Search Results (389)

Honeybee populations are increasingly threatened by various environmental stressors, including pesticides, pathogens, and climate change. Emerging research highlights the vital role of pollen polyphenols in supporting honeybee health through a network of antioxidants, immune responses, and detoxification mechanisms. This review synthesizes current findings on the chemical diversity, bioactivity, and functional relevance of polyphenolic compounds in honeybee nutrition. Pollen polyphenols, which include flavonoids and phenolic acids, possess remarkably high antioxidant potential, up to 235 times greater than that of nectar. They also significantly increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes, immune system genes, and detoxification pathways such as cytochrome P450s and glutathione-S-transferases. These compounds also demonstrate antimicrobial effects against key pathogens and mitigate the toxic effects of pesticides. The content and composition of polyphenols vary seasonally and geographically, impacting the resilience of honeybee colonies. Field and laboratory studies confirm that polyphenol-rich diets improve survival, gland development, and stress resistance. Advanced analytical techniques, including metabolomics, have expanded our understanding of polyphenol profiles and their effects on honeybee physiology. However, knowledge gaps remain in pharmacokinetics and structure–function relationships. Integrating this evidence into conservation strategies and good beekeeping practices, such as habitat diversification and targeted feed supplementation, is crucial for maintaining honeybee health and ecosystem services in a rapidly changing environment. Full article

Background/Objectives: DTP3 (diphtheria–tetanus–pertussis vaccine, third dose) coverage is a key indicator of the strength and continuity of routine immunization programs, which demonstrably reduces the burden of infectious diseases globally. This study aims to assess trends in DTP3 vaccination coverage across Asian regions and countries from 2012 to 2023, focusing on changes associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: DTP3 vaccination data were obtained from official WHO/UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage (WUENIC) and analyzed using Joinpoint regression to detect statistically significant changes in vaccination trends. Data were grouped by five Asian subregions based on the UN geoscheme (Central, Eastern, Southeastern, Southern, and Western Asia), and trends were weighted using birth cohort sizes. The presence of joinpoints and annual percentage changes (APCs) was calculated, and potential pandemic-related disruptions were contextualized. Results: At the continental level, Asia experienced a modest 0.4% annual increase in DTP3 coverage between 2012 and 2023, with a significant joinpoint detected in 2018. Following this, Southeast Asia’s coverage declined at an annual rate of −4.32% before beginning to recover in 2021, while South Asia showed a similar pattern. Country-level analysis revealed significant heterogeneity, with a comparison between 2019 and 2023 showing profound post-pandemic declines in some nations, such as Lebanon (–21%) and Myanmar (–9.4%), while others, like Iraq and the Philippines, achieved substantial recoveries with coverage increasing by over 6 percentage points. These trends contrasted with persistent declines in fragile states (e.g., Afghanistan, Yemen) and sustained high coverage in others (e.g., Bangladesh, Israel). The pandemic, systemic weaknesses, emerging vaccine hesitancy, and misinformation were identified as key influences. Conclusions: There is progress in DTP3 coverage across Asia. There were pandemic-related disruptions, particularly in regions with fragile health systems. Strategies to address zero-dose and dropout children, improve service continuity, and counter misinformation are essential to meet immunization targets under the Immunization Agenda 2030. Full article

The growing adoption of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for urban parcel delivery highlights the need for efficient distribution center placement. Particularly in dense urban environments, obstacle avoidance usually increases real path distances beyond straight-line measurements. Considering these distance differences, this study first employs the Informed-RRT* algorithm with spatial indexing to calculate real UAV flight paths between locations. We use the real path distances instead of straight-line distances to determine service coverage areas in the distribution center layout model. In this model, we aim to minimize the total economic cost and maximize customer satisfaction, considering the service range, the balance between delivery capability and demand, and the constraints of the distribution mode. An immune-algorithm-enhanced genetic algorithm, the immune genetic algorithm, is used to solve the model, acquiring the distribution center layout. We conduct a simulation experiment in Shenzhen’s low-altitude airspace and compare the layout results between the real path distance criterion and the straight-line path distance criterion. The results show that using the real path distances instead of the straight-line distances leads to changes in distribution center layout, demonstrating the necessity of this framework. Full article

