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Alibrahim IS, Khoj AI, Alibrahim AS, Alnafei KH, Alghamdi AA, Alessa TT, Alsuwayhiri AM, Almeqaty NM. Parental Knowledge Toward Meningococcal Disease and Vaccination in Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2024; 16:e54450. [PMID: 38510876 PMCID: PMC10952056 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, which primarily affects the meninges, with a high incidence in young children. The most effective technique for preventing IMD is vaccination, which has been available for over 40 years through meningococcal polysaccharide capsule-containing vaccines. This study aims to assess the parental knowledge of meningococcal disease and vaccination in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted between September and December 2023 among 597 parents in the Makkah region using a validated online survey. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results The study sample included 597 parents, of which 339 (56.8%) were female and 258 (43.2%) were male. Our research demonstrated that 388 (65%) participants had an insufficient understanding of IMD, while 209 (35%) had a sufficient understanding. There was a significant correlation between the knowledge score and the completion of the routine vaccination and whether vaccinating a child is essential for the protection of other members of society. Conclusions Based on our study, only around one-third of the participants demonstrated a sufficient level of knowledge regarding IMD and its vaccination. To provide a more accurate assessment of the Saudi population, additional research should be conducted in various regions and cities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Khalid H Alnafei
- College of Medicine and Surgery, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, SAU
| | - Abrar A Alghamdi
- College of Medicine and Surgery, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, SAU
| | - Turki T Alessa
- College of Medicine and Surgery, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, SAU
| | | | - Naif M Almeqaty
- Department of Pediatric Emergency, Maternity and Children Hospital, Makkah, SAU
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Ponticelli D, Antonazzo IC, Losa L, Zampella A, Di Marino F, Mottola G, Fede MN, Gallucci F, Magliuolo R, Rainone A, Del Giudice C, Arcari A, Ferrara P. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Survey of Recombinant Zoster Vaccine among Cardiologists and Cardiac Nurses in Italy. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:93. [PMID: 38256354 PMCID: PMC10820166 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Cardiac patients are particularly at risk of herpes zoster (HZ), which is associated with a higher risk of major cardiovascular events. This research aimed to analyze the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) among cardiac healthcare professionals (HPs). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a cardiological hospital in Italy. Multivariate regression models were built to identify factors associated with the outcomes of interest. Results: The response rate was 78.2% (154/197). Overall, age > 50 years and immunosuppression were recognized as risk factors for HZ by 38.3% and 75.3% of respondents, respectively. Regarding RZV, 29.1% of the HPs correctly responded about its schedule and 57.6% about the possibility of administration in immunocompromised individuals. This knowledge was significantly higher in HPs with a higher educational level (odds ratio (OR) = 4.42; 95%CI 1.70-11.47), in those who knew that HZ could cause postherpetic neuralgia (OR = 2.56; 95%CI 1.05-6.25) or major cardiovascular events (OR = 4.23; 95%CI 1.50-11.91), in those who had participated in professional updates on vaccinations (OR = 3.86; 95%CI 1.51-9.87) and in those who stated the need for further information about the RZV (OR = 6.43; 95%CI 1.42-29.98). Younger HPs (coefficient (β) = -0.02; 95%CI -0.04--0.01), those with a positive attitude toward RZV safety (β = 2.92; 95%CI 2.49-3.36) and those who had previously cared for patients with HZ (β = 0.45; 95%CI 0.03-0.88) reported a more positive attitude toward RZV effectiveness. The practice of recommending vaccination was more prevalent in younger HPs (OR = 0.94; 95%CI 0.89-0.99), in those who had a master's degree or higher education (OR = 7.21; 95%CI 1.44-36.08), in those with more positive attitudes toward RZV effectiveness (OR = 7.17; 95%CI 1.71-30.03) and in HPs who had already recommended the vaccine to patients in the past (OR = 4.03; 95%CI 1.08-14.96). Conclusions: Despite being a single-center study, our research brings attention to factors that currently impact cardiac HPs' approaches to RZV. The findings indicate potential measures to enhance HPs' awareness and practices, ultimately aiming to improve vaccination adherence and reduce the burden associated with HZ.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ippazio Cosimo Antonazzo
- Center for Public Health Research, University of Milan–Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Laboratory of Public Health, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20165 Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Losa
- Center for Public Health Research, University of Milan–Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pietro Ferrara
- Center for Public Health Research, University of Milan–Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Laboratory of Public Health, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20165 Milan, Italy
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Riccò M, Corrado S, Marchesi F, Bottazzoli M. Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Vaccination among Tourists in a High-Prevalence Area (Italy, 2023): A Cross-Sectional Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:491. [PMID: 37999610 PMCID: PMC10674593 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8110491] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) represents a potential health threat for tourists in high-risk areas, including the Dolomite Mountains in northeastern Italy. The present questionnaire-based survey was, therefore, designed in order to assess knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices (KAP) in a convenience sample of Italian tourists visiting the Dolomite Mountains, who were recruited through online discussion groups. A total of 942 participants (39.2% males, with 60.2% aged under 50) filled in the anonymous survey from 28 March 2023 to 20 June 2023. Overall, 24.1% of participants were vaccinated against TBE; 13.8% claimed to have previously had tick bites, but no cases of TBE were reported. The general understanding of TBE was relatively low; while 79.9% of participants acknowledged TBE as a potentially severe disease, its occurrence was acknowledged as high/rather high or very high in the Dolomites area by only 51.6% of respondents. Factors associated with the TBE vaccine were assessed by the calculation of adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals through a logistic regression analysis model. Living in areas considered at high risk for TBE (aOR 3.010, 95%CI 2.062-4.394), better knowledge on tick-borne disorders (aOR 1.515, 95%CI 1.071-2.142), high risk perception regarding tick-borne infections (aOR 2.566, 95%CI 1.806-3.646), a favorable attitude toward vaccinations (aOR 3.824, 95%CI 1.774-8.224), and a tick bite(s) in a previous season (aOR 5.479, 95%CI 3.582-8.382) were characterized as being positively associated with TBE vaccination uptake. Conversely, being <50 years old (aOR 0.646, 95%CI, 0.458-0.913) and with a higher risk perception regarding the TBE vaccine (aOR 0.541, 95%CI 0.379-0.772) were identified as the main barriers to vaccination. In summary, tourists to the high-risk area of the Dolomites largely underestimate the potential occurrence of TBE. Even though the uptake of the TBE vaccine in this research was in line with European data, public health communication on TBE is required in order to improve acceptance of this effective preventive option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- Occupational Health and Safety Service on the Workplace/Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza Ambienti di Lavoro (SPSAL), Department of Public Health, AUSL–IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Silvia Corrado
- ASST Rhodense, Dipartimento della donna e Area Materno-Infantile, UOC Pediatria, 20024 Garbagnate Milanese, Italy;
| | - Federico Marchesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Marco Bottazzoli
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, APSS Trento, 31223 Trento, Italy;
