Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Routine Maternal Vaccine Uptake

INTRODUCTION: This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on influenza and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine uptake in a pregnant, low-income population. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included women initiating prenatal care before (May-November 2019) or during the COVID-19 pandemic (May-November 2020) at two large Medicaid clinics. All patients entered prenatal care before 20 weeks of gestation and delivered full-term. Medical records were reviewed for vaccine uptake and demographic data. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to compare vaccination rates prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional analysis was performed to identify association of demographic factors with vaccine uptake. Institutional review board- approval was obtained for this study. RESULTS: A total of 939 patients were included, with 462 initiating care prior to and 477 initiating care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Influenza vaccination uptake was 78% (362/462) in the pre-pandemic group, significantly decreasing to 61% (291/477) in the pandemic group (P<.01;OR, 0.38;95% CI, 0.26-0.53). Tdap vaccination uptake was 85% (392/462) in the pre-pandemic group, significantly decreasing to 76% (361/477) in the pandemic group (P<.01;OR, 0.56;95% CI, 0.40-0.79). Unvaccinated patients were significantly more likely to be non-Hispanic Black patients when compared to Hispanic patients both pre-pandemic (P<.01;OR, 0.34;95% CI, 0.21-0.56) and during the pandemic (P<.01;OR, 0.24;95% CI, 0.15-0.38), while there was no significant difference in age or parity in relation to vaccination status. CONCLUSION: Routine vaccination uptake significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic in a low-income population of pregnant women, with decrease more pronounced on influenza vaccine than on Tdap vaccine uptake.

Research update: "Growing" sustainable horticulture farmers

Various extension programs across the country offer educational and practical opportunities for new and beginning farmers. In recent years, Louisiana has experienced a boom in horticultural farm businesses managed by new and beginning farmers. Though access to land and credit are often cited as two primary challenges that new and beginning farmers face, access to market channels and business management skills are also key to building sustainable farm businesses. Moreover, strong social networks where new and beginning farmers can freely exchange ideas, network, share resources, and provide trainings are essential to the development of new and beginning farmers. This research focuses primarily on horticulture farmers' perceptions of business management skills and risk management. We used data collected as a part of the evaluation program for the Grow Louisiana Beginning Farmer Training Program (Grow Louisiana), an extension program offered by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. Grow Louisiana is a partnership of academic, cooperative extension, and nonprofit organizations to train fruit and vegetable farmers with less than 10 years of experience on small to mid-size farms in Louisiana. Focused on the southeastern region of Louisiana, the program emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices and local food systems. The year-long program offers participants training in whole-farm planning and risk management based on the following principles: (i) sustainable agriculture and business practices, (ii) resource optimization, (iii) objective decision making, and (iv) efficient work practices. The program trained 16 farmers per year and apart from educational training, promotes networking and mentoring among farmers across the state. This study used a mixed methods approach to analyze program evaluation data from the 3-year program (2018-2021). The first year the program was offered in person, the second year moved to a hybrid model when measures were taken to address participant safety due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the third year was completed mostly online. Data were collected pre- and postprogram through needs assessments, interviews, and focus groups with participants. Findings add to existing literature and highlight the importance of business and marketing planning in the development and training of new and beginning farmers. Moreover, the study provides useful information for extension practices considering the variety of methods of delivery by year (i.e., in person, hybrid, online).

Research update: COVID-19 and marketing challenges for food producers in Louisiana

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the operations of many farm and food businesses across Louisiana. Producers had to adapt to changes or closures of market outlets, including farmers markets, farm-to-school programs, and restaurants. Using data collected from an online survey, this research examines pre- and post-pandemic marketing channels and challenges faced by food producers.