Background: Pharmacy technicians are increasingly involved in immunization services, enhancing vaccine accessibility and reducing pharmacies’ workload. This scoping review aims to (1) provide a comprehensive overview of pharmacy technicians’ involvement in immunization services across various healthcare settings and countries, and (2) conduct a comparative analysis of training curricula for pharmacy technicians on immunization. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O’Malley framework. A comprehensive search of the PubMed and Scopus databases was performed using keywords and MeSH terms such as “pharmacy technician(s)”, “immunization”, “vaccination”, “role”, and “involvement”. Studies included assessed pharmacy technicians’ roles in vaccine administration, training, and public health outcomes. Descriptive and thematic analyses were used to synthesize the findings. In addition, a supplementary analysis of immunization training curricula was conducted, reviewing programs from different countries to identify similarities, differences, and gaps in course structure, content, and delivery formats. Lastly, a comprehensive toolkit was developed, offering guidelines intended to facilitate the implementation of immunization training programs. Results: A total of 35 articles met the inclusion criteria, primarily from the United States of America (n = 30), Canada (n = 2), Ethiopia (n = 1), Denmark (n = 1) and United Kingdom (n = 1). The findings indicate that pharmacy technicians contribute significantly to vaccine administration, patient education, and workflow optimization, particularly in community pharmacies. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated their involvement in immunization programs. Key challenges include regulatory barriers, a lack of standardized training, and resistance from other healthcare professionals. Facilitators include legislative support (e.g., the PREP Act), structured training programs, and collaborative pharmacist–technician models. Conclusions: Pharmacy technicians can play a vital role in expanding immunization services, improving vaccine uptake, and reducing pharmacist workload. Addressing regulatory inconsistencies, enhancing training, and fostering interprofessional collaboration are crucial for their effective integration of immunization programs. Since immunization by pharmacy technicians is not yet allowed in many EU countries, this review will provide a foundational basis to address their potential to support the healthcare workforce and improve access to immunization services. Full article

Co-infections of Orthopoxviruses (OPVs), such as vaccinia virus (VACV) and monkeypox virus (MPXV), and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be associated with severe outcomes. Serro’s dairy region, located in Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, is an endemic area for VACV, where zoonotic outbreaks affect rural communities. This epidemiological context is especially relevant for at-risk populations, such as people living with HIV (PLHIV). This study aimed to assess the presence of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against OPV in PLHIV in this endemic setting. Serum samples were collected from 177 PLHIV in treatment at the specialized service between December 2021 and August 2022. VACV and MPXV NAbs were measured using the plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT) and VACV-infected cells. The overall occurrence of OPV NAbs was 27.7%. NAbs were higher in individuals born before 1980 (53.3%) than those born after 1980 (1.1%). Among anti-VACV-seropositive individuals, 40.8% also had MPXV NAbs, suggesting cross-immunity. These findings indicate the circulation of VACV in PLHIV and highlight the increased susceptibility to OPV infections among individuals born after the cessation of smallpox vaccination. The results reinforce the importance of continued surveillance of OPV, especially in endemic regions and vulnerable populations. Full article

