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Lamprinos D, Vroulou M, Chatzopoulos M, Georgakopoulos P, Deligiorgi P, Oikonomou E, Siasos G, Botonis PG, Papavassiliou KA, Papagiannis D, Pouletidis T, Damaskos C, Rachiotis G, Marinos G. Influenza Vaccination Practices and Perceptions Among Young Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study in Greece. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:904. [PMID: 39204030 PMCID: PMC11360351 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12080904] [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: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza vaccination among athletes is a crucial area in sports medicine. This descriptive, cross-sectional study aims to explore the vaccination practices and intentions regarding influenza vaccines among young athletes. METHODS A structured, questionnaire-based study was conducted among students from the National School of Sports in Greece. The survey was conducted over the period of April to May 2023. Overall, 138 participants participated in the study. RESULTS More than half of the participants had received a flu vaccine in the past, but only 12.3% were vaccinated against influenza for 2022-2023. The main reasons seemed to be the lack of time (40.6%) and the idea that influenza does not lead to any serious health threats for the participants (36.2%). The main factor that affected their decision to get the flu vaccine or not was the need for more information regarding influenza vaccination (79%). CONCLUSIONS The recent study showed low vaccination coverage among people of young age participating in sports activities. The qualitative views of the participants highlighted the significance of the lackof a well-organized information program provided by health professionals and coaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Lamprinos
- Emergency Care Department, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.L.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (P.G.)
| | - Maria Vroulou
- Emergency Care Department, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.L.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (P.G.)
| | - Michail Chatzopoulos
- Emergency Care Department, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.L.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (P.G.)
| | - Panagiotis Georgakopoulos
- Emergency Care Department, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (D.L.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (P.G.)
| | - Paraskevi Deligiorgi
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.D.); (E.O.); (G.S.); (T.P.)
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.D.); (E.O.); (G.S.); (T.P.)
- Third Department of Cardiology, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.D.); (E.O.); (G.S.); (T.P.)
- Third Department of Cardiology, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Petros G. Botonis
- Department of Sports Medicine and Biology of Exercise, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 17237 Athens, Greece;
| | - Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- First Department of Respiratory Medicine, “Sotiria” Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Dimitrios Papagiannis
- Public Health & Vaccines Laboratory, Department of Nursing, School of Health Science, University of Thessaly, 41500 Volos, Greece;
| | - Theodoros Pouletidis
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.D.); (E.O.); (G.S.); (T.P.)
| | - Christos Damaskos
- N.S. Christeas Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - George Rachiotis
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece;
| | - Georgios Marinos
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Ekezie W, Awwad S, Krauchenberg A, Karara N, Dembiński Ł, Grossman Z, del Torso S, Dornbusch HJ, Neves A, Copley S, Mazur A, Hadjipanayis A, Grechukha Y, Nohynek H, Damnjanović K, Lazić M, Papaevangelou V, Lapii F, Stein-Zamir C, Rath B. Access to Vaccination among Disadvantaged, Isolated and Difficult-to-Reach Communities in the WHO European Region: A Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1038. [PMID: 35891201 PMCID: PMC9324407 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination has a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. High vaccination coverage rates are required to achieve herd protection against vaccine-preventable diseases. However, limited vaccine access and hesitancy among specific communities represent significant obstacles to this goal. This review provides an overview of critical factors associated with vaccination among disadvantaged groups in World Health Organisation European countries. Initial searches yielded 18,109 publications from four databases, and 104 studies from 19 out of 53 countries reporting 22 vaccine-preventable diseases were included. Nine groups representing the populations of interest were identified, and most of the studies focused on asylum seekers, refugees, migrants and deprived communities. Recall of previous vaccinations received was poor, and serology was conducted in some cases to confirm protection for those who received prior vaccinations. Vaccination coverage was lower among study populations compared to the general population or national average. Factors that influenced uptake, which presented differently at different population levels, included health service accessibility, language and vaccine literacy, including risk perception, disease severity and vaccination benefits. Strategies that could be implemented in vaccination policy and programs were also identified. Overall, interventions specific to target communities are vital to improving uptake. More innovative strategies need to be deployed to improve vaccination coverage among disadvantaged groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winifred Ekezie
- Vienna Vaccine Safety Initiative e.V., 10437 Berlin, Germany; (W.E.); (S.A.)
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG5 1PB, UK
- College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE5 4PW, UK
- ImmuHubs Consortium, Coordinating Entity: Vienna Vaccine Safety Initiative e.V., 10437 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Samy Awwad
- Vienna Vaccine Safety Initiative e.V., 10437 Berlin, Germany; (W.E.); (S.A.)