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Kamal A, Waseem A, Siddiqa M, Ijaz M, Shakeel A, Iftikhar S. Contextual factors influencing incomplete immunization and investigation of its geospatial heterogeneity in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study based on PDHS (2017-18). BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1620. [PMID: 37620868 PMCID: PMC10463638 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16508-8] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunization is one of the most effective public health initiatives, saving millions of lives and lowering the risk of diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, influenza, and measles. Immunization saves an estimated 2-3 million lives per year. A study of the regional variations in incomplete immunization will be useful in identifying gaps in the performance of immunization programs that are not noticed by standard vaccination programs monitoring. The primary goal of this study was to identify factors influencing child immunization status and to examine regional variations in incomplete immunization among children aged 12 to 23 months in Pakistan. METHODS For the current study, the data were taken from the Demographic and Health Survey for Pakistan (PDHS 2017-2018). Ever-married women who had children aged 12-23 months were included in this study. The immunization status of children was used as an outcome variable. In order to determine the effects of different factors on incomplete immunization, multilevel logistic model was used. To study the geographical variation of incomplete immunization, hotspot analysis was done using ArcGIS 10.7 and SaTScan software and to identify significant predictors of incomplete immunization, GWR 4 software was used. RESULTS Place of delivery, gender of child, mother's educational level and region were identified as significant determinants of incomplete immunization of children in Pakistan. Chances of incomplete immunization of children were found significantly lower for educated mothers (AOR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.34-0.79) and mothers who had delivered children in the health facilities (AOR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.32-0.83). Female children were more likely (AOR = 1.44, 1.95% CI 1.04-1.99) to be incompletely immunized as compared to male children. FATA (AOR = 11.19, 95% CI 4.89-25.6), and Balochistan (AOR = 10.94, 95% CI 5.08-23.58) were found at the highest risk of incomplete immunization of children as compared to Punjab. The significant spatial heterogeneity of incomplete immunization was found across Pakistan. The spatial distribution of incomplete immunization was clustered all over Pakistan. The high prevalence of incomplete immunization was observed in Balochistan, South Sindh, North Sindh, South KPK, South FATA, Gilgit Baltistan, Azad Jammu Kashmir, South and East Punjab. Drang and Harcho were identified as hotspot areas of incomplete immunization in Gilgit Baltistan. Secondary clusters with a high risk of incomplete immunization were found in regions Balochistan, Sindh and FATA. CONCLUSION Gender biasedness towards female children, regarding complete immunization of children prevailed in Pakistan. Spatial heterogeneity was also found for incomplete immunization of children. To overcome the problem access to health facilities is the foremost step. Government should target hotspot areas of incomplete immunization of children to provide primary health care facilities by opening health care units in these areas. The government in collaboration with the media should launch awareness campaigns in those areas to convince people that complete immunization is the right of every child regardless of gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asifa Kamal
- Department of Statistics, Lahore College for Women, University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Waseem
- Department of Statistics, Lahore College for Women, University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Siddiqa
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, International Islamic University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ijaz
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan.
| | - Abeera Shakeel
- Department of Statistics, Lahore College for Women, University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Soofia Iftikhar
- Department of Statistics, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
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Ballalai I, Dawson R, Horn M, Smith V, Bekkat-Berkani R, Soumahoro L, Vicic N. Understanding barriers to vaccination against invasive meningococcal disease: a survey of the knowledge gap and potential solutions. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023; 22:457-467. [PMID: 37144283 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2211163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a leading cause of life-threatening bacterial meningitis and septicemia. Evidence points to a knowledge gap among parents, teenagers, and healthcare providers (HCPs) regarding IMD and available vaccines, including those against the highly prevalent serogroup B. AREAS COVERED An online survey was conducted between March 27 and April 12, 2019, to gather insights into the knowledge that parents/guardians have about IMD vaccines. The children were aged 2 months-10 years in Australia, Brazil, Germany, Greece, Italy, and Spain, 5-20 years in the UK, and 16-23 years in the US. The findings were discussed in the context of the available literature and solutions were proposed to minimize the knowledge gap and the barriers to vaccination against IMD. EXPERT OPINION The survey demonstrated that parents have a good understanding of IMD but a limited understanding of the different serogroups and vaccines. The available literature highlighted multiple barriers to IMD vaccine uptake; these may be reduced through education of HCPs, clear recommendations to parents by HCPs, the use of technology, and disease-awareness initiatives that engage parents through physical and digital channels. Further studies are warranted to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on IMD vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rob Dawson
- Meningitis Research Foundation, Bristol, UK
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Invasive Meningococcal Disease and Meningococcal Serogroup B Vaccination in Adults and Their Offspring: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Italy (2019). Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11030508. [PMID: 36992092 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11030508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite its effectiveness in preventing invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), pediatric uptake of recombinant meningococcal vaccination for serogroup B meningitis (MenB) is low in Italy. This study aimed to investigate knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) about IMD and the vaccine uptake for MenB from July to December 2019, in a sample collected from a series of local Facebook discussion groups from the provinces of Parma and Reggio Emilia (North-Eastern Italy; 337,104 registered users). A self-administered anonymous web-based questionnaire was used to collect demographics, knowledge status, perceived risk for contracting meningitis, attitude towards the utility of meningococcal vaccine, and willingness to receive/perform MenB vaccine in their offspring. In total, 541 parents returned a fully completed questionnaire (response rate of 1.6% of potential recipients), with a mean age of 39.2 years ± 6.3 (78.1% females). Meningococcal infection was identified as severe or highly severe by most participants (88.9%), while it was recognized as being frequent/highly frequent in the general population by 18.6% of respondents. The overall knowledge status was unsatisfactory (57.6% ± 33.6 of correct answers to the knowledge test). Even though 63.4% of participants were somewhat favorable to MenB/MenC vaccines, offspring’s vaccination towards MenB was reported by only 38.7% of participants. In a binary logistic regression model, the male gender of respondents (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.184, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.772 to 5.721), living in a municipality >15,000 inhabitants (aOR 1.675, 95%CI 1.051 to 2.668), reporting a favorable attitude on meningococcus B vaccine (aOR 12.472, 95%CI 3.030 to 51.338), having been vaccinated against serogroup B (aOR 5.624, 95%CI 1.936 to 16.337) and/or serogroup C (aOR 2.652, 95%CI 1.442 to 4.872), and having previously vaccinated their offspring against serogroup C meningococcus (aOR 6.585, 95%CI 3.648 to 11.888) were characterized as positive effectors of offspring’s vaccination. On the contrary, having a higher risk perception on vaccines was identified as the only negative effector (aOR 0.429, 95%CI 0.241 to 0.765). Our results hint towards extensive knowledge gaps on IMD and preventive interventions in the general population, suggesting that a positive attitude towards vaccines and vaccinations could be identified as the main effector also for MenB acceptance. Interventions in the general population aimed at improving confidence, compliance, and acknowledgment of the collective responsibility, as well as preventing actual constraints and the sharing of false beliefs on infectious diseases and their preventive measures, could therefore increase vaccination acceptance in both targeted individuals and their offspring.
