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Domaradzki J, Jabkowski P, Walkowiak D. Investigating Beliefs in Anti-Vax Conspiracy Theories among Medical Students. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:359. [PMID: 38675741 PMCID: PMC11054095 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
While the doctors' role in immunization is essential, their lack of knowledge or vaccine hesitancy may affect their ability to communicate effectively and educate patients about vaccination, vaccine hesitancy, and vaccine conspiracy theories. This, in turn, may hinder health policy aimed at fighting infectious diseases. Vaccine hesitancy is prevalent not only among the general population but also among healthcare workers; thus, this study is aimed at assessing future doctors' attitudes towards anti-vax conspiracy theories. A total of 441 medical students at Poznan University of Medical Sciences completed a web-based survey designed to explore their attitudes toward the six most prevalent anti-vaccine conspiracy theories. The survey showed that although over 97% of future doctors support vaccinations as an effective form of fighting infectious diseases, and 80% did not believe in any anti-vax conspiracy theory, a significant fraction of 20% of medical students either believed in at least one such theory or were unsure. It has also shown that male and younger students who had not received a flu vaccination and defined themselves as politically right-wing or conservative and religious were more likely to believe in anti-vax conspiracy theories. Our data suggest that, in order to overcome medical students' ambivalent attitudes towards anti-vax conspiracy theories, they should receive more education about the importance of vaccination in preventing disease and about effective ways to combat vaccine hesitancy and anti-vax conspiracy theories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 7, 60-806 Poznań, Poland
| | - Piotr Jabkowski
- Faculty of Sociology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 60-568 Poznań, Poland
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-356 Poznań, Poland
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2
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González-Nuevo C, Postigo Á, González-Menéndez A, Alonso-Pérez F, Cuesta M, González-Pando D. Professional quality of life and fear of COVID-19 among Spanish nurses: A longitudinal repeated cross-sectional study. J Clin Nurs 2024; 33:357-367. [PMID: 36919674 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM AND OBJECTIVES To evaluate changes in compassion fatigue (CF), burnout (BO), compassion satisfaction (CS) and fear of COVID-19 among Spanish nurses by comparing two assessment points: before and after the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has produced a great impact in healthcare worker's professional quality of life, especially among nurses. CF, BO and fear of COVID-19 decisively affect the care provided by nurses and put them at risk for mental health problems, so longitudinal studies are essential. DESIGN A repeated cross-sectional design was carried out with a time-lapse of 12 months. METHODS A total of 439 registered nurses in December 2020 and 410 in December 2021 participated in this study through an online survey. Data were collected using the Professional Quality of Life Questionnaire and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. Occupational and sociodemographic variables were also analysed. This article adheres to the STROBE guidelines for the reporting of observational studies. RESULTS The fear of COVID-19 has not been reduced among nurses. The levels of BO remain stable and continue to be high in half of the professionals. CF has been reduced with a small effect size (d = 0.30), while CS has also decreased (d = 0.30). Positive correlations were found in both assessment points between fear of COVID-19 and BO (r = .44, p ≤ .001; r = .41, p ≤ .001) and also between fear of COVID and CF (r = .57, p ≤ .001; r = .50, p ≤ .001). Negative correlations between fear and CS were also found (r = - .16, p = .001; r = - .22, p ≤ .001). RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Programmes to reduce fear of COVID-19, BO and CF are needed to improve mental health and to prevent psychological distress among nurses, as well as to increase CS and preserve the productivity and quality of nursing care. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION The nurses collaborated by participating in the present study anonymously and disinterestedly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Álvaro Postigo
- Department of Psychology, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Fernando Alonso-Pérez
- Faculty of Nursing of Gijón, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Institute of Health Research of the Principality of Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - David González-Pando
- Faculty of Nursing of Gijón, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Institute of Health Research of the Principality of Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
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3
