ATTITUDES AND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT IMMUNIZATION AMONG UKRAINIAN REFUGEE MOTHERS

Background Migration flows of people seeking refuge in other countries for various reasons are a prerequisite for public health problems to emerge. The aim of the study was to analyze the socio-demographic profile of Ukrainian refugee mothers residing in Bulgaria and their attitudes towards immunizations. Material and methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 124 Ukrainian citizens (women residing with their children as refugees on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria) in February 2025. A sociological survey regarding socio-demographic indicators and attitudes and knowledge about immunizations was conducted. Results The surveyed group of Ukrainian citizens consisted of women with an average age of 33 years, ranging between 19 and 49 years (sd±7.083), with higher education – 86 (69.35%), mostly having one child in the family – 71 (57.26%), who received temporary protection in Bulgaria. The children they live with in our country are of preschool and school age, which requires their immunization according to the Immunization Schedule of Bulgaria. Mothers have good knowledge about the role of immunization for the health of their children – 109 (87.90%), but 55 (44.35%) express doubts about the quality and effect of vaccines. Conclusions Migration has posed a challenge to public health in Bulgaria.