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Public health perspective of a pentavalent meningococcal vaccine combining antigens of MenACWY-CRM and 4CMenB. J Infect 2022; 85:481-491. [PMID: 36087745 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a life-threatening disease that can rapidly progress to death or leave survivors with severe, life-long sequelae. Five meningococcal serogroups (A, B, C, W and Y) account for nearly all IMD. Meningococcal serogroup distribution fluctuates over time across the world and age groups. Here, we consider the potential public health impact of a pentavalent MenABCWY vaccine developed to help further control meningococcal disease and improve immunisation rates. RESULTS The GSK MenABCWY vaccine combines the antigenic components of MenACWY-CRM (Menveo®) and 4CMenB (Bexsero®), building on a wide body of clinical experience and real-world evidence. Both approved vaccines have acceptable safety profiles, demonstrate immunogenicity, and are broadly used, including in national immunisation programmes in several countries. Since the advent of quadrivalent vaccines, public health in relation to IMD has improved, with a decline in the overall incidence of IMD and an increase in vaccine coverage. CONCLUSION A pentavalent MenABCWY has the potential to provide further public health benefits through practical, broad IMD protection programmes encompassing serogroups A, B, C, W and Y, and is currently in late-stage development.
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Di Giuseppe G, Pelullo CP, Volgare AS, Napolitano F, Pavia M. Parents' Willingness to Vaccinate Their Children With COVID-19 Vaccine: Results of a Survey in Italy. J Adolesc Health 2022; 70:550-558. [PMID: 35305792 PMCID: PMC8767903 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the parents' willingness to vaccinate their children with the COVID-19 vaccine and related determinants with specific attention to willingness for adolescents as compared to younger children. METHODS Data were collected through a confidential online questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 607 parents agreed to participate. More than two-thirds of the parents had good knowledge about the modes of transmission of COVID-19, knew that subjects of any age may be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and 85.5% correctly indicated the main behavioral preventive measures against COVID-19. With regard to attitudes, 78.7% agreed that COVID-19 is a serious disease, whereas only 42.3% agreed that it is preventable. Overall, 68.5% were willing to vaccinate their children with the COVID-19 vaccine, specifically 74.5% of parents of adolescents and 65.5% of those of younger children, and the results of the multivariate analysis showed that parents of adolescents aged 12-15 years or 16-18 years compared to those of children aged 11 years or less, those who had more than two children, those who reported that their children had been visited by the primary care pediatrician/physician in the previous 12 months, those who agreed that COVID-19 is a serious disease, considered very useful the COVID-19 vaccine, had been vaccinated against influenza in the previous season, and had received at least one shot of COVID-19 vaccine were more likely to be willing to vaccinate their children. CONCLUSION In conclusion, a relevant proportion of parents are willing to vaccinate their children, with the parents of adolescents showing a higher willingness compared to those of younger children. However, there is still room for reducing hesitancy and refusal of the COVID-19 vaccine in this strategic population group by promoting communication to mitigate concerns toward the COVID-19 vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Maria Pavia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
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Bocek Aker E, Doganer YC, Aydogan U, Koc SN, Yalcin EE, Bolat A. Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of Families Applying to A Training and Research Hospital Pediatric Clinic About Childhood Vaccinations. EURASIAN JOURNAL OF FAMILY MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.33880/ejfm.2022110103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Aim: Our study aimed to determine factors affecting the level of knowledge of families about pediatric vaccination and their attitudes and behaviors towards vaccination.
Methods: This study with a descriptive, cross-sectional design included 595 families. The families have completed a 31-items questionnaire. Each correct answer for knowledge questions was rated as 1 point while each incorrect answer or unanswered question was rated as 0 points. The total score was calculated for each participant and compared with demographic data.
Results: Mean children’s age was 3.9±0.1 years and 48.2% (n=287) were girls. 77.1% (n=459) participants were mothers. Of the families included, 99% reported that they got their children vaccinated regularly and 85.9% (n=511) reported that they got their children vaccinated in Family Health Centers. The families reported that they were mostly informed by healthcare providers. Based on multivariate regression analysis, it was found that there was a significant correlation between the level of knowledge of participants and child's age, total income level, maternal education level, maternal employment status, presence of chronic disease.
Conclusion: Provision of primary healthcare services and in-service training of healthcare providers to maintain continuity of healthcare services are highly important in improving the level of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of families.