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Pandher R, Bilszta JLC. Novel COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and acceptance, and associated factors, amongst medical students: a scoping review. MEDICAL EDUCATION ONLINE 2023; 28:2175620. [PMID: 36788502 PMCID: PMC9930839 DOI: 10.1080/10872981.2023.2175620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Medical students are likely to be exposed to COVID-19 patients so achieving high vaccination coverage rates for this group of healthcare workers is important, as is their potential as vaccination role models. The aim of this scoping review was to evaluate the current literature to determine the rates of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and acceptance, and associated factors, amongst medical students. Systematic searches of the Medline Ovid, Embase, PubMed, and Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC) online databases was conducted for relevant articles with keywords: 'COVID-19', 'vaccine hesitancy & acceptance' and 'medical students'. Articles were included for review if they reported the rates of vaccine hesitancy and acceptance, and associated factors, amongst medical students. Of the 258 articles identified, 52 met the inclusion criteria and underwent full-text review. Rates of vaccine hesitancy ranged from 5.4-86.7%, with generally positive attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination. The main factors associated with vaccine hesitancy were concerns about the safety and efficacy of vaccines due to their accelerated development, being a pre-clinical medical student, and low perceived personal risk of COVID-19 infection. Inconsistencies were found for the influence of gender on attitudes towards vaccinations. Previous vaccination behaviours were predictive of willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Knowledge about COVID-19 vaccinations and their importance was found to be deficient amongst vaccine hesitant medical students. Generally, medical students express low levels of vaccine hesitancy. However, due to the variability in the factors associated with vaccine hesitancy across different populations and the dynamic and contextual nature of hesitancy, it is recommended that vaccination intent and associated attitudes are monitored on a longitudinal basis. It is important to map vaccine hesitancy at a local level to allow medical schools to develop strategies to encourage vaccination specific to their school's needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Pandher
- Department of Medical Education, Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Justin L C Bilszta
- Department of Medical Education, Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Chaufan C. Is Covid-19 "vaccine uptake" in postsecondary education a "problem"? A critical policy inquiry. Health (London) 2023:13634593231204169. [PMID: 37968946 DOI: 10.1177/13634593231204169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Since the launch of the Covid-19 global vaccination campaign, postsecondary institutions have strongly promoted vaccination, often through mandates, and the academic literature has identified "vaccine uptake" among postsecondary students as a problem deserving monitoring, research, and intervention. However, with the admission that vaccines do not stop viral spread, that older-age and co-morbidities are major determinants of poor outcomes, and that many vaccine side effects disproportionately affect the young, it cannot be assumed that a risk-benefit analysis favors vaccinating postsecondary students. Drawing from critical policy studies, I appraise the literature on Covid-19 vaccine uptake in postsecondary education. I find that this literature reflects the "scientific consensus," hardly acknowledging contradictory medical evidence, ignoring coercive elements underlying "vaccine acceptance," and neglecting ethical tensions built into the very design of vaccination policies. I discuss potential explanations for my findings, and their implications for academia's role in society in the COVID-19 era and beyond.
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Choi J, Ryu JG. COVID-19 vaccination intention among nursing, medical, and dental students: A systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2253600. [PMID: 37732552 PMCID: PMC10515672 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2253600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The introduction of the COVID-19 vaccine amidst the pandemic has heralded a paradigm shift. Healthcare students in nursing, medicine, and dentistry must have positive attitudes owing to their future role in vaccine recommendations to the public and patients. This meta-regression analysis assessed the differences in COVID-19 vaccination intention (VI) of nursing, medical, and dental students. Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Korean MBASE were searched for eligible studies. Quality was assessed by the Joanna Briggs Institute's quality appraisal. Forty-one studies were included in the final analysis, and the estimation of pooled prevalence (68%) and relevant factors were assessed. Dental students were found to have the lowest VI (57%), which significantly (p = .018) differed from that of nursing students (64%). Countries in South-East Asia and those with high income levels were found to have high VI. Therefore, global vaccine programs for healthcare students should be prepared considering their geographical and economic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongrim Choi
- College of Nursing, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Geum Ryu
- College of Nursing, Chodang University, Muan, Republic of Korea
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Alexandrou R, Kyprianidou M, Photiou G, Kassianos AP, Giannakou K. Factors associated with perceived fear of future pandemics and/or epidemics: a cross-sectional study in Cyprus. