Collection of routine national seasonal influenza vaccine coverage data from GP practices in England using a web-based collection system.

This paper describes a web-based system developed to collect data on influenza (flu) vaccine uptake in near real time during the flu season in England. Data are collected from all GP practices providing the immunisation programme. Data are submitted either monthly or weekly on-line to a website using manual, automated and semi-automated methods.

Parental response to the introduction of a vaccine against human papilloma virus.

The introduction of a vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus that is the causal factor of at least 95% of invasive cervical cancer, could significantly reduce the number of cases of cervical cancer occurring in the UK each year. To ensure that individuals are protected before onset of sexual activity, it is likely that the vaccine will be offered to children around 10 years of age. It is important that parents' attitudes to HPV vaccination are taken into account, particularly as the subject relates to sexual health issues.

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine uptake in England, 1989-2003, prior to the introduction of a vaccination programme for older adults.

Objective: Following the licensure of 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (23vPPV) in 1989, a risk-group-only immunization policy was implemented in 1992 in England. The PPV programme was extended in 2003 to include all individuals 65 years and over. In England, this was phased in over 3 years.

Tracking mothers attitudes to childhood immunisation 1991-2001.

This report presents the findings from a series of 20 surveys carried out between 1991 and 2001. The main objectives of the research were to: This unique body of more than 15,000 interviews was conducted as part of a routine programme of research supporting the national immunisation programme in England. These surveys show that the public wants clarity, consistency, factual information and openness from those delivering immunisation services.