Keywords: family, vaccines, knowledge, attitude, behavior
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Bocek Aker
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Health Sciences Samsun Training and Research Hospital
| | - Yusuf Cetin Doganer
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Gulhane Faculty of Medicine
| | - Umit Aydogan
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Gulhane Faculty of Medicine
| | - Sema Nur Koc
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Gulhane Faculty of Medicine
| | | | - Ahmet Bolat
- Department of Child Health and Diseases, University of Health Sciences, Gulhane Faculty of Medicine
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Burokiene S, Mesceriakova V, Navickaite A, Kairys J, Usonis V. A questionnaire-based study to assess knowledge and attitudes to meningococcal disease and prevention among parents of children up to two years in Lithuania. Cent Eur J Public Health 2022; 29:259-264. [PMID: 35026063 DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a6206] [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: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In July 2018, vaccine against meningococcal B infection in Lithuania was added to the national vaccination calendar. However, vaccination rates were low. The aim of the study was to identify parents' attitudes towards meningococcal disease and vaccination. METHODS In the period from February to March 2019, a questionnaire survey was conducted; 483 parents of children aged up to 2 years participated. In the validated questionnaire respondents provided data on their gender, education, age and answered questions that helped to estimate knowledge and attitudes towards meningococcal disease and vaccination. RESULTS Parents with higher education are more likely to believe that meningococcal infection can be prevented; 316 (65.4%) parents are concerned that their child is at high risk of infection and evaluated the level of anxiety M = 7.39, SD = 2.29 out of 10 points; 309 (64.0%) believe that the vaccine is effective (M = 8.41; SD = 1.15 out of 10 points). One third of parents will not vaccinate their children because they believe that the MenB vaccine is not safe (71.2%); 370 (76.6%) have heard negative information about this vaccine, the majority (83.2%) from the Internet. The negative information received is positively correlated with the belief that the vaccine is not effective (r = 0.18, p = 0.031) and not safe (r = 0.35, p < 0.001); 49.3% of parents report side effects after vaccination; 326 (67.5%) parents believe that they need more evidence-based information on MenB vaccination and 90.8% would like to get it from a healthcare professional. CONCLUSIONS Due to high level of mistrust of vaccines and the lack of evidence-based information, parents decide not to vaccinate their children against meningococcal B infection. There is a great need for parents' education and the dissemination of evidence-based information among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigita Burokiene
- Clinic of Children's Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | | | - Jonas Kairys
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vytautas Usonis
- Clinic of Children's Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Pinto Cardoso G, Lagrée-Chastan M, Caseris M, Gaudelus J, Haas H, Leroy JP, Bakhache P, Pujol JF, Werner A, Dommergues MA, Pauquet E, Pinquier D. Overview of meningococcal epidemiology and national immunization programs in children and adolescents in 8 Western European countries. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1000657. [PMID: 36507149 PMCID: PMC9727280 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1000657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Europe, meningococcal (Men) vaccines are available against 5 of the 6 serogroups responsible of nearly all cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). Meningococcal vaccination has been introduced in the national immunization programs (NIPs) for children and adolescents of numerous European countries, but with no consistent strategy across countries. OBJECTIVES To describe IMD epidemiology, NIPs, and vaccination coverage rates (VCRs) in children and adolescents in 8 Western European countries. METHODS Epidemiological data (from 1999 to 2019), NIPs regarding meningococcal vaccination status, and VCRs were collected from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and/or national websites. RESULTS MenB was the most common serogroup. In Belgium, Spain, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom (UK), and Portugal, incidence was greater for MenW than MenC. In 2019, MenB risk was covered in 2 countries (Italy, UK). MenC risk was covered in all countries, via MenC only (countries: N = 3), MenACWY only (N = 2), or MenC (infants/children) and MenACWY (adolescents) (N = 3) vaccination. VCRs were higher in children than adolescents. CONCLUSION Our study confirmed the diversity of NIPs, including in neighboring European countries with similar factors like economic resources and epidemiological risk, thus indicating that other factors underlie NIPs. Convergence toward a more common immunization program including MenACWY and MenB vaccination would promote equity and safe travel regarding infectious diseases for young people, and possibly improve the understanding of vaccination by patients and healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëlle Pinto Cardoso
- Service de Pédiatrie Néonatale et Réanimation, University of Rouen Normandy, CHU Rouen, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, Rouen, France
| | - Marion Lagrée-Chastan
- Urgences Pédiatriques et Maladies Infectieuses, CHU Lille, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Lille Cedex, France
| | | | - Joël Gaudelus
- Service de Pédiatrie, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Bondy Cedex, France
| | - Hervé Haas
- Service de Pédiatrie - Néonatalogie, Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace, Monaco Cedex, Monaco
| | - Jean-Philippe Leroy
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, DIIM/SIBM, CHU Rouen, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, Rouen, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Emilie Pauquet
- Unité de Néonatologie, Soins Intensifs Néonataux, Hôpital des Enfants, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux Cedex, France
| | - Didier Pinquier
- Service de Pédiatrie Néonatale et Réanimation, University of Rouen Normandy, CHU Rouen, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, Rouen, France
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12
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Giannakou K, Kyprianidou M, Hadjikou A, Fakonti G, Photiou G, Tzira E, Heraclides A. Knowledge of mothers regarding children's vaccinations in Greece: an online cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2119. [PMID: 34794423 PMCID: PMC8600348 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12179-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the main reasons that influence parental choice to postpone or avoid children's vaccination is insufficient knowledge. Mothers' knowledge can be considered as an important factor when determining childcare, as they are often the primary decision maker for their children's healthcare issues. This study aimed to assess the level of mothers' knowledge and practice on certain aspects of vaccination for their child/children in Greece. METHODS This was an online cross-sectional survey, which collected information about mother's socio-demographic characteristics, vaccination-related information, and vaccine knowledge using a self-administered questionnaire. The survey was conducted between April 2020 and June 2020 and the study population included mothers over 18 years old with at least one child (< 18 years old), living in four broad geographical areas of Greece (Attica, Central Greece, North Greece, and Crete/Aegean Islands). RESULTS A total of 1885 Greek mothers participated in the study. The majority stated that they vaccined their child/children (98%), and the most popular source of information about vaccination was their child's pediatrician (89%). About half of participants (52%) have delayed their child/children vaccination with their pediatrician's suggestion being the main driver. The median knowledge score was 11 which indicates a high knowledge level for childhood vaccination among Greek mothers. Multiple linear regression analysis identified an inverse association between education and knowledge score, characterized by higher knowledge scores among individuals with secondary and even higher among those with higher education. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the strict adherence to the prescribed dosage as indicated by the local recommendations for each vaccine, was associated with most of the knowledge items included in the study. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that the vast majority of mothers in Greece did vaccinate their child/children, while pediatricians appear to have a very influential role in mothers' decision making. High knowledge around vaccination was associated with mothers' educational attainment, being particularly high among those who completed higher education. Considerable attention is required from public health authorities to promote vaccination through educational programs and campaigns, particularly aimed at people with lower educational attainment. Additionally, improving communication between pediatricians and mothers to reach those women who have not decided to vaccinate or delayed vaccination for their children, may prove to be very beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Giannakou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenes Str. Engomi, 2404, P.O. Box: 22006, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Maria Kyprianidou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenes Str. Engomi, 2404, P.O. Box: 22006, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Cyprus International Institute for Environmental and Public Health, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Andria Hadjikou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenes Str. Engomi, 2404, P.O. Box: 22006, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Georgia Fakonti