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12194. [PMID: 37500807 PMCID: PMC10374585 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39381-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to understand the levels of fear experienced by individuals regarding future pandemics and/or epidemics among the general population of Cyprus and comprehensively examine the diverse factors that influence this perceived fear. The cross-sectional study was conducted from October 1st, 2022, to February 19th, 2023. A proportionate quota sampling method was used for the recruitment, by recruiting a fixed number of participants from each age group, sex, and place of residence. The study collected information on sociodemographic and health-related characteristics, health literacy, trust, COVID-19 vaccination information, and perceived fear of future epidemics and/or pandemics using a self-administered questionnaire. The survey included 1075 participants, with 53.7% of them reporting fear of future pandemics. Logistic regression analysis revealed that women (OR = 2.37, 95% CI 1.78, 3.16) and individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 (OR = 1.57, 95% CI 1.02, 2.43) were significantly more likely to experience fear of future pandemics. Moreover, higher levels of trust (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 1.02, 1.06) and higher health literacy (OR = 1.05, 95% CI 1.03, 1.08) were associated with an increased likelihood of fearing future pandemics. Conversely, unemployment (OR = 0.30, 95% CI 0.13, 0.65) and having a postgraduate education decreased the likelihood of fearing future pandemics (OR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.34, 0.90). The linear regression model revealed that older age (β = - 0.10, 95% CI - 0.14, - 0.05) was negatively associated with a higher score of fear regarding future pandemics. Conversely, being in a vulnerable group (β = 2.02, 95% CI 0.75, 3.28) and having at least one chronic disease (β = 1.76, 95% CI 0.68, 2.84) showed positive associations with increased fear of future epidemics and/or pandemics. The findings emphasize the need for relevant authorities to prioritize mental health and disseminate information in a manner that avoids spreading fear and panic, particularly among vulnerable population groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Alexandrou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Maria Kyprianidou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Galatia Photiou
- Cyprus International Institute for Environmental and Public Health, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Angelos P Kassianos
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Konstantinos Giannakou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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Ferrara M, Bertozzi G, Volonnino G, Di Fazio A, Di Fazio N, Arcangeli M, La Russa R, Frati P. Learning from the Past to Improve the Future—Vaccine Hesitancy Determinants in the Italian Population: A Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11030630. [PMID: 36992216 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11030630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
WHO identifies vaccine hesitancy (VH) as one of the ten threats to global health. The authors bring to the international scientific community an Italian episode that offers the opportunity to renew the discussion on the extent of the VH matter. The purpose of this systematic review is to analyze the factors determining vaccine hesitancy in the Italian population, to understand its roots, and suggest potential strategies to mitigate it. A systematic review of the literature according to the PRISMA guidelines was carried out using the SCOPUS and Medline (via PubMed) databases, using the following strategy: (COVID-19 vaccines) AND (vaccination hesitancy) AND (Italy). After the selection process, 36 articles were included in this systematic review. The most frequently detected factors associated with VH in the Italian population can be grouped as vaccine-related factors, socio-cultural factors, and demographic factors. Currently, we are facing a gap between the population and science, governments, and institutions. To heal this breach, it is necessary to strengthen the trust of the population through the implementation of health communication and public education strategies, while scientific literacy must continue to support families and individuals in discerning evidence from opinions to recognize the real risks and balance them with the benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Ferrara
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Forensic Pathology, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Gianpietro Volonnino
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Di Fazio
- Regional Complex Intercompany Institute of Legal Medicine, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Nicola Di Fazio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Arcangeli
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environment Science, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Raffaele La Russa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Forensic Pathology, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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The influence of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 on vaccination hesitancy among postsecondary students. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20564. [PMID: 36446831 PMCID: PMC9707274 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to explore the influence of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 on vaccination hesitancy among Slovenian postsecondary students. A cross-sectional study using a set of previously tested instruments and ad hoc questions created by the authors was chosen as the method to gain insight into various health and sociodemographic aspects of Slovenian postsecondary students affected by the COVID-19-induced closures and suspensions of educational activities at tertiary educational institutions (N = 5999). Overall, 39.7% of participating students expressed an intention to get vaccinated at the first possible opportunity, whereas 29.2% expressed no intent to do so. The highest vaccine hesitancy was observed among prospective teachers (50.3%) and the lowest among prospective physicians (5,7%). When examining the role of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 on the Slovenian postsecondary students' intentions to get vaccinated the results of logistic regression showed that only fear of COVID-19 played a mild and significant role.