- ImmuHubs Consortium, Coordinating Entity: Vienna Vaccine Safety Initiative e.V., 10437 Berlin, Germany;
- Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - Arja Krauchenberg
- ImmuHubs Consortium, Coordinating Entity: Vienna Vaccine Safety Initiative e.V., 10437 Berlin, Germany;
- European Parents Association, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nora Karara
- Young European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium;
- Evangelical Hospital Queen Elisabeth Herzberge, 10365 Berlin, Germany
| | - Łukasz Dembiński
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zachi Grossman
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
| | - Stefano del Torso
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Hans Juergen Dornbusch
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Ana Neves
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Sian Copley
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Artur Mazur
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Adamos Hadjipanayis
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Yevgenii Grechukha
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Hanna Nohynek
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Kaja Damnjanović
- Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Beograd, Serbia;
| | - Milica Lazić
- Faculty of Philosophy, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Vana Papaevangelou
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | - Fedir Lapii
- European Academy of Paediatrics, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (Ł.D.); (Z.G.); (S.d.T.); (H.J.D.); (A.N.); (S.C.); (A.M.); (A.H.); (Y.G.); (V.P.); (F.L.)
| | | | - Barbara Rath
- Vienna Vaccine Safety Initiative e.V., 10437 Berlin, Germany; (W.E.); (S.A.)
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG5 1PB, UK
- ImmuHubs Consortium, Coordinating Entity: Vienna Vaccine Safety Initiative e.V., 10437 Berlin, Germany;
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Diks ME, Hiligsmann M, van der Putten IM. Vaccine preferences driving vaccine-decision making of different target groups: a systematic review of choice-based experiments. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:879. [PMID: 34454441 PMCID: PMC8397865 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06398-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choice-based experiments have been increasingly used to elicit preferences for vaccines and vaccination programs. This study aims to systematically identify and examine choice-based experiments assessing (differences in) vaccine preferences of vaccinees, representatives and health advisors. METHODS Five electronic databases were searched on choice-based conjoint analysis studies or discrete choice experiments capturing vaccine preferences of children, adolescents, parents, adults and healthcare professionals for attributes of vaccines or vaccine settings up to September 2020. Data was extracted using a standardized form covering all important aspects of choice experiments. A quality assessment was used to assess the validity of studies. Attributes were categorized into outcome, process, cost and other. The importance of attributes was assessed by the frequency of reporting and statistical significance. Results were compared between high-quality studies and lower-quality studies. RESULTS A total of 42 studies were included, with the majority conducted in high-income countries after 2010 (resp. n = 34 and n = 37). Preferences of representatives were studied in nearly half of the studies (47.6%), followed by vaccinees (35.7%) and health advisors (9.5%). Sixteen high-quality studies passed the quality assessment. Outcome- and cost- related attributes such as vaccine effectiveness, vaccine risk, cost and protection duration were most often statistically significant across both target groups, with vaccine effectiveness being the most important. Risks associated with vaccination, such as side effects, were more often statistically significant in studies targeting vaccinees, while cost-related attributes were more often statistically significant in studies of representatives. Process-related attributes such as vaccine accessibility and time were least important across both target groups. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review in which vaccine preferences of different target groups were assessed and compared. The same attributes were most important for vaccine decisions of vaccinees and representatives, with only minor differences in level of evidence for vaccine risk and cost. Future research on vaccine preferences of health advisors and/or among target groups in low-resource settings would give insight into the generalizability of current findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn Emma Diks
- Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Mickael Hiligsmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, 6229, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ingeborg Maria van der Putten
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, 6229, Maastricht, Netherlands.
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Vaccination Status of Mothers and Children from the 'Mamma & Bambino' Cohort. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9020168. [PMID: 33671412 PMCID: PMC7921954 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the evidence demonstrating vaccines’ safety and effectiveness in anticipation of and during pregnancy, several countries have established immunization programs during the periconceptional period. Here, we evaluated vaccination status among 220 mother–child pairs, using data from the ‘Mamma & Bambino’ cohort. The self-reported data were evaluated at delivery, and with planned follow-ups at 1–2 years after delivery. In general, we noted that the vaccination status among the women was heterogeneous, ranging from 8.3% (vaccine against Human Papillomavirus, HPV) to 65.6% (vaccine against Diphtheria Tetanus and Pertussis, DTaP). Excluding the women who contracted the diseases in the past, the main ground for refusal was the lack of information. We also demonstrated that increasing age was associated with higher odds of not being vaccinated against Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR; OR = 1.12; 95% CI = 1.04–1.21; p = 0.004), HPV (OR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.08–1.33; p = 0.001) and DTaP (OR =1.09; 95% CI = 1.01–1.18; p = 0.040). As expected, we showed that the proportion of newborns vaccinated with the Hexavalent and Pneumococcal vaccines was high (99.5% and 98.6%, respectively), while the vaccination coverage against MMRV did not reach the auspicated threshold (84.1%). Overall, these results underlined the need for the improvement of women’s knowledge about the recommendations for vaccination, especially during pregnancy.
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5
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Ethics of Vaccination in Childhood-A Framework Based on the Four Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9020113. [PMID: 33540732 PMCID: PMC7913000 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although vaccination is recognised as the top public health achievement of the twentieth century, unequivocal consensus about its beneficence does not exist among the general population. In countries with well-established immunisation programmes, vaccines are “victims of their own success”, because low incidences of diseases now prevented with vaccines diminished the experience of their historical burdens. Increasing number of vaccine-hesitant people in recent years threatens, or even effectively disables, herd immunity levels of the population and results in outbreaks of previously already controlled diseases. We aimed to apply a framework for ethical analysis of vaccination in childhood based on the four principles of biomedical ethics (respect for autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence and justice) to provide a comprehensive and applicable model on how to address the ethical aspects of vaccination at both individual and societal levels. We suggest finding an “ethical equilibrium”, which means that the degree of respect for parents’ autonomy is not constant, but variable; it shall depend on the level of established herd immunity and it is specific for every society. When the moral obligation of individuals to contribute to herd immunity is not fulfilled, mandatory vaccination policies are ethically justified, because states bear responsibility to protect herd immunity as a common good.
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Brunelli L, Valent F, Romanese F, Tricarico P, Pellizzaro A, d'Angelo M, Benetollo PP, Iob A, Forgiarini M, Brusaferro S. Parental trust and beliefs after the discovery of a six-year-long failure to vaccinate. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:583-587. [PMID: 32750274 PMCID: PMC7899632 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1777820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Italy vaccine hesitancy worsened after a failure to vaccinate episode that took place in Friuli Venezia-Giulia Region until early 2017 which undermined herd immunity by leaving unprotected more than 5,444 children. METHODS Between May and June 2017, 2,557 parents were surveyed at the local vaccination clinic where they were invited within the subsequent extraordinary vaccination campaign. The aim of the survey was to evaluate whether the multi-channel extraordinary vaccination campaign had reached the target population and to know parental beliefs and trusted sources of information after the failure to vaccinate event. RESULTS While 279 parents were non-hesitant (10.9%) and 1,491 hesitant acceptors (58.3%), just 38 (1.5%) refused to have their children revaccinated. Overall, the most consulted sources of information were print media (18.8%), physicians (16.0%), relatives and friends (12.1%). The majority of parents considered vaccination as a fundamental practice (73.9%), but many were worried about potential side effects (38.8%) or doubtful about the effectiveness of some vaccines (11.0%). According to parents, 19.7% of them (57) changed their opinion about vaccines after the Codroipo case. CONCLUSIONS After the Codroipo case, most parents chose to have their children re-vaccinated and just a little proportion refused the re-administration of vaccines. More studies are needed to confirm the importance of a coherent multi-channel communication strategy using both traditional and new media in order to counteract vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Brunelli
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università Degli Studi di Udine , Udine, Italy
| | - Francesca Valent
- Istituto di Igiene Ed Epidemiologia Clinica, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine , Udine, Italy
| | - Federico Romanese
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università Degli Studi di Udine , Udine, Italy
| | | | - Alice Pellizzaro
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università Degli Studi di Udine , Udine, Italy
| | - Matteo d'Angelo
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università Degli Studi di Udine , Udine, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Benetollo
- Azienda per l'Assistenza Sanitaria No.3 Del Friuli Venezia Giulia , Gemona, Italy
| | - Andrea Iob
- Azienda per l'Assistenza Sanitaria No.3 Del Friuli Venezia Giulia , Gemona, Italy
| | - Mariarita Forgiarini
- Azienda per l'Assistenza Sanitaria No.3 Del Friuli Venezia Giulia , Gemona, Italy
| | - Silvio Brusaferro
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università Degli Studi di Udine , Udine, Italy
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Boccalini S, Bonanni P, Chiesi F, Pisa GD, Furlan F, Giammarco B, Zanella B, Mandò Tacconi F, Bechini A. The Experience of VaccinarSinToscana Website and the Role of New Media in Promoting Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8040644. [PMID: 33153005 PMCID: PMC7712014 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Department of Health Sciences (University of Florence) developed a regional website “VaccinarSinToscana” in order to provide information on vaccines and communicate with the general population, as well as the healthcare community, at a regional and local level. The aim of this paper is to present the VaccinarSinToscana website framework and analyze the three-year activity of the website and the related social network account on Facebook in terms of dissemination and visibility. In the first three years since its launch, the VaccinarSinToscana portal has increased its visibility: the number of single users, visits and single web pages has grown exponentially. Our results also demonstrate how the Facebook account launch contributed enormously to the increase in the visibility of the website. The objective for the future of the VaccinarSinToscana portal is to grow further, in order to reach out to an even wider audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Boccalini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.B.); (P.B.); (B.Z.)
| | - Paolo Bonanni
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.B.); (P.B.); (B.Z.)
| | - Fabrizio Chiesi
- Medical Specialization School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (F.C.); (G.D.P.); (F.F.); (B.G.)
| | - Giulia Di Pisa
- Medical Specialization School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (F.C.); (G.D.P.); (F.F.); (B.G.)
| | - Federica Furlan
- Medical Specialization School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (F.C.); (G.D.P.); (F.F.); (B.G.)
| | - Barbara Giammarco
- Medical Specialization School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (F.C.); (G.D.P.); (F.F.); (B.G.)
| | - Beatrice Zanella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.B.); (P.B.); (B.Z.)
| | - Francesco Mandò Tacconi
- Nuovo Ospedale delle Apuane, North-West Tuscany LHU (Local Health Authorities), Viale Enrico Mattei, 21, 54100 Marina di Massa, Italy;
| | - Angela Bechini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.B.); (P.B.); (B.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-055-2751-081
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Porreca A, Scozzari F, Di Nicola M. Using text mining and sentiment analysis to analyse YouTube Italian videos concerning vaccination. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:259. [PMID: 32075631 PMCID: PMC7031868 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8342-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, social networks have become a popular source of information on health topics. Particularly, in Italy, there is a lively discussion on the web regarding vaccines also because there is low vaccination coverage, vaccines hesitancy, and anti-vaccine movements. For these reasons, in 2017, Institutions have introduced a law to force children to make ten compulsory vaccines for school attendance and proposed a vaccination campaign. On social networks, this law has fostered a fierce discussion between pro-vaccinations and anti-vaccinations people. This paper aims to understand if and how the population’s opinion has changed before the law and after the vaccination campaign using the titles of the videos uploaded on Youtube in these periods. Method Using co-occurrence network (CON) and sentiment analysis, we analysed the topics of YouTube Italian videos on vaccines in 2017 and 2018. Results The CON confirms that vaccinations were very disapproved before the law. Instead, after the communication campaign, people start to be less critical. The sentiment analysis shows that the intense vaccination campaign also promoted by medical doctors pushed the sentiment to change polarity from a prevailing negative opinion in 2017 (52% negative) to a positive one in 2018 (54% positive). Conclusion At the population level, the potential misinformation of social networks could be significant and is a real risk for health. Our study highlights that vaccination campaigns on social networks could be an essential instrument of health policies and a sharp weapon to fight ignorance and misrepresentations of non-qualified people influencing individuals’ decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Porreca
- Department of Economic Studies, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Viale della Pineta 4, Pescara, Italy.
| | - Francesca Scozzari
- Department of Economic Studies, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Viale della Pineta 4, Pescara, Italy
| | - Marta Di Nicola
- Department of Medical Oral Science and Biotechnology, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara Chieti, Via dei Vestini 31, Chieti, Italy
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Gori D, Costantino C, Odone A, Ricci B, Ialonardi M, Signorelli C, Vitale F, Fantini MP. The Impact of Mandatory Vaccination Law in Italy on MMR Coverage Rates in Two of the Largest Italian Regions (Emilia-Romagna and Sicily): An Effective Strategy to Contrast Vaccine Hesitancy. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8010057. [PMID: 32019092 PMCID: PMC7158674 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Vaccine hesitancy has increased worldwide, leading to reduction in vaccination coverage rates. In particular, reduction in the coverage for the trivalent Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccine has led to an increase of measles cases. The aim of this study is to analyze the coverage rates for the MMR vaccine in the Emilia-Romagna Region (RER) and Sicily Region (SR) between 2009 and 2018, and to correlate any significant change to index events which could have modified the trend of vaccination rates. Methods: Official aggregate data on vaccination coverage at 24 months provided by the RER and the SR were analyzed through trend analysis and related to important index events. Results: The two regions showed similar results; both achieved the lowest coverage rates in 2015 and both showed an increase in the rates after the introduction of mandatory vaccinations for access to schools. In 2018, both reached the starting point before the decrease. Conclusions: Our results confirm the effectiveness of legislative coercive measures in favor of vaccination. A potential decrease in the coverage rates may be observed as a result of an attenuation of the positive effects of coercive measures over time. It is thus necessary to combine these measures together with information campaigns and political initiatives at different levels (i.e., national, regional).
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Gori
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudio Costantino
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Anna Odone
- School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (A.O.); (C.S.)
| | - Beatrice Ricci
- School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (B.R.); (M.I.)
| | - Magda Ialonardi
- School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (B.R.); (M.I.)
| | - Carlo Signorelli
- School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (A.O.); (C.S.)
| | - Francesco Vitale
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Maria Pia Fantini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
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10
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Bechini A, Boccalini S, Ninci A, Zanobini P, Sartor G, Bonaccorsi G, Grazzini M, Bonanni P. Childhood vaccination coverage in Europe: impact of different public health policies. Expert Rev Vaccines 2019; 18:693-701. [PMID: 31268739 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2019.1639502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Vaccination is a crucial tool for the primary prevention of infectious diseases. Thanks to widespread vaccination, in the last century smallpox has been eradicated, and the Americas and Europe have become polio-free. Areas covered: The aim of our study was to assess vaccination coverage in childhood up to booster preschool age in order to update the analysis on European trends of immunization coverage in the last nine years (2009-2017) and to assess the impact of different national policies on vaccine uptake. Expert opinion: Despite the good results, several EU countries are going through unprecedented outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases due to insufficient coverage. The increase of vaccine hesitancy has made it difficult to reach and maintain high rates of vaccination coverage. Enforcing mandatory vaccinations is one of the strategies adopted by some countries, like Italy and France, to increase coverage. However, each country should find the most suitable way to keep up with vaccination coverages according to own cultural and organizational background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Bechini
- a Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Sara Boccalini
- a Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Alessandra Ninci
- b Medical Specialization School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Patrizio Zanobini
- b Medical Specialization School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Gino Sartor
- b Medical Specialization School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | | | - Maddalena Grazzini
- a Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Paolo Bonanni
- a Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence , Florence , Italy
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11
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Manzoli L, Gabutti G, Siliquini R, Flacco ME, Villari P, Ricciardi W. Association between vaccination coverage decline and influenza incidence rise among Italian elderly. Eur J Public Health 2019; 28:740-742. [PMID: 29590341 PMCID: PMC6051463 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cky053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
After a peak of 68.3% during the 2005–06 season, influenza vaccine coverage among Italian elderly showed an unprecedented, prolonged decline. According to the National surveillance network, the vaccination coverage was ≤50% during two of the last three seasons (2014–17). In parallel, influenza-like illness (ILI) rates increased from 2.71% in the triennium 2005–08, to 4.24% in the last triennium. A significant association was found between ILI rise and vaccine coverage decline (P = 0.036), and according to a conservative estimation, each 1% increase in coverage may prevent ≥2690 ILI cases among the elderly. A reinforcement of influenza immunization policies is strongly needed in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamberto Manzoli
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Regional Healthcare Agency of the Abruzzo Region, Pescara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Gabutti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Siliquini
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Villari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
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12
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Sheikh S, Biundo E, Courcier S, Damm O, Launay O, Maes E, Marcos C, Matthews S, Meijer C, Poscia A, Postma M, Saka O, Szucs T, Begg N. A report on the status of vaccination in Europe. Vaccine 2018; 36:4979-4992. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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13
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Odone A, Tramutola V, Morgado M, Signorelli C. Immunization and media coverage in Italy: an eleven-year analysis (2007-17). Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:2533-2536. [PMID: 29993316 PMCID: PMC6284508 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1486156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunization polices in Italy has recently reached important milestones, including the approval of the National Immunization Prevention Plan and of a new law mandatory immunization; this stimulating a lively debate at the scientific, political and societal-level, reflected on the media. We applied a model previously published to quantitatively and qualitatively assess media coverage on vaccines and immunization-related topics on the most read Italian newspaper, "Corriere della Sera", over an 11-year study period (2007-2017). We retrieved relevant key words and articles, reported on included articles' topic, position, approach to immunization and on other selected indicators' summary statistics, temporal trends and correspondence with key epidemiological and policy events. Over the study period the quote "vaccin*" was mentioned on average 325 times per year; with an increase of 150% after the approval of the new law on mandatory immunization in 2017. In the same year, on average, two first-page articles per week were published on the topic. We report a clear association between key events (i.e the H1N1 influenza pandemic, the "Fluad case", the approval of the new law on mandatory immunization) and their media coverage. Overall, 84% of articles had a positive attitude towards immunization, this share decreasing to 79% when only considering articles published after the approval of the law on mandatory vaccination. Media play a crucial role in channelling health-related information and significantly influence health behaviours. We urge public institutions, health authorities and the scientific community not to underestimate the opportunity to monitor media coverage on key healthcare topics and to convey evidence-based health education messages through the media.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Odone
- School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - V. Tramutola
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - M. Morgado
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C. Signorelli
- School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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14
