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Kaddour O, Ben Mabrouk A, Arfa S, Lassoued N, Berriche O, Chelli J. Knowledge and attitudes of healthcare workers about influenza vaccination. Infect Dis Health 2024; 29:203-211. [PMID: 38679564 DOI: 10.1016/j.idh.2024.04.005] [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: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza infection is a highly contagious viral disease. It may cause several nosocomial outbreaks. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare workers (HCWs) about influenza vaccination and to identify factors associated with the uptake of influenza vaccination. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study over 5 months between November 2021 and March 2022. Data was collected using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. We included all HCWs at Taher Sfar University Hospital who were willing to participate in the study. RESULTS A total of 395 HCWs were included. They were mainly women (78.7%) with an average age of 27 years. The medical personnel was the largest group (67.8%). Most respondents considered the vaccination to be optional and knew that it should be renewed every year, but 97.5% of them judged the efficacy of the vaccine to be low. The influenza vaccination uptake was only 20.2%. The main reasons for accepting vaccination were to protect patients and families. However, misconceptions about the severity and the risk of influenza and the belief that barrier measures were sufficient to prevent infection were the main causes of avoiding vaccination. The factors associated with adherence to vaccination were being a medical professional, old age, longer professional experience, and considering vaccination to be mandatory for HCWs. CONCLUSION Our study showed a low adherence to influenza vaccination with misconceptions about vaccine efficacy and safety. More efforts are needed to improve the knowledge of HCW about the vaccine and boost the adherence rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oussama Kaddour
- Internal Medicine and Endocrinology Department, Taher Sfar Hospital, Mahdia, Tunisia
| | - Asma Ben Mabrouk
- Internal Medicine and Endocrinology Department, Taher Sfar Hospital, Mahdia, Tunisia.
| | - Sondess Arfa
- Internal Medicine and Endocrinology Department, Taher Sfar Hospital, Mahdia, Tunisia
| | - Najoua Lassoued
- Internal Medicine and Endocrinology Department, Taher Sfar Hospital, Mahdia, Tunisia
| | - Olfa Berriche
- Internal Medicine and Endocrinology Department, Taher Sfar Hospital, Mahdia, Tunisia
| | - Jihene Chelli
- Internal Medicine and Endocrinology Department, Taher Sfar Hospital, Mahdia, Tunisia
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Fan J, Xu S, Liu Y, Ma X, Cao J, Fan C, Bao S. Influenza vaccination rates among healthcare workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating influencing factors. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1295464. [PMID: 38026311 PMCID: PMC10657874 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1295464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Healthcare workers risk of exposure to the influenza virus in their work, is a high-risk group for flu infections. Thus WHO recommends prioritizing flu vaccination for them-an approach adopted by >40 countries and/or regions worldwide. Methods Cross-sectional studies on influenza vaccination rates among healthcare workers were collected from PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, and CBM databases from inception to February 26, 2023. Influenza vaccination rates and relevant data for multiple logistic regression analysis, such as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), were extracted. Results A total of 92 studies comprising 125 vaccination data points from 26 countries were included in the analysis. The meta-analysis revealed that the overall vaccination rate among healthcare workers was 41.7%. Further analysis indicated that the vaccination rate was 46.9% or 35.6% in low income or high income countries. Vaccination rates in the Americas, the Middle East, Oceania, Europe, Asia, and Africa were 67.1, 51.3, 48.7, 42.5, 28.5, and 6.5%, respectively. Influencing factors were age, length of service, education, department, occupation, awareness of the risk of influenza, and/or vaccines. Conclusion The global influenza vaccination rate among healthcare workers is low, and comprehensive measures are needed to promote influenza vaccination among this population. Systematic review registration www.inplysy.com, identifier: 202350051.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingchun Fan
- Center for Laboratory and Simulation Training, School of Public Health, Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shijie Xu
- School of Public Health, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yijun Liu
- Social and Historical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xiaoting Ma
- School of Nursing, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Juan Cao
- Department of Public Health, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chunling Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Gansu Provincial Cancer Hospital, Gansu Provincial Academic Institute for Medical Research, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shisan Bao
- Center for Laboratory and Simulation Training, School of Public Health, Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