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9
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Romate J, Rajkumar E, Gopi A, Abraham J, Rages J, Lakshmi R, Jesline J, Bhogle S. What Contributes to COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy? A Systematic Review of the Psychological Factors Associated with COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10111777. [PMID: 36366286 PMCID: PMC9698528 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10111777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy plays a crucial role in worldwide pandemic-control efforts. The multifaceted nature of vaccine hesitancy entails many psychological factors that are widely discussed in the literature, although few studies specifically compile these factors. Thus, this systematic review aims to synthesize the psychological factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. As per the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) guidelines, a systematic search was conducted on electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, PsycNET, and Web of Science, and a manual search was conducted on Google Scholar. Out of the 2289 articles obtained, 79 studies that met the inclusion criteria were deemed eligible for the review. The findings highlight appraisals of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine safety and side effects, vaccine confidence/trust, trust in government and healthcare professionals, scepticism around vaccine production, conspiracy beliefs, emotions, and information and knowledge about the vaccine as the major psychological factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. Concerningly, misinformation on COVID-19 vaccination spread through social media platforms, increasing vaccine hesitancy. Recommendations for government authorities, healthcare professionals, and implications for future research are also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Romate
- Department of Psychology, Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi 585367, India
| | - Eslavath Rajkumar
- Department of Psychology, Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi 585367, India
- Correspondence:
| | - Aswathy Gopi
- Department of Psychology, Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi 585367, India
| | - John Abraham
- St. John’s Medical College, St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore 560034, India
| | - John Rages
- Government College of Teacher Education, Calicut 673004, India
| | - R. Lakshmi
- Department of Psychology, Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi 585367, India
| | - Joshy Jesline
- Department of Psychology, Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi 585367, India
| | - Sudha Bhogle
- Psychology & Head, Student Solutions, Eduquity Career Technologies, Bangalore 560095, India
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CALABRÒ GIOVANNAELISA, ICARDI GIANCARLO, BONANNI PAOLO, GABUTTI GIOVANNI, VITALE FRANCESCO, RIZZO CATERINA, CICCHETTI AMERICO, STAIANO ANNAMARIA, ANSALDI FILIPPO, ORSI ANDREA, DE WAURE CHIARA, PANATTO DONATELLA, AMICIZIA DANIELA, BERT FABRIZIO, VILLANI ALBERTO, IERACI ROBERTO, CONVERSANO MICHELE, RUSSO CARMELA, RUMI FILIPPO, SCOTTI SILVESTRO, MAIO TOMMASA, RUSSO ROCCO, VACCARO CONCETTAMARIA, SILIQUINI ROBERTA, RICCIARDI WALTER. [Flu vaccination and value-based health care: operational solutions to safeguard public health]. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2022; 63:E1-E85. [PMID: 36310765 PMCID: PMC9586154 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2s2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- GIOVANNA ELISA CALABRÒ
- Sezione di Igiene, Dipartimento Universitario di Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma
- VIHTALI - Value In Health Technology and Academy for Leadership & Innovation, Spin-Off dell'Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma
| | - GIANCARLO ICARDI
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
- U.O. Igiene, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova
| | - PAOLO BONANNI
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute (DSS), Università di Firenze
| | - GIOVANNI GABUTTI
- Coordinatore Nazionale GdL Vaccini e Politiche Vaccinali della SItI
| | - FRANCESCO VITALE
- Dipartimento Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza “G. D’Alessandro”, Università degli Studi di Palermo
| | - CATERINA RIZZO
- Dipartimento di ricerca traslazionale e nuove tecnologie in medicina e chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Pisa
| | - AMERICO CICCHETTI
- Alta Scuola di Economia e Management dei Sistemi Sanitari (ALTEMS), Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma
| | - ANNAMARIA STAIANO
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi “Federico II”, Napoli
- Presidente Società Italiana di Pediatria (SIP)
| | - FILIPPO ANSALDI
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
- A.Li.Sa. Azienda Ligure Sanitaria Regione Liguria
| | - ANDREA ORSI
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
- U.O. Igiene, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova
| | - CHIARA DE WAURE
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Perugia
| | - DONATELLA PANATTO
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - DANIELA AMICIZIA
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
- A.Li.Sa. Azienda Ligure Sanitaria Regione Liguria
