Pediatric Two-Dose Influenza Vaccination Series: Impact of Text Message Reminders on Adherence to Second Dose

Abstract

Introduction: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children 6 months to 9 years of age receive a two-dose series of the influenza immunization in the same influenza season. A quality improvement project was performed at a pediatric office in eastern North Carolina that had a low rate of adherence for the second influenza vaccine. Methodology: The project focused on children from age 6 months to 24 months who had not received a two-dose series of the influenza immunization. Text message reminders were used to improve adherence rates. Data from the same eight-week period in 2016 and 2017 was collected and compared to determine if there was improvement in the adherence rates. Results: Out of the patients reviewed during the eight-week period in 2016, 85 patients were eligible for the second dose of the influenza immunization and 9 returned for the second dose. In 2017, out of the patients reviewed, 91 patients were eligible for the second dose of the influenza immunization and 35 returned. Of those that returned, 28 had received the text message reminder. Discussion: From 2016 to 2017 there was an improvement in adherence to the two-dose influenza immunization series. The rate of adherence went from 10.6% to 38.5% respectively. The biggest problem with non-adherence was related to staff compliance with the text message reminders. Conclusion: Text message reminders improved the rate of adherence to the two-dose series of influenza immunization. Improved staff education is needed with future projects.