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Shahid S, Kalhoro S, Khwaja H, Hussainyar MA, Mehmood J, Qazi MF, Abubakar A, Mohamed S, Khan W, Jehan F, Nisar MI. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards seasonal influenza vaccination among pregnant women and healthcare workers: A cross-sectional survey in Afghanistan. Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2023; 17:e13101. [PMID: 36970574 PMCID: PMC10030354 DOI: 10.1111/irv.13101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite recommendation by the World Health Organization (WHO), influenza vaccination coverage among high-risk groups remains suboptimal in Afghanistan. This study aims to document the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of seasonal influenza vaccine uptake among two priority groups, pregnant women (PWs) and healthcare workers (HCWs). Methods This cross-sectional study enrolled PWs and HCWs in Kabul, Afghanistan, from September to December 2021. Data on vaccine intention and uptake, knowledge, and attitudes towards vaccination were collected. Simple linear regression was used to predict the impact of sociodemographic characteristics on the KAP score. Results A total of 420 PWs were enrolled in Afghanistan. The majority (89%) of these women had never heard of the influenza vaccine but 76% intended to receive the vaccine. Of the 220 HCWs enrolled, 88% were unvaccinated. Accessibility and cost were factors which encouraged vaccination among HCWs. Fear of side effects and affordability were identified as key barriers. HCWs reported high level of vaccine intention (93%). PWs aged under 18 years (β: 6.5, P = 0.004), between 18 and 24 years (β: 2.9, P = 0.014), currently employed (β: 5.8, P = 0.004), and vaccinated against COVID-19 (β: 2.8, P = 0.01) were likely to have a higher attitude score. Among HCWs, being female was a predictor for poor vaccination practice (β: -1.33, P < 0.001) whereas being vaccinated against COVID-19 was a predictor for higher practice score (β: 2.4, P < 0.001). Conclusion To increase influenza vaccination coverage among priority groups, efforts should be made to address issues such as lack of knowledge, limited availability, and cost barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahira Shahid
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthAga Khan UniversityKarachiPakistan
| | - Shafi Kalhoro
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthAga Khan UniversityKarachiPakistan
| | - Hajra Khwaja
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthAga Khan UniversityKarachiPakistan
| | | | - Junaid Mehmood
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthAga Khan UniversityKarachiPakistan
| | | | | | - Shaza Mohamed
- WHO Regional Office for the Eastern MediterraneanCairoEgypt
| | - Wasiq Khan
- WHO Regional Office for the Eastern MediterraneanCairoEgypt
| | - Fyezah Jehan
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthAga Khan UniversityKarachiPakistan
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Development of a road map to scale up the uptake and utilization of influenza vaccine in 22 countries of Eastern Mediterranean Region. Vaccine 2022; 40:6558-6565. [PMID: 36208976 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.09.051] [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: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this project was to develop a road map to support countries in Eastern Mediterranean Region in developing and implementing evidence-based seasonal influenza vaccination policy, strengthen influenza vaccination delivery program and address vaccine misperceptions and hesitancy. METHODS The road map was developed through consultative meetings with countries' focal points, review of relevant literature and policy documents and analysis of WHO/UNICEF Joint Reporting Form on immunization ((JRF 2015-2020) data. Countries were categorised into three groups, based on the existence of influenza vaccination policy and national regulatory authority, availability of influenza vaccine in the country and number of influenza vaccine doses distributed/ 1000 population. The final road map was shared with representatives of all countries in Eastern Mediterranean Region and other stakeholders during a meeting in September 2021. RESULT The goal for next 5 years is to increase access to and use of utilization of seasonal influenza vaccine in Eastern Mediterranean Region to reduce influenza-associated morbidity and mortality among priority groups for vaccination. Countries in the Eastern Mediterranean Region are at different stages of implementation of the influenza vaccination program, so activities are planned under four strategic priority areas based on current situations in countries. The consultative body recommended that some countries should establish a new seasonal influenza vaccination programme and ensure the availability of vaccines, while other countries need to reduce vaccine hesitancy and enhance current seasonal influenza vaccination coverage, particularly in all high-risk groups. Countries are also encouraged to leverage COVID-19 adult vaccination programs to improve seasonal influenza vaccine uptake. CONCLUSION This road map was developed through a consultative process to scale up the uptake and utilization of influenza vaccine in all countries of Eastern Mediterranean Region. The road map proposes activities that should be adopted in the local context to develop/ update national policies and programs.
