Publications by authors named "M W Kervin"

The purpose of this study was to better understand barriers and enabling conditions for HPV vaccination in school-based vaccination programs in Canada. Semi-structured interviews were conducted by telephone or in person with parents, nurses, and school staff (n = 50) in three Canadian provinces. Interviews explored views on HPV and HPV vaccination, strengths and weaknesses of the school-based HPV vaccination programs and proposed interventions to increase uptake.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF
Article Synopsis
  • The COVID-19 pandemic worsened existing inequalities, especially for people experiencing homelessness (PEH), highlighting the need for effective housing policies as a health defense.
  • Service providers in Nova Scotia faced challenges in implementing outbreak control measures but developed innovative solutions like pop-up shelters and dedicated phone lines to assist PEH.
  • The study emphasizes the necessity for adaptable and specific policies to better support service providers and PEH during health crises, particularly in rural areas with unique challenges.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: Live attenuated varicella vaccine (LAVV) has historically been contraindicated in children who are immunocompromised due to solid organ transplant (SOT) because of safety concerns. Recently, clinical guidelines were developed that support post-transplant varicella vaccination in selected SOT recipients based on emerging evidence of LAVV safety. This qualitative study sought to explore barriers and facilitators to implementing the new guidelines, as well as acceptability of LAVV among healthcare providers (HCPs) and parents.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

We explored perceptions of healthcare providers in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick about pharmacists as immunizers. Pharmacists' scopes of practice are increasingly broadening to include immunization, and providers and policymakers may find meaning in the lessons we learned. Invitations to participate in our online survey were circulated by professional associations, health authorities, and in social media posts.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Vaccine coverage is below desired levels in Canada, despite National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommendations. One solution to improve coverage is to offer vaccines in pharmacies. We explore the awareness, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of the general public in four communities in Nova Scotia (NS) and New Brunswick (NB) about the changing role of pharmacists as immunizers.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF