Factors influencing mothers’ decision to enroll their HIV-negative children in a hypothetical HIV vaccine trial

Abstract

Despite advances in preventive treatments for HIV, children continue to become infected with HIV. Research has investigated adult and adolescents’ willingness to participate in hypothetical HIV vaccine trials; however, maternal willingness to enroll their infants in such trials remains underexplored. Aim: This study explored the factors influencing mothers’ decision-making about enrolling their HIV negative infants in a hypothetical HIV vaccine trial. Methods: HIV infected and uninfected mothers (n = 22) were interviewed. Results: Several factors were identified as influencing the mothers’ decisions, including perceptions and knowledge of HIV and vaccines. Conclusion: Maternal concerns about protecting their infants from HIV were also identified and mothers indicated that they were eager to vaccinate their children. Insufficient information and reassurance regarding vaccine trial safety and efficacy influenced maternal reluctance to enroll their child.