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Ajejas Bazán MJ, Pérez-Rivas FJ, Wärnberg J, Fuentes Mora C, Ballester Orcal LE, Gómez Crespo JM, López-López C, Domínguez-Fernández S, Rico-Blázquez M, Pérez-Farinós N. Flu Vaccination Coverage and Predictors of Non-Vaccination in Military Health Corps Personnel 2016-2017 and 2019-2021. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:460. [PMID: 35335092 PMCID: PMC8953286 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10030460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Vaccination is the most effective intervention to control seasonal influenza morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to determine the influenza vaccination coverage in the Military Health Corps personnel in the 2020−2021 season, as well as the time trend and the possible influence of the pandemic on coverage, in order to study the reasons that led to the non-vaccination of health professionals and to analyze adverse drug reactions (ADRs). (2) Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May 2021. All FAS CMS personnel were included. A self-administered questionnaire was sent by e-mail to the selected personnel. (3) Results: Vaccination coverage in the 2016−2017 season was 15.8% (n = 276), in the 2019−2020 season it was 17.41% (n = 424), and in the 2020−2021 season it was 24.22% (n = 590). The percentage of vaccinated men was higher than the percentage of women. In 2019 and 2020 the most vaccinated group was 31−40 years old. Lieutenants had the highest vaccination uptake in 2019 and 2020. The personnel with the highest uptake of vaccines were those in the specialty of nursing in each of 2016, 2019 and 2020, with >30 years of time worked in 2016. In terms of factors leading to refusal of vaccination, the most reported was “not considered a risk group” (23.0%), and the least reported was “avoidance of vaccine administration” (2.2%). Eighty individuals presented adverse reactions after vaccine administration (9.6%). (4) Conclusions: The rate of influenza vaccination among healthcare professionals was lower during the 2020 season compared to the previous season, but was expected to increase in the upcoming 2021 season.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Julia Ajejas Bazán
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (F.J.P.-R.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.)
- Academia Central de la Defensa, Escuela Militar de Sanidad, Ministerio de Defensa, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.W.); (S.D.-F.); (N.P.-F.)
| | - Francisco Javier Pérez-Rivas
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (F.J.P.-R.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.W.); (S.D.-F.); (N.P.-F.)
| | - Julia Wärnberg
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.W.); (S.D.-F.); (N.P.-F.)
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), 29071 Málaga, Spain
| | - Carlos Fuentes Mora
- Departamento de Coordinación y Docencia del Hospital Central de la Defensa, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | | | - Jose Manuel Gómez Crespo
- Academia Central de la Defensa, Escuela Militar de Sanidad, Ministerio de Defensa, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Candelas López-López
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (F.J.P.-R.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.W.); (S.D.-F.); (N.P.-F.)
- Department of Intensive Care, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Cuidados (InveCuid), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Domínguez-Fernández
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.W.); (S.D.-F.); (N.P.-F.)
- Madrid Salud, Ayuntamiento de Madrid, 28007 Madrid, Spain
| | - Milagros Rico-Blázquez
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (F.J.P.-R.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.W.); (S.D.-F.); (N.P.-F.)
- Unidad de Investigación de la Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de la Salud, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Napoleón Pérez-Farinós
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.W.); (S.D.-F.); (N.P.-F.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), 29071 Málaga, Spain
- Departamento de Salud Pública y Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
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Cherif I, Kharroubi G, Bouabid L, Gharbi A, Boukthir A, Ben Alaya N, Ben Salah A, Bettaieb J. Knowledge, attitudes and uptake related to influenza vaccine among healthcare workers during the 2018-2019 influenza season in Tunisia. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:907. [PMID: 33980192 PMCID: PMC8116062 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10970-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influenza vaccine (IV) is considered the most effective strategy to prevent seasonal influenza infection and annual vaccination of healthcare workers (HCWs) is recommended by the World Health Organization given their high mixing with patients. We assessed IV uptake among HCWs in the 2018-2019 season and explored their knowledge and attitudes regarding influenza immunization. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in 150 representative Tunisian health facilities from March to May 2019. We recruited 1231 HCWs with direct patient contact using self-weighted multistage sampling. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses permitted to assess the factors associated with IV uptake in the 2018-2019 influenza season. RESULTS Among 1231 health professionals enrolled in this study, less than half (36.6, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 33.9-39.4) received the IV at least once in their lives and only 15.3% (CI: 13.3-17.4) were vaccinated against influenza in the 2018-2019 influenza season. High confidence regarding IV efficacy, belief about the mandatory character of influenza vaccination for HCWs, and IV uptake in the 4 years preceding the 2018-2019 influenza season were independently associated with higher IV uptake by multivariate analysis. However, participants with high educational level were less likely to receive the IV than those with the lowest educational level. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed a low vaccination rate among Tunisian HCWs confirming the importance of tailored education programs targeting this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Cherif
