Immunisation practices of paediatric oncologists: An Australasian survey

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this survey was to identify the current practices of paediatric oncologists in Australia and New Zealand regarding the immunisation of children treated for cancer. Methods: The survey was a nine-part questionnaire of current immunisation practices emailed to all paediatric oncologists practising in Australia (nine centres) and New Zealand (three centres) in June 2006. Results: Overall response rate was 82% (37 of 45 oncologists). Ninety-four per cent of respondents would recommend commencing 'booster' vaccinations at 6 months post completion of chemotherapy, in keeping with the current guidelines. Seventy-four per cent would recommend varicella vaccination. Intensity of the c..