| | - FABRIZIO BERT
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Sanità Pubblica e Pediatriche, Università degli Studi di Torino
- SSDU Igiene Ospedaliera e Governo delle Infezioni Correlate all’Assistenza, ASL TO3
| | - ALBERTO VILLANI
- Dipartimento Emergenza Accettazione Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma
- Dipartimento di Medicina dei Sistemi, Università di Roma Tor Vergata
| | - ROBERTO IERACI
- Strategie vaccinali, Regione Lazio
- Ricercatore associato CID Ethics-CNR
| | | | - CARMELA RUSSO
- U.O.S.V.D. Epidemiologia - Comunicazione e Formazione Coordinamento delle Attività di Promozione della Salute e di Educazione Sanitaria, ASL Taranto
| | - FILIPPO RUMI
- Alta Scuola di Economia e Management dei Sistemi Sanitari (ALTEMS), Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma
| | | | - TOMMASA MAIO
- Federazione Italiana Medici di Medicina Generale (FIMMG)
| | - ROCCO RUSSO
- Coordinatore tavolo tecnico vaccinazioni, Società Italiana di Pediatria (SIP)
| | | | - ROBERTA SILIQUINI
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Sanità Pubblica e Pediatriche, Università degli Studi di Torino
- AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino
| | - WALTER RICCIARDI
- Sezione di Igiene, Dipartimento Universitario di Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma
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Ochnik D, Rogowska AM, Benatov J, Arzenšek A. Adaptation and Preliminary Validation of the Fear of Coronavirus Vaccination Scale in the Prospective Study among a Representative Sample of Polish, Israeli, Slovenian, and German Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811587. [PMID: 36141859 PMCID: PMC9517357 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Although concerns about harm and side effects are among the most important factors determining vaccine hesitancy, research on the fear of vaccination is sparse. The purpose of this study is a validation the Fear of Coronavirus Vaccination Scale (FoCVVS), adapted from the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. A representative sample of 1723 young adults aged 20-40 from Poland, Israel, Slovenia, and Germany participated during two time-points of the third COVID-19 pandemic wave. The online survey included demographic variables and several well-being dimensions, including gender, vaccination status, fear of coronavirus (FoCV-19S), physical health (GSRH), life satisfaction (SWLS), and perceived stress (PSS-10), anxiety (GAD-7), and depression (PHQ-9). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed at T1, and confirmatory analysis (CFA) at T2. The second-order two-factor structure demonstrated the best fit and very good discriminant and convergent validation. The general factor of the FoCVVS included two subscales assessing the emotional and physiological symptoms of fear of vaccination. Unvaccinated people showed higher levels of fear of vaccination than those vaccinated. A vaccination status, fear of vaccination T1, and fear of COVID-19 T1 were significant predictors of fear of vaccination T2. Vaccination-promoting programs should be focused on decreasing fear and enhancing the beneficial effects of vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Ochnik
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, 40-555 Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Joy Benatov
- Department of Special Education, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Ana Arzenšek
- Faculty of Management, University of Primorska, 6101 Koper, Slovenia
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Factors Associated with the COVID-19 Vaccination Status of Higher Education Students: Results of an Online Cross-Sectional Survey at Six Universities in Southwestern Germany. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091433. [PMID: 36146511 PMCID: PMC9505187 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study explored factors associated with the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination acceptance among higher education students in southwestern Germany. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey at six state-approved higher education institutions (HEIs) between July and November 2021. In addition to descriptive analyses, univariate as well as multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were conducted. A total of 6556 higher education students aged 18 years and older participated in our survey; 91.4% of participating students had been vaccinated against COVID-19 at least once. The factors that significantly contributed to the explanation of higher education students’ vaccination status in the multivariate analysis (area under curve—AUC = 0.94) were variables on the perception of the virus SARS-CoV-2 (affective risk perception: Adjusted odds ratio—aOR = 1.2; perception of the outbreak as a media-hype: aOR = 0.8), attitudes towards personal (aOR = 0.7) and study-related (aOR = 0.8) health and safety measures to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2, and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination (preservation of own health: aOR = 1.3; confidence in vaccine safety: aOR = 1.7; supporting higher education through vaccination: aOR = 1.2; own contribution to the containment of the pandemic: aOR = 1.7). The findings target assisting HEIs in returning to face-to-face teaching after previous semesters of online teaching.