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenes Str. Engomi, 2404, P.O. Box: 22006, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Galatia Photiou
- Cyprus International Institute for Environmental and Public Health, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Eleana Tzira
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenes Str. Engomi, 2404, P.O. Box: 22006, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Alexandros Heraclides
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenes Str. Engomi, 2404, P.O. Box: 22006, 1516, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Richardson E, Ryan KA, Lawrence RM, Harle CA, Young A, Livingston MD, Rawal A, Staras SAS. Perceptions and Knowledge About the MenB Vaccine Among Parents of High School Students. J Community Health 2021; 46:808-816. [PMID: 33389475 PMCID: PMC8316167 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-020-00954-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Serogroup B meningococcal disease (MenB) causes almost 60% of meningitis cases among adolescents and young adults. Yet, MenB vaccine coverage among adolescents remains below 10%. Since parents are the primary medical decision makers for adolescents, we examined MenB vaccination rates and parent attitudes about meningitis and the MenB vaccine. In 2018, in conjunction with a county-wide, school-based immunization campaign, we conducted a mixed methods study among parents of 16- to 17-year-olds. We facilitated focus groups asking parents about their knowledge of meningitis and reactions to educational materials and sent behavioral surveys based on Health Belief Model constructs to parents through the county high school system. Parents in three focus groups (n = 8; participation rate = 13%) expressed confusion about their child's need to receive the MenB vaccine in addition to the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY), but conveyed strong trust in their physicians' recommendation. Among survey participants (n = 170), 70 (41%) had heard of the MenB vaccine. Among those 70 parents, the most common barriers to vaccination were concerns about side effects (55%) and uncertainty of susceptibility due to receipt of the MenACWY vaccine (30%). The percentage of teens that received at least one dose of the MenB vaccine was 50% (n = 35) by parent report and 23% (n = 16) by state vaccination records. Parents demonstrated uncertainty and confusion about the MenB vaccine particularly due to the existence of another meningitis vaccine and limited health care provider recommendations. Confirmatory studies of parent confusion about the MenB vaccine are needed to develop interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Richardson
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kathleen A Ryan
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Robert M Lawrence
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Christopher A Harle
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alyson Young
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Stephanie A S Staras
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- The Institute for Child Health Policy, University of Florida, 2004 Mowry Road, Room 2238, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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14
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Scanferla E, Gorwood P, Fasse L. Familial experience of acute bacterial meningitis in children: a transversal qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047465. [PMID: 34285009 PMCID: PMC8292830 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To capture the subjective experience of close family ascendants of acute bacterial meningitis survivors and to explore how they give meaning to this specific experience. DESIGN A qualitative study of indepth interviews using interpretative phenomenological analysis. PRIMARY OUTCOME Main meaning-making processes of participants' experience. SETTINGS Participants were recruited through two associations of people affected by meningitis and their family ascendants. PARTICIPANTS Convenience sampling of 11 women whose children or grandchildren were between 0.2 and 20 years old at the time of their meningitis diagnosis (M=4.06, SD=7.3). On average, 9.39 (SD=5.4) years had passed between the onset of illness and the interview. RESULTS Six superordinate themes (meningitis disease; healthcare services and professionals; knowledge/ignorance; repercussions of the meningitis experience: 'life afterwards'; sick child attitudes/behaviour; and sibling attitudes/behaviour) and two main meaning-making processes in relation to participants' experience of meningitis were identified: (1) the sick child becoming a 'hero': comparison with other children; and (2) engaging action/attitude: finding the 'positive' of the traumatic experience and engaging action to improve the care system. These two processes underpin the psychological adjustment to meningitis and its consequences. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a unique insight into close family members' first-hand experience with acute bacterial meningitis. Findings highlighted factors characterising the disease experience, the psychological adjustment of meningitis survivors' families and their meaning-making processes. These findings are important for research and clinical practice, demonstrating the multidimensional impact of the disease on family ascendants, their need for professional psychological support and the importance of direct involvement of parents in identifying key aspects of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Scanferla
- CMME (Clinique des Maladies Mentales et de l'Encéphale), GHU Paris psychiatrie et neurosciences, Paris, France
- ED 450, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Philip Gorwood
- CMME (Clinique des Maladies Mentales et de l'Encéphale), GHU Paris psychiatrie et neurosciences, Paris, France
- U1266, INSERM, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris (IPNP), Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Léonor Fasse
- LPPS, EA4057, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Département de Soins de Support, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
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15
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Di Giuseppe G, Pelullo CP, Della Polla G, Pavia M, Angelillo IF. Exploring the Willingness to Accept SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine in a University Population in Southern Italy, September to November 2020. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:275. [PMID: 33803730 PMCID: PMC8003195 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9030275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding whether members of the university population are willing to receive a future vaccination against COVID-19 and identifying barriers may help public health authorities to develop effective strategies and interventions to contain COVID-19. This cross-sectional study explored the willingness to accept a future SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in a university population in Southern Italy. The perceived risk level of developing COVID-19 was 6.5 and it was significantly higher among females, younger subjects, and those who agreed/strongly agreed that COVID-19 is a severe disease. Only 21.4% of respondents were not worried at all regarding the safety of the vaccine. Males, not being married/cohabitant, being a faculty member, those who perceived a lower risk of developing COVID-19, and those who did not need information regarding the vaccination against COVID-19 were significantly more likely to have no concern at all regarding the safety of the vaccine. The vast majority (84.1%) were willing to receive a future vaccine against COVID-19. Almost coherently with predictors of concern on the safety of the vaccine, being male, not being married/cohabitant, being a faculty member, not being concerned at all that COVID-19 vaccination might not be safe, and agreeing that COVID-19 can have serious health consequences were significant predictors of the willingness to receive the vaccine against COVID-19. A considerable proportion of the population had a positive willingness to receive the future COVID-19 vaccine, although some concerns have been expressed regarding the effectiveness and safety and public health activities seem necessary to achieve the rate that can lead to the protection of the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Di Giuseppe
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. Armanni 5, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Concetta Paola Pelullo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. Armanni 5, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Giorgia Della Polla
- Health Direction, Teaching Hospital of the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via S. Maria di Costantinopoli 104, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Maria Pavia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. Armanni 5, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Italo Francesco Angelillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. Armanni 5, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.); (M.P.)
