdap in the third trimester of a subsequent pregnancy. There was a significant link between pertussis knowledge levels and intent to vaccinate (p Results Conclusions References Table 1: Demographic characteristics of interviewed women (n = 143) Had received Tdap booster 2% yes 92% no 5% unsure Source of prenatal care 2% did not receive prenatal care 22% received prenatal care from a Family Doctor 66% received prenatal care from an OBGYN specialist 9% received prenatal care from a Nurse Practitioner 1% received prenatal care from a Midwife Did the prenatal care provider talk about pertussis? 2% talked about pertussis without being asked by the patient 3% talked about pertussis after being asked by the patient 92% did not talk about pertussis with the patient 3% of patients were not sure or could not recall