- Laboratory of Medical Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ghassen Kharroubi
- Laboratory of Medical Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Leila Bouabid
- National Observatory of New and Emerging Diseases, 5-7, Khartoum Street, Diplomat, 13th floor, Le Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Adel Gharbi
- Laboratory of Medical Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Aicha Boukthir
- Laboratory of Medical Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Nissaf Ben Alaya
- National Observatory of New and Emerging Diseases, 5-7, Khartoum Street, Diplomat, 13th floor, Le Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Afif Ben Salah
- Laboratory of Medical Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
- Arabian Gulf University, Road 2904 Building 293, Manama, 329 Bahrain
| | - Jihene Bettaieb
- Laboratory of Medical Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, B.P.74, Belvédère, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
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Zaraket H, Melhem N, Malik M, Khan WM, Dbaibo G, Abubakar A. Review of seasonal influenza vaccination in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: Policies, use and barriers. J Infect Public Health 2020; 13:377-384. [PMID: 32146138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2020.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is the main control measure for influenza and its severe complications. To better understand the influenza vaccination situation in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, we conducted an extensive review of literature published between 2006 and 2016 in the region on influenza vaccine policies, use, recommendations and coverage. Forty-eight articles met the inclusion criteria. These originated from 11 of the 22 countries of the region, with most being from Saudi Arabia and Iran. The review revealed knowledge gaps and misconceptions about influenza and its vaccines even among healthcare workers. Most of the papers reviewed reported low coverage in the target populations. Limited literature on the number of countries with concrete national influenza vaccination policies was available, which may not accurately represent the situation in the Region. In conclusion, lack of awareness and knowledge are the main barriers to influenza vaccination, which remains very low in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Countries of the region need to promote and invest in research on influenza vaccination, which is critical to inform evidence-based programmes and policies to improve vaccination rates and control influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Zaraket
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology & Microbiology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Medicine, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nada Melhem
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mamunur Malik
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Monazamet El Seha El Alamia Street, Extension of Abdel Razak El Sanhouri Street, P.O. Box 7608, Nasr City, Cairo 11371, Egypt
| | - Wasiq M Khan
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Monazamet El Seha El Alamia Street, Extension of Abdel Razak El Sanhouri Street, P.O. Box 7608, Nasr City, Cairo 11371, Egypt
| | - Ghassan Dbaibo
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdinasir Abubakar
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Monazamet El Seha El Alamia Street, Extension of Abdel Razak El Sanhouri Street, P.O. Box 7608, Nasr City, Cairo 11371, Egypt.
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Zaraket H, Melhem N, Malik M, Khan WM, Dbaibo G, Abubakar A. Review of seasonal influenza vaccination in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: Policies, use and barriers. J Infect Public Health 2018; 12:472-478. [PMID: 30446255 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is the main control measure for influenza and its severe complications. To better understand the influenza vaccination situation in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, we conducted an extensive review of literature published between 2006 and 2016 in the region on influenza vaccine policies, use, recommendations and coverage. Forty-eight articles met the inclusion criteria. These originated from 11 of the 22 countries of the region, with most being from Saudi Arabia and Iran. The review revealed knowledge gaps and misconceptions about influenza and its vaccines even among healthcare workers. Most of the papers reviewed reported low coverage in the target populations. Limited literature on the number of countries with concrete national influenza vaccination policies was available, which may not accurately represent the situation in the Region. In conclusion, lack of awareness and knowledge are the main barriers to influenza vaccination, which remains very low in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Countries of the region need to promote and invest in research on influenza vaccination, which is critical to inform evidence-based programmes and policies to improve vaccination rates and control influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Zaraket
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology & Microbiology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Medicine, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nada Melhem
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mamunur Malik
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Monazamet El Seha El Alamia Street, Extension of Abdel Razak El Sanhouri Street, P.O. Box 7608, Nasr City, Cairo 11371, Egypt
| | - Wasiq M Khan
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Monazamet El Seha El Alamia Street, Extension of Abdel Razak El Sanhouri Street, P.O. Box 7608, Nasr City, Cairo 11371, Egypt
| | - Ghassan Dbaibo
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdinasir Abubakar
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Monazamet El Seha El Alamia Street, Extension of Abdel Razak El Sanhouri Street, P.O. Box 7608, Nasr City, Cairo 11371, Egypt.