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16
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Why the Anti-Meningococcal B Vaccination during Adolescence Should Be Implemented in Italy: An Overview of Available Evidence. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111681. [PMID: 33138142 PMCID: PMC7692044 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although meningococcal disease has a low incidence in Italy, it is a public health concern owing to its high lethality rate and high frequency of transitory and/or permanent sequelae among survivors. The highest incidence rates are recorded in infants, children and adolescents, and most of the cases are due to Neisseria meningitidis B. In Italy, anti-meningococcal B (anti-MenB) vaccination is free for infants but, despite the considerable disease burden in adolescents, no national recommendation to vaccinate in this age-group is currently available. The aim of this study was to assess the main available scientific evidence to support the Italian health authorities in implementing a program of free anti-MenB vaccination for adolescents. We conducted an overview of the scientific literature on epidemiology, disease burden, immunogenicity and safety of available vaccines, and economic evaluations of vaccination strategies. Each case of invasive meningococcal disease generates a considerable health burden (lethality rate: 9%; up to 60% of patients experience at least one sequela) in terms of impaired quality of life for survivors and high direct and indirect costs (the mean overall cost of acute phase for a single case amounts to about EUR 13,952; the costs for post-acute and the long-term phases may vary widely depending of the type of sequela, reaching an annual cost of about EUR 100,000 in cases of severe neurological damage). Furthermore, vaccination against meningococcus B in adolescence proved cost-effective. The study highlights the need to actively offer the anti-MenB vaccination during adolescence at a national level. This would make it possible to avoid premature deaths and reduce the high costs borne by the National Health Service and by society of supporting survivors who suffer temporary and/or permanent sequelae.
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17
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CELLA PAOLA, VOGLINO GIANLUCA, BARBERIS ILARIA, ALAGNA ENRICO, ALESSANDRONI CLAUDIA, CUDA ALESSANDRO, D’ALOISIO FRANCESCO, DALLAGIACOMA GIULIA, DE NITTO SARA, DI GASPARE FRANCESCA, GALLIPOLI ORIANA, GENTILE LEANDRO, KUNDISOV LUCIA, NAVARO MONICA, PROVENZANO SANDRO, SANTANGELO OMARENZO, STEFANIZZI PASQUALE, GIANFREDI VINCENZA. Resources for assessing parents' vaccine hesitancy: a systematic review of the literature. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2020; 61:E340-E373. [PMID: 33150224 PMCID: PMC7595070 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2020.61.3.1448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The concept of Vaccine Hesitancy has begun to appear in the scientific landscape, referring to the reluctance of a growing proportion of people to accept the vaccination offer. A variety of factors were identified as being associated with vaccine hesitancy but there was no universal algorithm and currently there aren’t any established metrics to assess either the presence or impact of vaccine hesitancy. The aim of this study was to systematically review the published questionnaires evaluating parental vaccine hesitancy, to highlight the differences among these surveys and offer a general overview on this matter. This study offers a deeper perspective on the available questionnaires, helping future researches to identify the most suitable one according to their own aim and study setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- PAOLA CELLA
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - GIANLUCA VOGLINO
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Public Health, University of Turin, Italy
| | - ILARIA BARBERIS
- Health Science Department, University of Genoa, Italy
- Correspondence: Ilaria Barberis, Health Science Department, University of Genoa, largo Rosanna Benzi 10, Pad. 3 San Martino Hospital, Italy - Tel./Fax +39 010 3538502 - E-mail:
| | - ENRICO ALAGNA
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - CLAUDIA ALESSANDRONI
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - ALESSANDRO CUDA
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - FRANCESCO D’ALOISIO
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - GIULIA DALLAGIACOMA
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - SARA DE NITTO
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy
| | - FRANCESCA DI GASPARE
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - ORIANA GALLIPOLI
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - LEANDRO GENTILE
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - LUCIA KUNDISOV
- Post Graduate School of Public Health, University of Siena, Italy
| | - MONICA NAVARO
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Italy
| | - SANDRO PROVENZANO
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - OMAR ENZO SANTANGELO
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - PASQUALE STEFANIZZI
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy
| | - VINCENZA GIANFREDI
- Post Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy
- School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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18
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Meningococcal Disease and Related Vaccinations: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Healthcare Workers Who Provide Care to Patients with Underlying High-Risk Medical Conditions. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030543. [PMID: 32961847 PMCID: PMC7565007 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding meningococcal disease and related vaccinations among healthcare workers (HCWs) who provided care to patients with underlying high-risk medical conditions. A total of 411 HCWs returned the survey. Only 35% of the respondents had a good knowledge about the incidence and lethality of meningococcal disease, the most frequent serogroups in Italy and the diseases or conditions that expose patients to a high-risk of severe complications caused by meningococcal disease. Vaccination against meningococcal disease was perceived to be highly effective by 38.4% of participants, very safe by 36.2%, and 82% agreed or strongly agreed that HCWs should promote adherence to recommended vaccinations even in hesitant patients. Moreover, 34.1% recommended meningococcal vaccinations to all eligible patients and the results of the multivariate analysis showed that older HCWs, who work in pediatric/neonatal wards, have good knowledge about meningococcal vaccinations, have a favourable attitude towards vaccinations, and do not need additional information about meningococcal vaccinations, were more likely to recommend meningococcal vaccinations to all eligible patients. Interventions aimed at the enhancement of knowledge and awareness of HCWs who provide care to these patients on the benefits of meningococcal vaccinations are warranted.