Background: The number of women veterans has been rising steadily since the Gulf War and many assume the functions of their male counterparts. Women face unique obstacles in their service, and it is imperative that differences in physiology not be overlooked so as to provide better and appropriate care to our women in uniform. Despite this influx and incorporation of female talent, dedicated reports contrasting female and male veterans are rare, outside of specific psychological studies. We therefore attempt to contrast gut constituents, absorption, innate immune system, and nutritional differences to provide a comprehensive account of similarities and differences between female and male veterans, from our single-center perspective, as this has not been carried out previously. Herein, we obtained a detailed roster of commonly used biomedical tests and some novel entities to detect differences between female and male veterans. The objective of this study was to detect differences in the innate immune system and other ancillary test results to seek differences that may impact the health of female and male veterans differently. Methods: To contrast biochemical and sociomedical parameters in female and male veterans, we studied the data collected on 450 female veterans and contrasted them to a group of approximately 1642 males, sequentially from 1995 to 2022, all selected because of above-average risk for CRC. As part of this colorectal cancer (CRC) screening cross-sectional and longitudinal study, we also collected stool, urine, saliva, and serum specimens. We used ELISA testing to detect stool p87 shedding by the Adnab-9 monoclonal and urinary organ-specific antigen using the BAC18.1 monoclonal. We used the FERAD ratio (blood ferritin/fecal p87), a measure of the innate immune system to gauge the activity of the innate immune system (InImS) by dividing the denominator p87 (10% N-linked glycoprotein detected by ELISA) into the ferritin level (the enumerator, a common lab test to assess anemia). FERAD ratios have not been performed elsewhere despite past Adnab-9 commercial availability so we have had to auto-cite our published data where appropriate. Results: Many differences between female and males were detected. The most impressive differences were those of the InImS where males clearly had the higher numbers (54,957 ± 120,095) in contrast to a much lower level in females (28,621 ± 66,869), which was highly significantly different (p < 0.004). Mortality was higher in males than females (49.4% vs. 24.1%; OR 3.08 [2.40–3.94]; p < 0.0001). Stool p87, which is secreted by Paneth cells and may have a protective function, was lower in males (0.044 ± 0.083) but higher in females (0.063 ± 0.116; p < 0.031). Immunohistochemistry of the Paneth cell-fixed p87 antigen was also higher in females (in the descending colon and rectum). In contrast, male ferritin levels were significantly higher (206.3 ± 255.9 vs. 141.1 ± 211.00 ng/mL; p < 0.0006). Females were less likely to be diabetic (29.4 vs. 37.3%; OR 0.7 [0.55–0.90]; p < 0.006). Females were also more likely to use NSAIDs (14.7 vs. 10.7%, OR 1.08 [1.08–2.00]; p < 0.015). Females also had borderline less GI bleeding by fecal immune tests (FITs), with 13.2% as opposed to 18.2% in males (OR 0.68 [0.46–1.01]; p = 0.057), but were less inclined to have available flexible sigmoidoscopy (OR 0.68 [0.53–0.89]; p < 0.004). Females also had more GI symptomatology, a higher rate of smoking, and were significantly younger than their male counterparts. Conclusions: This study shows significant differences with multiple parameters in female and male veterans. Full article

Objectives: Scarce data are available regarding preventive medicine in forcibly displaced populations especially regarding non-communicable diseases like neoplasia, while even more limited data are available on Ukrainian refugees in Romania. To address this research gap, the present analysis was performed to investigate Ukrainian refugee women’s beliefs, attitudes, and opinions towards the Romanian and Ukrainian healthcare system in a comparison model while focusing on the HPV immunization rates and factors influencing the uptake for themselves and their children. Methods: Participants were recruited using the snowball sampling method through their General Practitioner (GP) and a health mediator. Results: In total, 105 women completed the online or physical survey. The mean age was 50 years. In total, 40% of women had not been to a gynecological check-up in 3 or more years, and more than 56% had never been screened. Only four were vaccinated against HPV, and none remembered which type of vaccine was dispensed or how many doses were utilized. The primary hindrances to accessing health services or immunization programs were language barriers, financial burdens, and a lack of information. Respondents’ general distrust of health systems and healthcare workforces were recurrent themes. Relationship status, living arrangements, and previous engagement in screening practices influenced immunization rates. Perceiving the healthcare officials as proactive concerning optional vaccination programs such as HPV immunization and actively receiving recommendations drove respondents to pursue vaccination. Conclusions: This analysis offers a foundational insight into the specific needs of refugee women. It can guide the development of effective public health interventions to improve health outcomes and vaccination rates among Ukrainian refugees in Romania. Tailored preventive campaigns with adequate native language information and prompts from medical experts in designated centers should be deployed to ensure inclusive tactics for vulnerable populations. Full article

Background: Pneumococcal vaccination rates in the United States (US) remain suboptimal, especially for adults aged 19 to 64 with high-risk medical conditions. Community-pharmacy-based immunization services increase vaccine access, particularly in rural areas. This study describes the provision of pneumococcal immunization services, assesses the processes used to identify and confirm patient eligibility, and determines barriers to immunization services in rural community pharmacies. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was emailed to members of the Rural Research Alliance of Community Pharmacies, located in the southeastern US. The survey assessed which pneumococcal vaccines were offered, age groups, prescription requirements, and how patient eligibility was determined. In addition, participants were asked to rate a series of patient-related and organizational barriers to pneumococcal vaccination. Results: Ninety-four pharmacies completed the survey, with most (96.8%) offering pneumococcal vaccines, most commonly PCV20 (95.6%). Most pharmacies vaccinated patients upon request (98.9%) or when patients presented with a prescription (82.4%), but few proactively contacted patients to schedule the vaccination (17.6%). Pharmacists most often administered pneumococcal vaccines to patients aged 65 and older and used patient age and immunization information systems to identify eligible patients. The most common patient-related barrier was the patient’s belief that they do not need the vaccine. The most common organizational barriers were inadequate reimbursements for vaccine administration and vaccine products. Conclusions: Pneumococcal vaccinations are commonly offered in rural community pharmacies, which play an important role in immunization access. With recent guideline changes to the age-based recommendation, there is an opportunity to optimize strategies to increase vaccine uptake. Full article

