Parental knowledge, attitude and behaviour of varicella and its vaccination in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Varicella is a childhood disease with potentially severe complications and has seen a significant reduction in its impact in countries such as the United States, Taiwan, and Hong Kong due to successful vaccination programs. However, vaccination efforts worldwide face challenges stemming from parental misconceptions and limited knowledge about the disease. Notably, Malaysia currently does not include varicella vaccination in its routine immunization schedule, making it a critical area for study. This research aims to explore parental knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to varicella vaccination, as well as their correlation with demographic factors and health beliefs. The overarching goal is to address the existing knowledge gap and improve its awareness in Malaysia, where varicella’s prevalence remains understudied. Materials and Methods: This study gathered data from 400 voluntary participants, collecting information on demographic backgrounds, knowledge levels, behaviours, and attitudes concerning varicella and its vaccination. Results: There was an overall 69% of positive vaccination behaviour. Health belief statements showed a statistically significant difference between the recommended vaccination and not recommended vaccination groups (p <0.05); and between three groups of knowledge level and their perception towards varicella and its vaccination (p <0.01). A higher knowledge level is associated with positive behaviour towards varicella vaccination. Low parental education, low household income, widow and higher number of children were predictors of antagonistic behaviour towards varicella vaccination (all p <0.05). Conclusion: This study underscores the need to include varicella vaccination in the Malaysia National Immunization Programme, particularly focusing on promoting varicella vaccination in schools. Such an initiative can help combat varicella and address the identified predictors of reluctance towards vaccination.