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Boccalini S, Bechini A, Sartor G, Paolini D, Innocenti M, Bonanni P, Panatto D, Lai PL, Zangrillo F, Marchini F, Lecini E, Iovine M, Amicizia D, Landa P. [Health Technology Assessment of meningococcal B vaccine (Trumenba ®) in adolescent in Italy]. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2019; 60:E1-E94. [PMID: 32047867 PMCID: PMC7007189 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2019.60.3s2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Boccalini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Firenze
| | - A Bechini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Firenze
| | - G Sartor
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Firenze
| | - D Paolini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Firenze
| | - M Innocenti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Firenze
| | - P Bonanni
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Firenze
| | - D Panatto
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - P L Lai
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - F Zangrillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - F Marchini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - E Lecini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - M Iovine
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - D Amicizia
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Genova
| | - P Landa
- Dipartimento di Economia, Università degli Studi di Genova
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20
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Diabetes Prevention: Knowledge and Perception of Risk among Italian Population. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:2753131. [PMID: 31781605 PMCID: PMC6875189 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2753131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The risk perception for developing diabetes has not been well established. The aim of this study is to evaluate knowledge and perception of risk for developing diabetes. A cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 527 parents of children attending public schools in Naples (Italy). A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was used to collect the data. In total, 97.3% of participants have heard about diabetes, but only 16.7% knew the main risk and protective factors. This knowledge was statistically significantly higher in those who had close relatives with diabetes. Moreover, those who had middle school or lower and high school education, compared with those who had a college degree or higher, were less knowledgeable. The mean total value of the risk perception for developing diabetes was 1.9. Females those who had more than 40 years of age, those who needed of additional information, those who had a higher BMI, those who had close relatives with diabetes, those who had at least one chronic disease, and those who reported a lower value of self-rated health status were more likely to perceive a higher risk for developing diabetes. Moreover, this perception was statistically significantly lower among those who had a middle school or lower and high school education, compared with those who had a college degree or higher. The knowledge about diabetes needs to be improved, and the low risk perception for developing diabetes among the sample is worrying given the severity of the disease and the preventive measures available.
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Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices about Exclusive Breastfeeding among Women in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16122118. [PMID: 31207988 PMCID: PMC6617343 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16122118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of women about breastfeeding in Italy. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was carried out between January and June 2016 in the Campania Region among mothers who were going to six public vaccination centers. Data were collected by two researchers through face to face interviews. RESULTS Two thirds of the women had heard on exclusive breastfeeding (64.6%) and the 71% of them knew that exclusive breastfeeding should be practiced for at least six months. Nearly all mothers had breastfed their child (93.2%), but only 33.3% of them had practiced exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months. Women who agree that breastfeeding creates a positive relationship between the mother and the child, who practiced exclusive breastfeeding during the hospital stay, and who had received breastfeeding advice at hospital discharge were more likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months. CONCLUSIONS The results of this survey may be helpful to policy makers and managers when planning educational interventions on breastfeeding both during pregnancy and during hospital admissions for delivery. Indeed, there is a need to increase efforts to make mothers aware of health benefits of breastfeeding for themselves and their offspring during their hospital stay after delivery. This research has the potential to increase exclusive breastfeeding rates and subsequent maternal and child health outcomes.
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Napolitano F, Della Polla G, Angelillo IF. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Parents towards Recommended Adult Vaccinations: An Explanatory Survey in the Geographic Area of Naples, Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16122070. [PMID: 31212739 PMCID: PMC6616468 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16122070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The purposes of this study were to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards the recommended vaccinations for adults between 19–64 years of age and the associated factors among parents. The survey was conducted from October to December 2018 among a sample of parents randomly selected from five preschools and primary, secondary, and high schools in the geographic area of Naples, Italy. The mean age of participants was 45.2 years (range 19–71). Only 16% of the parents knew all vaccinations recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Those being healthcare professionals, having a chronic condition, having received information about vaccinations from physicians, and having a lower educational level were more likely to know the vaccinations recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Female participants, those who had received information about vaccinations from physicians, and those who had a lower number of children were more likely to have a positive attitude toward the usefulness of the administration of vaccinations recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Among unvaccinated respondents, more than half reported a positive attitude toward willingness to receive a recommended vaccination. This positive attitude was significantly higher among those who considered vaccinations as being useful and among who had received information from physicians. Only 16.9% self-reported to have received at least one vaccination recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Those who were healthcare professionals, who had at least one chronic condition, and who considered the administration of the vaccinations as being useful were more likely to have received at least one recommended vaccination. Greater efforts by policy makers and healthcare providers are needed to increase parents’ knowledge on recommended vaccines, and it is also crucial that healthcare providers have a high knowledge and favorable attitudes in order to increase vaccine coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Napolitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via L. Armanni, 5 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Della Polla
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via L. Armanni, 5 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Italo Francesco Angelillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via L. Armanni, 5 80138 Naples, Italy.
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Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors toward Eating Disorders among Adolescents in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16081448. [PMID: 31022867 PMCID: PMC6518148 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16081448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this survey were to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward eating disorders among adolescents in Italy. The survey was undertaken between May and June 2017 among a random sample of 420 adolescents aged 14-20 years. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Only 22.8% correctly knew both the definition of anorexia and bulimia nervosa. Female, overweight or obese individuals, and who had at least one parent with a college degree or higher level of education were more likely to have this knowledge. More than one third (38.8%) had a fear of getting fat. Female, overweight or obese individuals, who did not know the definition of anorexia and bulimia nervosa, who avoided eating when they were hungry, and who always and usually were engaged in dieting behavior were more likely to have a fear of getting fat. Only 10.1% and 11.9% always and usually were engaged in dieting behavior, and 40.8% never did so. Respondents who usually/always had a strong desire to be thinner and who had a fear of getting fat were more likely to be engaged in dieting behavior. There is an urgent need to inform Italian adolescents about eating disorders, and healthcare workers may play a crucial role in distributing eating disorder-related knowledge.