Introduction: In 2008, Mexico initiated its national HPV vaccination program targeting adolescent girls. This study aims to evaluate the current status of the program, analyzing trends in vaccine acquisition, administration, and coverage over a 16-year period. Materials and Methods: A retrospective longitudinal study was conducted using secondary data from 2008 to 2023. Official records from three major public health institutions—IMSS, ISSSTE, and SSA—were reviewed to assess HPV vaccine procurement and administration. Results: Significant fluctuations were identified in the number of doses acquired, administered, and the corresponding coverage rates. A marked decline was observed between 2019 and 2021, followed by a sharp increase in 2022 and 2023. Over the entire period, an estimated 6.8 million doses were not administered to the intended target population. Furthermore, 2.6 million doses were administered in excess of the number officially acquired, indicating possible discrepancies in data reporting or vaccine inventory management. Discussion: The findings revealed substantial inconsistencies in vaccine procurement, administration, and coverage across institutions. While IMSS and ISSSTE consistently reported coverage below the theoretical target, SSA occasionally exceeded expectations, potentially compensating for deficits elsewhere. Nevertheless, national coverage remained inadequate in several years, with notable disparities between institutions. These gaps highlight systemic weaknesses in program coordination, planning, and data transparency, contributing to millions of unvaccinated individuals. Conclusions: This study offers a comprehensive analysis of Mexico’s HPV vaccination program, uncovering critical irregularities in its implementation. Challenges include inaccurate target population estimation, inconsistencies between vaccine acquisition and administration, and limited data reliability. Despite some progress in recent years, particularly in the post-pandemic years, the program requires urgent restructuring. This includes implementing a national catch-up strategy, expanding vaccine eligibility, and strengthening surveillance systems to ensure equitable and effective coverage toward the elimination of cervical cancer. Full article

Background/Objectives: This retrospective cohort study compared well-child visits (WCVs) and immunization encounters from birth to age three among rural and urban South Carolina (SC) Medicaid-enrolled children with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). Methods: We applied logistic and Poisson regression models to examine associations between rural status and the number of WCVs, WCV adherence, and immunization encounters. Results: The sample included 833 urban and 161 rural children with NOWS born between 2006 and 2014. Significant differences existed between groups in the number of WCVs and immunization encounters each year from birth to age three (p = < 0.01 for all the comparisons). After covariate adjustment, rural compared to urban status was associated with decreased WCVs from birth to 11 months (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 0.85; 95% CI: 0.77–0.93) and 12 to 23 months (IRR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.69–0.93). Rural status was not significantly associated with decreased WCVs from 24 to 35 months (IRR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.63–1.03). Rural compared to urban status was associated with a 34% lower odds of WCV adherence from 12 to 23 months (odds ratio (OR): 0.66; 95% CI: 0.44–0.99). Furthermore, rural compared to urban status was associated with decreased immunization encounters from birth to 11 months (IRR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.52–0.69), 12 to 23 months (IRR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.50–0.71), and 24 to 35 months (IRR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.40–0.76). Conclusions: Rurality was associated with decreased WCVs and immunization encounters among children with a history of NOWS residing in SC. Policy interventions, including telehealth services and expanded Medicaid access, could improve WCV and immunization rates among these children. Full article

Background/Objectives: Maintaining high childhood vaccination coverage is essential to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. In Italy, Law No. 119/2017 introduced mandatory childhood immunizations, leading to significant improvements. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine services, potentially jeopardizing these gains. This study aimed to evaluate national and regional trends in vaccine coverage across three phases: post-mandate (2015–2016 vs. 2017–2019), pandemic (2017–2019 vs. 2020–2021), and post-pandemic recovery (2020–2021 vs. 2022–2023). Methods: National and regional administrative data on vaccination coverage at 24 months of age were obtained from the Italian Ministry of Health. Temporal trends were analyzed using Joinpoint regression to estimate annual percent changes (APCs), and absolute changes in coverage (Δ) were calculated across defined periods. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to assess associations between baseline coverage and subsequent changes. Results: After the 2017 mandate, coverage increased significantly for varicella (APC = +28.6%), MenB (+22.6%), and measles (+3.4%). Regionally, varicella coverage rose by up to +58.4% in Emilia-Romagna and measles by +11.1% in Campania. During the pandemic, coverage declined for polio (−2.4% in the South) and measles (−6.2% in Abruzzo), while MenB increased in regions with lower initial uptake (r = −0.918, p < 0.001). Post-pandemic, coverage rebounded, with varicella improving by +20.1% in central regions and measles by +13.9% in Abruzzo. A strong inverse correlation between baseline coverage and improvement was observed for varicella across all periods (r from −0.877 to −0.915). Conclusions: Mandatory vaccination policies led to substantial coverage improvements, and despite the disruption caused by the pandemic, recovery trends were observed for most vaccines. The consistent association between low baseline coverage and stronger gains highlights the resilience of the system, but also the ongoing need for regionally tailored strategies to reduce geographic disparities and ensure equitable immunization across Italy. Full article

