Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice toward Varicella Vaccine among Families: A Systematic Review

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends implementing universal varicella vaccination in countries where varicella provides an important burden under conditions that can ensure reaching and sustaining high coverage of more than 80%. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in improving vaccine uptake and protecting children from varicella infection. Objective: This review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding varicella and its vaccination among parents and caregivers. Understanding these factors is important for identifying determinants of vaccine hesitancy and strategies to improve vaccination coverage. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using relevant keywords in ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, and SpringerLink for studies published between 2015 and 2024. Data from eligible studies were reported descriptively Results: Ten studies were included in the review. Six studies were conducted in high-income countries. Most participants were parents or expectant parents, and data were primarily collected through self-administered surveys. Overall, studies reported low levels of knowledge regarding varicella and its vaccination, while approximately half demonstrated positive attitudes toward vaccination. Several countries also showed a low varicella vaccination coverage. Factors most commonly associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practices included caregiver education level, information sources, personal beliefs, and healthcare provider recommendations. Conclusion: Caregivers generally demonstrated limited knowledge, moderately positive attitudes, and moderate vaccination coverage. Strengthening public health campaigns and healthcare communication regarding the risks of varicella may improve knowledge, attitudes, and vaccination practices.