Children's perceptions of influenza illness and preferences for influenza vaccine.

Introduction: In this qualitative study we explored children's perceptions of influenza, preferences for influenza vaccines, and ability to understand "risk" of vaccine adverse effects and different attributes between injectable and intranasal vaccines.

Method: In-person, semi-structured interviews were conducted among 28 U.S. children aged 6 through 12 years.

Results: Many children understood the concept of influenza illness and believed vaccination was important. Efficacy, adverse effects, and mode of administration affected their preferences for influenza vaccines. Children 8 years of age and older were able to consider multiple attributes when selecting between hypothetical vaccines, and their responses were consistent with their previously stated preferences for individual attributes. Most children would prefer a nasal spray over a shot vaccine when all other vaccine attributes were equal.

Discussion: Efficacy, adverse effects, and mode of administration were important factors in children's preferences for influenza vaccine. Children as young as 8 years of age appeared to understand vaccine "risk" and were able to consider multiple attributes simultaneously when choosing between vaccine alternatives.