Background: Immunization coverage in Nigeria is low, with many children missing out on important lifesaving vaccines. To enable a better understanding of contextual factors towards increasing uptake, we piloted a Decentralized Immunization Monitoring (DIM) approach in the Kumbotso local government area (LGA) of Kano state, Nigeria, to identify wards with low vaccination rates and understand why this is happening. The findings were used to improve routine immunization (RI) programs and reduce the number of unvaccinated children and children yet to receive their first dose of diphtheria–pertussis–tetanus (DPT) vaccine, referred to as Zero-Dose children (ZD). Methods: This study adopted a cross-sectional design approach using the Behavioural and Social Drivers of Vaccination (BeSD) framework and the Lot Quality Assurance Sampling (LQAS). The study population comprised caregivers of children aged 0–11 months and 12–23 months across the 11 wards in Kumbotso District, Kano State, Nigeria, using a segmentation sampling approach. The study covered 209 settlements selected using probability proportionate to size (PPS) sampling from the wards. Univariate and bivariate analyses were performed to show patterns and relations across variables. Results: Out of 418 caregivers surveyed, 98.1% were female. Delayed vaccination was experienced by 21.9% of children aged 4.5–11 months, while the prevalence of ZD was estimated at 26.8% amongst the older cohort (12–23 months). A total of 71.4% of the delayed group and 89.1% of the ZD group remained unvaccinated. Caregiver education, rural residence, and home births correlated with delayed/ZD status (p < 0.05). Logistic regression associated higher caregiver education with reduced delayed vaccination odds (OR:0.34, p < 0.001) and urban residence with lower ZD odds (OR:1.89, p = 0.036). The antigen coverages of BCG (81.5%), DPT3 (63.6%), and measles 1 (59.7%) all surpassed the national dropout thresholds. Kumbotso, Unguwar Rimi, and Kureken Sani wards were all identified as underperforming and therefore targeted for intervention. Negative vaccine perceptions (50% delayed, 53.6% ZD) and distrust in health workers (46.4% delayed, 48.2% ZD) were significant barriers, though the caregiver intent to vaccinate was protective (OR: 0.27, p < 0.001). The cost of accessing immunization services appeared to have a minor effect on coverage, as the majority of caregivers of delayed and ZD children reported spending less than 200 Naira (equivalent to USD 0.15) on transport. Conclusions: This pilot study highlighted the utility of LQAS and BeSD in identifying low-performing wards, barriers, and routine immunization gaps. Barriers included low caregiver education, rural residence, and negative vaccine perceptions/safety. Caregiver education and urban residence were protective factors against delayed and ZD vaccination, suggesting social and systemic barriers, particularly in rural and less educated populations. Antigen-specific coverage showed disparities, with dropouts for multi-dose vaccines exceeding the national thresholds of 10%. Targeted measures addressing education, trust, and systemic issues are needed. Findings emphasize decentralized monitoring, community engagement, and context-specific strategies to reduce ZD children and ensure equitable vaccination in Nigeria. Full article