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Scasso F, Ferrari G, DE Vincentiis GC, Arosio A, Bottero S, Carretti M, Ciardo A, Cocuzza S, Colombo A, Conti B, Cordone A, DE Ciccio M, Delehaye E, Della Vecchia L, DE Macina I, Dentone C, DI Mauro P, Dorati R, Fazio R, Ferrari A, Ferrea G, Giannantonio S, Genta I, Giuliani M, Lucidi D, Maiolino L, Marini G, Marsella P, Meucci D, Modena T, Montemurri B, Odone A, Palma S, Panatta ML, Piemonte M, Pisani P, Pisani S, Prioglio L, Scorpecci A, Scotto DI Santillo L, Serra A, Signorelli C, Sitzia E, Tropiano ML, Trozzi M, Tucci FM, Vezzosi L, Viaggi B. Emerging and re-emerging infectious disease in otorhinolaryngology. ACTA OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICA ITALICA : ORGANO UFFICIALE DELLA SOCIETA ITALIANA DI OTORINOLARINGOLOGIA E CHIRURGIA CERVICO-FACCIALE 2018; 38:S1-S106. [PMID: 29967548 PMCID: PMC6056203 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-suppl.1-38-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY Emerging and re-emerging infectious disease in otorhinolaryngology (ENT) are an area of growing epidemiological and clinical interest. The aim of this section is to comprehensively report on the epidemiology of key infectious disease in otorhinolaryngology, reporting on their burden at the national and international level, expanding of the need of promoting and implementing preventive interventions, and the rationale of applying evidence-based, effective and cost- effective diagnostic, curative and preventive approaches. In particular, we focus on i) ENT viral infections (HIV, Epstein-Barr virus, Human Papilloma virus), retrieving the available evidence on their oncogenic potential; ii) typical and atypical mycobacteria infections; iii) non-specific granulomatous lymphadenopathy; iv) emerging paediatric ENT infectious diseases and the prevention of their complications; v) the growing burden of antimicrobial resistance in ENT and the strategies for its control in different clinical settings. We conclude by outlining knowledge gaps and action needed in ENT infectious diseases research and clinical practice and we make references to economic analysis in the field of ENT infectious diseases prevention and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Scasso
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 3 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Micone, Genova, Italy
| | - G Ferrari
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - G C DE Vincentiis
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - A Arosio
- Clinica Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Macchi, ASST Settelaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - S Bottero
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M Carretti
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - A Ciardo
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - S Cocuzza
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - A Colombo
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Cardinal Massaia, Asti, Italy
| | - B Conti
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Cordone
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 3 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Micone, Genova, Italy
| | - M DE Ciccio
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - E Delehaye
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - L Della Vecchia
- Clinica Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Macchi, ASST Settelaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - I DE Macina
- SOC Malattie Infettive, ASL 1 Imperiese, Ospedale di Sanremo, Italy
| | - C Dentone
- SOC Malattie Infettive, ASL 1 Imperiese, Ospedale di Sanremo, Italy
| | - P DI Mauro
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - R Dorati
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - R Fazio
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - A Ferrari
- Direzione Sanitaria, AOU Parma, Italy
| | - G Ferrea
- SOC Malattie Infettive, ASL 1 Imperiese, Ospedale di Sanremo, Italy
| | - S Giannantonio
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - I Genta
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Giuliani
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - D Lucidi
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - L Maiolino
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - G Marini
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - P Marsella
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - D Meucci
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - T Modena
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - B Montemurri
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - A Odone
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - S Palma
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria di Udine (ASUIUD), Italy
| | - M L Panatta
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M Piemonte
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria di Udine (ASUIUD), Italy
| | - P Pisani
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Cardinal Massaia, Asti, Italy
| | - S Pisani
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - L Prioglio
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 3 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Micone, Genova, Italy
| | - A Scorpecci
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | | | - A Serra
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - C Signorelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy; Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - E Sitzia
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M L Tropiano
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M Trozzi
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - F M Tucci
- UOS Chirurgia Cervicale ORL, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - L Vezzosi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy; Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - B Viaggi
- SOC Neuroanestesia e Rianimazione, A.O.U. Careggi, Firenze, Italy
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15
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Biasio LR, Carducci A, Fara GM, Giammanco G, Lopalco PL. Health literacy, emotionality, scientific evidence: Elements of an effective communication in public health. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:1515-1516. [PMID: 29381399 PMCID: PMC6037460 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1434382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of healthcare providers' communication abilities is still underestimated. Informing the population on the basis of documented evidence is essential but not enough to induce a change in the beliefs of who is doubtful or does not accept preventive interventions, such as vaccination. Lining up the offer of prevention to the knowledge of the citizens, also improving Health Literacy skills, is a critical step toward their empowerment and behavior change. The 2017 Erice Declaration was drafted to propose to the Institutions and the scientific community the main goals to improve communication and counteract Vaccine Hesitancy, at a very critical time, when mandatory vaccination was introduced in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gaetano Maria Fara
- c Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases - "Sapienza" University of Rome , Rome , Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giammanco
- d Department of Hygiene and Public Health - University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Lopalco
- e Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery - University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
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16
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Bonanni P, Chiamenti G, Conforti G, Maio T, Odone A, Russo R, Scotti S, Signorelli C, Villani A. The 2016 Lifetime Immunization Schedule, approved by the Italian scientific societies: A new paradigm to promote vaccination at all ages. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2017; 13:2531-2537. [PMID: 29048980 PMCID: PMC5703359 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2017.1366394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical scientific societies have the core mission of producing, pooling and disseminating solid and updated scientific information. We report the successful experience of the partnership of four national Medical Scientific Societies active in Italy in producing scientific advice on vaccines and vaccination. In particular, i) the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health; SitI, ii) the Italian Society of Paediatrics; SIP, iii) the "Italian Federation of General Practitioners"; FIMP, and iv) the Italian Federation of General Medicine FIMMG) have worked together since 2012 to produce shared evidence-based recommendations on vaccination schedules, namely the "Lifetime Immunization Schedule" which introduced for the first time in Italy a life-course approach to vaccination. The 2014 edition of the "Lifetime Immunization Schedule" was used as a basis to develop the 2017-2019 Italian National Prevention Plan, approved by The Italian Ministry of Health in February 2017. In this report, we present the structure, content and supporting evidence of the new 2016 "Lifetime Immunization Schedule" and we expand on the influential role of medical scientific societies in researching and advocating for effective and safe vaccination programmes' implementation at the national level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bonanni
- Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health (SitI), Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Tommasa Maio
- Italian Federation of General Practitioners (FIMMG), Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Odone
- Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health (SitI), Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Russo
- Italian Society of Paediatrics (SIP), Rome, Italy
| | - Silvestro Scotti
- Italian Federation of General Practitioners (FIMMG), Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Signorelli
- Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health (SitI), Rome, Italy
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17
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Fausto F, Paolo P, Anna O, Carlo S. Excess mortality in Italy: Should we care about low influenza vaccine uptake? Scand J Public Health 2017; 46:170-174. [PMID: 29064347 DOI: 10.1177/1403494817720102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aims of this study were to explore 2015 mortality data further and to assess excess deaths' determinants. METHODS We analysed data from a large metropolitan area in the north of Italy, the city of Bologna. We took advantage of a comprehensive local-level database and merged three different data sources to analitically explore reported 2014-2015 excess mortality and its determinants. Effect estimates were derived from multivariable Poisson regression analysis, according to vaccination status and frailty index. RESULTS We report 9.8% excess mortality in 2015 compared to 2014, with seasonal and age distribution patterns in line with national figures. All-cause mortality in the elderly population is 36% higher (risk ratio [RR]=1.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27-1.45) in subjects not vaccinated against seasonal flu compared to vaccinated subjects, with risk of death for influenza or pneumonia being 43% higher (RR=1.43, 95% CI 1.02-2.00) in unvaccinated subjects. CONCLUSIONS Reported excess mortality's determinants in Italy should be further explored. Elderly subjects not vaccinated against the flu appear to have increased risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality compared to vaccinated subjects after accounting for possible confounders. Our findings raise awareness of the need to promote immunisation against the flu among elder populations and offer insights to plan and implement effective public-health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francia Fausto
- 1 Department of Public Health, Local Health Authority of Bologna, Italy
| | - Pandolfi Paolo
- 1 Department of Public Health, Local Health Authority of Bologna, Italy
| | - Odone Anna
- 2 Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Signorelli Carlo
- 2 Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.,3 School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Italy
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18
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Anello P, Cestari L, Baldovin T, Simonato L, Frasca G, Caranci N, Grazia Pascucci M, Valent F, Canova C. Socioeconomic factors influencing childhood vaccination in two northern Italian regions. Vaccine 2017; 35:4673-4680. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.07.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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19
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Signorelli C, Guerra R, Siliquini R, Ricciardi W. Italy's response to vaccine hesitancy: An innovative and cost effective National Immunization Plan based on scientific evidence. Vaccine 2017; 35:4057-4059. [PMID: 28651836 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Signorelli
- Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health (SItI), Italy.
| | - R Guerra
- Italian Ministry of Health, Italy
| | - R Siliquini
- Higher Health Council, Ministry of Health, Italy
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20
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Rosselli R, Martini M, Bragazzi NL, Watad A. The Public Health Impact of the So-Called "Fluad Effect" on the 2014/2015 Influenza Vaccination Campaign in Italy: Ethical Implications for Health-Care Workers and Health Communication Practitioners. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 973:125-134. [PMID: 28452003 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2017_39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Seasonal influenza, causing complications, hospitalizations and deaths, generates a serious socio-economic burden, especially among elderly and high-risk subjects, as well as among adult individuals. Despite the availability and active free-of charge offer of influenza vaccines, vaccine coverage rates remain low and far from the target established by the Ministry of Health. Notwithstanding their effectiveness, vaccines are victims of prejudices and false myths, that contribute to the increasing phenomenon of vaccine hesitancy and loss of confidence. Media and, in particular, new media and information and communication technologies (ICTs) play a major role in disseminating health-related information. They are extremely promising devices for delivering health education and promoting disease prevention, including immunization. However, they can also have a negative impact on population's health attitudes and behaviors when channeling wrong, misleading information. During the 2014/2015 influenza vaccination campaign, the report of four deaths allegedly caused by administration of an adjuvanted influenza vaccine, Fluad - the so-called "Fluad case" - received an important media coverage, which contributed to the failure of the vaccination campaign, dramatically reducing the influenza vaccine uptake. In the extant literature, there is a dearth of information concerning the effect of the "Fluad case". The current study aims at quantifying the impact of the "Fluad effect" at the level of the Local Health Unit 3 (LHU3) ASL3 Genovese, Genoa, Italy. Ethical implications for health-care workers and health communication practitioners are also envisaged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mariano Martini
- Section of History of Medicine and Ethics, Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- School of Public Health, Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Abdulla Watad
- Department of Medicine 'B', Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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21
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Biasio LR, Corsello G, Costantino C, Fara GM, Giammanco G, Signorelli C, Vecchio D, Vitale F. Communication about vaccination: A shared responsibility. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2016; 12:2984-2987. [PMID: 27458874 PMCID: PMC5137540 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2016.1198456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy is an important issue to be addressed, due to the risk of decrease of vaccination coverage and consequent control of preventable diseases. While it is not considered a specific determinant, poor or inadequate communication can contribute to vaccine hesitancy and negatively influence vaccination uptake. As a contribution to the ongoing discussion regarding this theme and in the perspective of the implementation of the upcoming national vaccination plan in Italy, the Erice Declaration was drafted by experts in the field of immunization following a 5-day residential, independent workshop regarding communication topics in vaccinology. The aim of the current letter is to present to the broader international audience such a contribution, proposing the identification of the main actions that should be taken into account and prioritized in order to improve communication in the domain of vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giovanni Corsello