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Gao W, Zhang Y, Yin G. Identifying conditions for a third dose intention of COVID-19 vaccination in college students: A fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:932243. [PMID: 36033777 PMCID: PMC9411792 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.932243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the pandemic, a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine effectively reduces the proportion of severe cases in those infected, but vaccine hesitancy impedes this reasonable prevention method. Epidemic control in China is being tested due to the large population base, especially in crowded places like college campuses. This study aimed to explore the configuration paths of psychological antecedents for college students to receive a third COVID-19 vaccine. Methods An anonymous cross-sectional survey was carried out in five universities in Wuhan using convenience sampling. A long version of the 5C 7-point Likert scale was used to measure college students' intention and psychological antecedents on the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. A fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) approach was performed to explore the configuration of conditions to the vaccination willingness. Results 31.67% of respondents surveyed did not receive their third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The score of intention to get the vaccine for college students who did not receive the booster vaccine was 4.93 (±1.68). Average scores of 5.19 (±1.24), 4.35 (±1.75), 4.02 (±1.45), 5.84 (±1.23), and 4.61(±1.32) were reported for confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation, and collective responsibility in them. QCA showed high confidence and collective responsibility playing a central role in third dose vaccination intention. Meanwhile, low confidence and collective responsibility are the core conditions of low vaccination willingness. Conclusion Eliminating vaccine hesitancy necessitates focusing on the psychological antecedents of vaccination intentions to identify critical targets for policy and interventions. This study identified trust and collective responsibility are core elements of the psychological antecedents of college students' intention to receive the booster vaccine for COVID-19. To achieve herd immunity as soon as possible, health administration and campus can start with vaccine confidence-building and collective responsibility cultivation to take appropriate actions and measures to improve coverage of the booster vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanqin Gao
- Department of Social Work, School of Literature, Law and Economics, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yulin Zhang
- Department of Social Work, School of Literature, Law and Economics, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gang Yin
- Department of Health Administration, School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,*Correspondence: Gang Yin
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Lo Moro G, Scaioli G, Bert F, Zacchero AL, Minutiello E, Siliquini R. Exploring the Relationship between COVID-19 Vaccine Refusal and Belief in Fake News and Conspiracy Theories: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159350. [PMID: 35954711 PMCID: PMC9368531 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has been accompanied by an infodemic, which includes fake news (FNs) and conspiracy theories (CTs), and which may worsen vaccine refusal (VR), thus hindering the control of the transmission. This study primarily aimed to assess COVID-19 VR in Italy and its relationship with belief in FNs/CTs. Secondarily, it explored the conviction in FNs and CTs and associated variables. An online cross-sectional study was conducted in Italy (2021). The primary outcome was VR and secondary outcomes were FN misclassification score (0% to 100%: higher score means higher misclassification) and CT belief score (1 to 5: higher score means higher agreement). There were 1517 participants; 12.3% showed VR. The median FN and CT scores were: 46.7% (IQR = 40–56.7%) and 2.8 (IQR = 2.2–3.4). Age, education, FN, and CT scores had significant associations with VR. Education, economic situation, health and e-health literacy showed significant relationships with secondary outcomes. Study/work background had a significant association only with the FN score. FN and CT scores were associated. This work estimated a VR lower than before the first COVID-19 vaccine approval. The relationship between VR and FN/CT belief represents a new scenario, suggesting the need for planning effective strategies to tackle FNs and CTs to implement successful vaccination campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Lo Moro
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.L.M.); (G.S.); (A.L.Z.); (E.M.); (R.S.)