Background: Tetanus is a vaccine-preventable disease, and therefore vaccination of women of reproductive age or during pregnancy is recommended alongside childhood tetanus vaccination. Gender-related factors related to social empowerment have been established as determinants of health service utilization; however, these social determinants have not yet been explored directly with tetanus vaccination. In response, the aim of this study was to assess overall and country-specific gender-related barriers to maternal tetanus vaccine coverage. Methods: We used data from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) in 39 countries implemented between 2013 and 2022. Women’s empowerment was measured through three domains of the Survey-based Women’s emPowERment index (SWPER), as well as other gender-related variables. To assess the association between measures of women’s empowerment and gender-related factors and maternal tetanus immunization coverage, we used multilevel logistic models with pooled data from the 39 countries to analyze overall patterns, and we used multivariable logistic regression for each country-specific dataset to analyze country-level associations. Results: There were notable variations in the factors associated with tetanus vaccination across countries. Overall, we observed that higher levels of women’s empowerment, as measured through social independence and decision-making autonomy using the SWPER index, were associated with higher odds of maternal tetanus protection, with adjusted odds ratios of 1.23 (95%CI: 1.10–1.37) and 1.20 (95%CI: 1.02–1.40), respectively. However, women’s empowerment related to attitude to violence was not. Higher household wealth was also associated with higher odds of maternal tetanus protection overall. Conclusions: Women’s empowerment can improve the uptake of maternal tetanus vaccine. Addressing gender-related barriers may enhance vaccination coverage and contribute to the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus as a public health problem. However, these barriers vary from country to country, necessitating country-specific investigations to formulate tailored recommendations. Full article

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women and one of the most emotionally distressing diagnoses. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic psychological stress may influence cancer progression via neuroendocrine and immune mechanisms. This rapid narrative review explores three key arguments for integrating psycho-oncologists into the multidisciplinary care of breast cancer patients: (1) early detection and reduction of psychological distress, (2) improvement of treatment adherence, and (3) enhancement of quality of life through personalized psychological interventions. Materials and Methods: The review was conducted through comprehensive searches in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2025. Inclusion criteria comprised randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and theoretical papers. Of 246 identified articles, 50 met the inclusion criteria. Results: Selected studies show that psycho-oncological interventions—including cognitive–behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, narrative therapy, and guided imagery—significantly reduce anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence. These approaches improve adherence to endocrine therapy and chemotherapy, enhance emotional resilience, and promote overall well-being. Also, recent research concepts emphasize the role of psycho-oncologists in encouraging post-traumatic growth and helping patients redefine cancer as an opportunity for transformation. Conclusions: Integrating psycho-oncologists into standard breast cancer care improves psychological and clinical outcomes. By addressing emotional distress, strengthening coping mechanisms, and supporting existential resilience, psycho-oncologists contribute to a holistic, patient-centered model of oncology care. Wider implementation of psycho-oncological services is warranted as a core component of comprehensive cancer management. Full article

Background: Maternal vaccination is a critical primary preventive approach and an integral part of life-course immunization strategy, influencing the infection-associated morbidity and mortality in pregnant women, foetuses, and young infants. Despite clear guidelines for the administration of vaccines against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), influenza, and COVID-19 during pregnancy, maternal vaccination rates remain suboptimal in Ireland as per the National Immunisation Office of the Health Service Executive (HSE). Aim: This review explores the prevailing status, uptake factors, and maternal immunization-specific vaccine hesitancy in Ireland. Method: A scoping review was conducted, searching nine electronic databases, including the Irish health research repository Lenus. The search strategy utilised a Population–Concept–Context framework (pregnant women—vaccine uptake/hesitancy—Ireland). Key factors identified and categorised according to the 5A framework: access, affordability, awareness, acceptance, and activation. Results: Searches yielded 2457 articles, and 12 eligible studies were included for review. Influencing factors were identified in each of the 5A dimensions, with the majority relating to acceptance and awareness. Positively associated factors included healthcare provider (HCP) recommendation and knowledge of vaccine safety. Potential antenatal barriers were maternal lack of knowledge of vaccine-preventable illness severity, infection risks, and vaccine safety concerns. A pregnant woman’s primary motivation for antenatal immunization was protection of her infant; however, the reluctance of HCPs to prescribe all recommended antenatal vaccines, inadequate immunization-specific discussion during antenatal consultations, and suboptimal knowledge of pregnancy-specific vaccine safety hampered potential positive influences. The Irish national immunization policy was a facilitator of affordability. Activation can be achieved through public health awareness campaigns and interdisciplinary promotion of maternal vaccination uptake. Conclusions: Maternal vaccination uptake in Ireland remains suboptimal, and a coordinated, targeted approach updating HCP recommendations, enhancing maternal awareness, and highlighting vaccine safety in pregnancy would be required to meet the life-course immunization goals recommended by WHO. By adopting a life-course immunization approach for healthy living, with maternal vaccination as the pivotal central point, vaccination programmes could close immunity gaps at various life stages. Full article