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AlMarzooqi LM, AlMajidi AA, AlHammadi AA, AlAli N, Khansaheb HH. Knowledge, attitude, and practice of influenza vaccine immunization among primary healthcare providers in Dubai health authority, 2016-2017. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:2999-3004. [PMID: 30156958 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1507667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Vaccination of healthcare providers (HCPs) against seasonal influenza has been consistently recommended worldwide. Despite that, healthcare providers (HCPs) globally and in other Middle Eastern countries continue to have a low rate of influenza vaccination due to various reasons. No data are available from our country, United Arab Emirates. Objectives: To identify the percentage of vaccinated HCPs, identify the most common reason for receiving the vaccine or not and to identify the level of HCPs knowledge towards the influenza vaccine itself. Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, anonymous 18-item self-administered questionnaires were distributed among healthcare providers in the 11 primary healthcare centers of Dubai Health Authority over a period of 5 months. Results: Of the 431 participants who completed the questionnaires, 53.4% reported getting vaccinated. The difference in the vaccine uptake between the different professional categories was significant [P value < .000].The most common reason reported by HCPs for getting the vaccine was to protect themselves (94.8%). Of the 46.6% who did not accept the vaccine, the most common reason for not being vaccinated was their belief of not being at high risk to contract influenza (39.8%). Despite fairly good knowledge (63.3%), healthcare providers continue to have their reservations with regards to the yearly influenza vaccination. Conclusion: Although our HCPs attitude towards vaccine uptake, knowledge and practice were positive; the misconception about the vaccine remains the main reason for not being vaccinated as per our study findings. Overall, the study results raise hope of prospective increase in vaccination through educational and technical interventions and by increasing physician involvement. One suggested method would be to apply mandatory vaccination policies since voluntary vaccinations have shown lesser than satisfactory results and to be integrated in the online staff file system to be able to verify the uptake, in addition to provide easily accessible vaccine centers, during the season in order to facilitate tracking and verification of the vaccination status & to encourage staff compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lateefa Mohamed AlMarzooqi
- a Health Centers Department , Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Health Authority , Dubai , United Arab Emirates
| | - Anfal Ali AlMajidi
- a Health Centers Department , Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Health Authority , Dubai , United Arab Emirates
| | - Abeer Abdulrahim AlHammadi
- a Health Centers Department , Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Health Authority , Dubai , United Arab Emirates
| | - Noura AlAli
- a Health Centers Department , Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Health Authority , Dubai , United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamda Hassan Khansaheb
- a Health Centers Department , Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Health Authority , Dubai , United Arab Emirates
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Alqahtani AS, Bondagji DM, Alshehari AA, Basyouni MH, Alhawassi TM, BinDhim NF, Rashid H. Vaccinations against respiratory infections in Arabian Gulf countries: Barriers and motivators. World J Clin Cases 2017; 5:212-221. [PMID: 28685134 PMCID: PMC5480069 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v5.i6.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To study the uptake, barriers and motivators of influenza, pneumococcal, meningococcal and pertussis vaccines among members of public in Arabian Gulf countries.
METHODS A cross-sectional survey among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries’ residents. Data collected electronically through a smartphone app. The survey variables aimed to investigate the respondents’ awareness about vaccines against influenza, pneumococcal, meningococcal and pertussis infections. Collected data concerning the respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics, their perception toward vaccine uptake and the factors that motivate or demotivate them from taking influenza vaccine. The data were analysed statistically using the SPSS v.23.0. Differences in the characteristics of users from different countries were quantified through bivariate analysis. Other important variables and controlling factors were studied using logistic regression.
RESULTS A total of 1812 respondents participated in the study. Their mean age was 27 years, 82% were male and 24% had ≥ 1 chronic diseases. The overall uptake of influenza vaccine was 17% (21% among “at risk” people) and ranged from 15% in Saudi Arabia to 24% in Qatar. Doctor’s advice (23%) and a perception of having low body immunity (21%) were the main cited reasons for being vaccinated, whereas unawareness about the vaccine (43%) was the main barrier. The overall uptake of pneumococcal vaccine in the preceding three years was 22% (25% among “at risk” individuals) and ranged from 0% in Bahrain to 79% in Kuwait. The overall uptake of pertussis vaccine was 16% (31% among “vulnerable” people), and ranged from 7% in Saudi Arabia to 75% in Oman. The overall uptake of meningococcal vaccine was 20% (29% among the “at risk” people) and ranged from 3% in Oman to 50% in Bahrain.
CONCLUSION The vaccination uptake across GCC countries is suboptimal and varies widely across the countries. Further research is needed to unearth the reasons and formulate action plan.