| | - Giacomo Scaioli
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.L.M.); (G.S.); (A.L.Z.); (E.M.); (R.S.)
| | - Fabrizio Bert
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.L.M.); (G.S.); (A.L.Z.); (E.M.); (R.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0116705816
| | - Andrea Lorenzo Zacchero
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.L.M.); (G.S.); (A.L.Z.); (E.M.); (R.S.)
| | - Ettore Minutiello
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.L.M.); (G.S.); (A.L.Z.); (E.M.); (R.S.)
| | - Roberta Siliquini
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.L.M.); (G.S.); (A.L.Z.); (E.M.); (R.S.)
- AOU City of Health and Science of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
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Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy remains an issue in the United States. This study conducted an online survey [N = 3,013] using the Social Science Research Solution [SSRS] Opinion Panel web panelists, representative of U.S. adults age 18 and older who use the internet, with an oversample of rural-dwelling and minority populations between April 8 and April 22, 2021- as vaccine eligibility opened to the country. We examined the relationship between COVID-19 exposure and socio-demographics with vaccine intentions [eager-to-take, wait-and-see, undecided, refuse] among the unvaccinated using multinomial logistic regressions [ref: fully/partially vaccinated]. Results showed vaccine intentions varied by demographic characteristics and COVID-19 experience during the period that eligibility for the vaccine was extended to all adults. At the time of the survey approximately 40% of respondents were unvaccinated; 41% knew someone who had died of COVID-19, and 38% had experienced financial hardship as a result of the pandemic. The vaccinated were more likely to be highly educated, older adults, consistent with the United States initial eligibility criteria. Political affiliation and financial hardship experienced during the pandemic were the two most salient factors associated with being undecided or unwilling to take the vaccine.
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Patwary MM, Bardhan M, Haque MZ, Sultana R, Alam MA, Browning MHEM. COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance Rate and Its Factors among Healthcare Students: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:806. [PMID: 35632560 PMCID: PMC9143226 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10050806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare students are clinicians-in-training likely to come into contact with COVID-19 as much as other frontline healthcare professionals. It is therefore necessary to prioritize vaccinations for this group. We conducted a global systematic assessment of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rates and related factors among healthcare students using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and keyword searches in March of 2022. We found 1779 articles with relevant information and 31 articles that matched our inclusion criteria. We performed a random-effects meta-analysis and quality assessment using the eight-item Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal test for cross-sectional studies. A total of 30,272 individuals from 16 countries were studied. Most of the studies were carried out in the U.S. (n = 6), China (n = 5), Poland (n = 5), India (n = 2), Italy (n = 2), and Israel (n = 2). The prevalence of the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate was 68.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 60.8-76.3, I2 = 100%), and the prevalence of the vaccine hesitancy rate was 25.8% (95% CI: 18.5-33.8, I2 = 99%). In country-specific analyses, Romania showed the highest acceptance rate (88.0%, 95% CI: 44.5-100%), while Iraq showed the lowest acceptance rate (66.2%, 95% CI: 35.5-90.8%). In time-trend analyses, we found that acceptance rates among healthcare students decreased over time. Students concerned about potentially serious side effects of the vaccine were less willing to accept the vaccine. National and international interventions should be adopted to reduce COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy rates among these important frontline workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Mainuddin Patwary
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh; (M.B.); (M.Z.H.)
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh;
| | - Mondira Bardhan
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh; (M.B.); (M.Z.H.)
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Zahidul Haque
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh; (M.B.); (M.Z.H.)
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh;
| | - Rabeya Sultana
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh;
| | - Md Ashraful Alam
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan;
- Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research, Tokyo 106-6234, Japan
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