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care “G. D'Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudio Costantino
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care “G. D'Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano M. Fara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giammanco
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carlo Signorelli
- Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translational Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Davide Vecchio
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care “G. D'Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Vitale
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care “G. D'Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Odone A, Signorelli C. What are we told? A news media monitoring model for public health and the case of vaccines. Eur J Public Health 2016; 26:533-4. [PMID: 27423000 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckw002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- A Odone
- 1 Unit of Public Health. Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translational Sciences. University of Parma, Parma, Italy,
| | - C Signorelli
- 1 Unit of Public Health. Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translational Sciences. University of Parma, Parma, Italy, 2 School of Medicine, Universitá Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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ODONE A, VISCIARELLI S, LALIC T, PEZZETTI F, SPAGNOLI F, PASQUARELLA C, FERRARI G, SIGNORELLI C. Human papillomavirus-associated cancers: a survey on otorhinolaryngologists' knowledge and attitudes on prevention. ACTA OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICA ITALICA : ORGANO UFFICIALE DELLA SOCIETA ITALIANA DI OTORINOLARINGOLOGIA E CHIRURGIA CERVICO-FACCIALE 2015; 35:379-85. [PMID: 26900242 PMCID: PMC4755048 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a recognised causal factor associated with oropharyngeal cancers. The global burden of HPVrelated oropharyngeal cancers is on the increase and is predicted to surpass the burden of cervical cancer in the near future. As evidence is accumulating on the potential effectiveness of an HPV vaccine in controlling the oropharyngeal cancer epidemic; otorhinolaryngologists assume a key role - not only in the diagnosis and treatment of HPV-related cancers - but also in educating and advocating on HPV prevention. We conducted a survey to assess Italian otorhinolaryngologists' knowledge and attitudes regarding HPV infection, HPV-related oropharyngeal diseases and cancers and available prevention measures, including vaccines. This is the first study conducted in Italy and Europe on this topic. A total of 262 Italian otorhinolaryngologists were recruited during the National Conference of the Italian Association of Otorhinolaryngologists. Our results show that Italian otorhinolaryngologists are knowledgeable regarding HPV infection and have a positive attitude towards HPV vaccine. Our findings provide a useful basis to plan, implement and evaluate targeted educational programmes and training. As we show herein, educational programmes and training specifically focusing on HPV are effective in increasing physicians' knowledge and positive attitudes towards prevention; this ultimately contributes to enhance vaccine uptake among patients and the general population. With the overall aim of controlling the burden of HPV-related cancers, resources and efforts should be devoted to promote continuing education among otorhinolaryngologists and the general medical community and to increase awareness on the role of vaccines in prevention of HPV-related cancers. In this context, there is tremendous opportunity for healthcare providers across fields to cooperate and for public health and otorhinolaryngologist communities to join forces and engage in fruitful collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. ODONE
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Unità di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy
| | - S. VISCIARELLI
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Unità di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy
| | - T. LALIC
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Unità di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy
| | - F. PEZZETTI
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Unità di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy
| | - F. SPAGNOLI
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Unità di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy
| | - C. PASQUARELLA
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Unità di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy
| | - G. FERRARI
- Dipartimento Chirurgico, Struttura Complessa di Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Spezzino, La Spezia, Italy
| | - C. SIGNORELLI
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Unità di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy
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SIGNORELLI C, CHIESA V, ODONE A. Meningococcal serogroup B vaccine in Italy: state-of-art, organizational aspects and perspectives. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2015; 56:E125-32. [PMID: 26788733 PMCID: PMC4755121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Neisseria meningitidis causes severe invasive meningococcal diseases (IMDs) in humans including meningitis and septicemia, responsible for serious clinical conditions and leading to life-long disabilities and death. Serogroup B dominates IMDs burden in Italy, accounting for over 60% of total cases. On January 2013 the European Medicine Agency (EMA) licensed the first serogroup B meningococcal (MenB) vaccine in Europe. A number of European countries and Regions have introduced the new MenB vaccine in their immunization schedule, including Italy. In this paper we present the state of art, related critical issues and future perspectives of MenB vaccine introduction in Italy, in the context of the most recent available epidemiological data. In particular, we systematically assess the ongoing processes in the 8 Italian regions and one autonomous province that have already introduced MenB vaccine. With the new 2014-2018 National Vaccine Prevention Plan including active MenB vaccine offer about to be adopted, it is of fundamental importance to gather further evidence on MenB vaccine clinical effectiveness, duration of protection and cost-effectiveness. Italian regions are called to organize and manage MenB immunization programs. Careful consideration will need to be devoted on timing, doses, and co-administration with other vaccines but also to economic assessments and strengthened communication to the general public. Our data will help to plan, implement and evaluate MenB immunization programmes in other Italian and international settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. SIGNORELLI
- Correspondence: Carlo Signorelli, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Translazionali, Università degli studi di Parma, via Volturno, 39, 43125 Parma Italy - E-mail:
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