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Haviari S, Bénet T, Saadatian-Elahi M, André P, Loulergue P, Vanhems P. Vaccination of healthcare workers: A review. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2016; 11:2522-37. [PMID: 26291642 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2015.1082014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine-preventable diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. As new vaccines are proving to be effective and as the incidence of some infections decreases, vaccination practices are changing. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to and play a role in nosocomial transmission, which makes them an important target group for vaccination. Most vaccine-preventable diseases still carry a significant risk of resurgence and have caused outbreaks in recent years. While many professional societies favor vaccination of HCWs as well as the general population, recommendations differ from country to country. In turn, vaccination coverage varies widely for each microorganism and for each country, making hospitals and clinics vulnerable to outbreaks. Vaccine mandates and non-mandatory strategies are the subject of ongoing research and controversies. Optimal approaches to increase coverage and turn the healthcare workforce into an efficient barrier against infectious diseases are still being debated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skerdi Haviari
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France
| | - Thomas Bénet
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France.,b Equipe Epidémiologie et Santé Publique, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1 ; Lyon , France.,c Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), French Clinical Research Investigation Network (F-CRIN), Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC) ; Lyon , France
| | - Mitra Saadatian-Elahi
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France
| | - Philippe André
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France
| | - Pierre Loulergue
- c Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), French Clinical Research Investigation Network (F-CRIN), Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC) ; Lyon , France.,d Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM, CIC 1417, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Groupe Hospitalier Cochin Broca Hôtel Dieu, CIC Cochin-Pasteur ; Paris , France.,e INSERM, F-CRIN, I-REIVAC, Cochin Center ; Paris , France
| | - Philippe Vanhems
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France.,b Equipe Epidémiologie et Santé Publique, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1 ; Lyon , France.,c Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), French Clinical Research Investigation Network (F-CRIN), Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC) ; Lyon , France
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Guanche Gacell H, Villanueva Arias A, Guilarte García E, Rubiera Jiménez R, Nonato Alfonso R. A Successful Strategy for Improving the Influenza Immunization Rates of Health Care Workers without a Mandatory Policy. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE 2015; 6:184-6. [PMID: 26174995 PMCID: PMC6977052 DOI: 10.15171/ijoem.2015.595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Alhammadi A, Khalifa M, Abdulrahman H, Almuslemani E, Alhothi A, Janahi M. Attitudes and perceptions among the pediatric health care providers toward influenza vaccination in Qatar: A cross-sectional study. Vaccine 2015; 33:3821-8. [PMID: 26144904 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.06.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza is a communicable but preventable viral illness. Despite safe and effective vaccine availability, compliance rates are globally low. Neither local data on percentage of vaccination nor reasons for poor compliance among pediatric health providers are available in Qatar. AIM To estimate the percentage of vaccinated health care providers at pediatrics department and know their perception and attitudes toward influenza vaccinations. METHODS Cross-sectional survey, conducted on 300 pediatrics healthcare professionals from January through April 2013 at the main tertiary teaching hospital in Qatar, included details of demographics, frequency, perceptions and suggestive ways to improve the compliance. FINDING From among 230 respondents, 90 physicians and 133 allied health care professionals participated in this survey. Our study showed that percentages of participants who received flu vaccination were 67.7% and those who did not receive vaccination were 32.3%. Allied HCPs (69%) are more likely to get the vaccine compared to the physicians (66%). flu vaccination was approximately 5 times likely to be higher in the age group more than 40 years (P=0.002) compared to age less than or equals 40 years. Overall 70% healthcare providers were willing to recommend immunization to colleagues and patients compared to 30%, who were not willing. The reasons for noncompliance included fear of side effects, contracting the flu, vaccine safety and lack of awareness about the effectiveness. In order to promote immunization, participants believe that use of evidence-based statement, participating in an educational campaign, provides no cost/on site campaigns and leadership support is the most practical interventions. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, the vaccine coverage among pediatrics HCPs seems higher than previously reported rates. Despite their positive attitude toward influenza vaccination, low acceptance and misconceptions of seasonal influenza vaccination by pediatric HCPs may have a negative effect on the successful immunization delivery and children immunization rate. Our findings would be useful for designing and implementing educational programs targeted to improve vaccination coverage rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Alhammadi
- Pediatrics Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Mohamed Khalifa
- Pediatrics Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Hatem Abdulrahman
- Pediatrics Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Eman Almuslemani
- Pediatrics Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Abdullah Alhothi
- Pediatrics Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Mohamed Janahi
- Pediatrics Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
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