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Adou AA, Napolitano F, Vastola A, Angelillo IF. Travelers' knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to infectious diseases in Italy. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215252. [PMID: 30978211 PMCID: PMC6461267 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this investigation were to examine the travelers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behavior about travel-related diseases and to evaluate the factors that influence their knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. A cross-sectional study was performed between May and September 2018 among a random sample of individuals attending randomly selected travel agencies in the geographical areas of Caserta and Naples, Italy. One fourth of participants (25.6%) had a poor level of knowledge, 50.2% a moderate, and only 24.2% a good level about the most common infectious diseases in the destination country. Those who had received information from physicians about the most common infectious diseases in the destination country and who do not need additional information were significantly more likely to have a good level of knowledge. A large majority (91%) showed no concern about the risk of getting an infectious disease during the travel. Almost half of the respondents had received information concerning the most common infectious diseases in the destination country and the related prevention measures. This information was more likely acquired by those graduated, those who know the foods that can cause the infectious diseases, and those who self-perceived a well health status, and less likely by those who had a poor level of knowledge about the most common infectious diseases in the destination country and who were going to Asia and South America. Education and communication activities regarding all aspects of travel-related diseases are needed to increase the knowledge and the access to preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdoulkader Ali Adou
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luciano Armanni, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Napolitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luciano Armanni, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Vastola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luciano Armanni, Naples, Italy
| | - Italo Francesco Angelillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luciano Armanni, Naples, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Rosso A, Massimi A, De Vito C, Adamo G, Baccolini V, Marzuillo C, Vacchio MR, Villari P. Knowledge and attitudes on pediatric vaccinations and intention to vaccinate in a sample of pregnant women from the City of Rome. Vaccine 2019; 37:1954-1963. [PMID: 30827733 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, pediatric immunization rates in Italy have decreased well below the recommended thresholds, largely due to an increase in scepticism about the efficacy and safety of vaccines. We aimed to identify the degree of such scepticism, and the factors driving it, among a sample of pregnant women in the City of Rome. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey on a sample of pregnant women attending antenatal classes (CANs) in Rome through distribution of a self-administered questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression models were built to analyze the determinants of knowledge, attitudes and intention to vaccinate in this population. RESULTS A total of 458 pregnant women attending CANs in 36 family health centers and two hospitals in Rome answered the survey. Mean age was 32.9 (±5.0) years, and over 90% of women were in their first pregnancy. More than 26% of respondents showed a good level of knowledge of the safety and efficacy of vaccines, but there were high rates of uncertainty or agreement with some of the most common anti-vaccination sentiments. Only 75% of women were sure about vaccinating their children with the hexavalent vaccine, and 64.3% with MMR. A good level of knowledge was the strongest predictor of positive attitudes towards vaccination (OR 11.61, 95% CI 6.43-20.96), which, in turn, influenced the intention to vaccinate for most vaccines with the perception of the benefit of immunization for protection against disease. CONCLUSIONS Scepticism about the safety, efficacy and importance of vaccines is associated to pregnant women's hesitancy to vaccinate their children, suggesting the need to develop strategies to increase vaccine acceptance in the antenatal period. The capacity of health care professionals, particularly midwives, to correctly deliver information to future parents should be strengthened in order to reduce the spread of misinformation and fear of vaccine safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Rosso
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Azzurra Massimi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Corrado De Vito
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Adamo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Valentina Baccolini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Carolina Marzuillo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Vacchio
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Paolo Villari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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Kim HW, Lee HY, Kim SE, Ahn HY, Kim YH, Lee YJ. Perceptions of nurses on human papillomavirus vaccinations in the Republic of Korea. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211475. [PMID: 30726267 PMCID: PMC6364919 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In June 2016, the Republic of Korea included free human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations for all 12-year-old girls in its national immunization program. PURPOSE This study investigated perceptions of nurses on HPV vaccination and their intent to vaccinate preteens at the best ages. METHODS Recruited for the survey were 514 health teachers (181, 35.2%), public health nurses (168, 32.7%), and clinical nurses (165, 32.1%). Factor-analysis was conducted to validate the Vaccine-Hesitancy Scale for Korean nurses. Related variables associated with vaccine-acceptance were examined using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman's rho coefficients, due to lack of normalization. RESULTS Factor-analysis results showed that two factors of positive acceptance (7 items) and negative acceptance (3 items) accounted for 67.46% of the total variance, and explained 47.4% and 20.1%, respectively. Nurses who positively accepted HPV vaccine differed significantly in agreement to vaccinate girls or boys. For the proper vaccination age, a significant difference emerged between answers for girls and vaccine-acceptance scores, whereas no difference emerged between answers for boys and the scores. The vaccinated status of respondents significantly related to higher HPV vaccine acceptance, although age, religion, marital status, education, and working duration did not. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that vaccine-acceptance levels reflect nurses' attitudes and opinions about HPV vaccination for girls and boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae Won Kim
- Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
- Seoul National University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyang Yuol Lee
- Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Eun Kim
- Department of Nursing, Woosuk University, Jeollabuk-do, Korea
| | - Hye Young Ahn
- College of Nursing, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Yeon Hee Kim
- Department of Nursing, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Jin Lee
- Seoul National University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
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Parental Knowledge about Meningococcal Disease and Vaccination Uptake among 0⁻5 years Old Polish Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16020265. [PMID: 30669259 PMCID: PMC6352148 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16020265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
In Poland, in addition to mandatory, free of charge vaccines, listed in the national immunization schedule, numerous self-paid vaccinations are recommended, including meningococcal vaccination (MV). To assess MV uptake among ≤5-year-old children and to evaluate parental knowledge and attitudes regarding invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018 among 350 parents (mean age: 32.3 years), attending three randomly selected primary care clinics in Szczecin region, Poland. Anonymous questionnaires were administered to the parents by researchers, present at the time the survey was conducted, to self-complete on a voluntary basis. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact for categorical and Mann–Whitney U test for continuous variables. Variables significantly (p < 0.05) associated with ‘good knowledge’ in the bivariate analysis were used to build a logistic regression model. It was found that the response rate was 93.4%, and MV uptake among children was 29.5%. The main knowledge sources were medical staff and media; 72.5% had ever received information about IMD. Only 18.8% of parents self-assessed their knowledge regarding IMD as good; 61.8% scored >50% in the knowledge test 58.9% knew the mode of transmission, 58.7% recognized the severity of meningitis, and 79.7% knew that bacterial meningitis is a vaccine-preventive disease. Knowledge regarding IMD was higher among parents with higher educational level (OR = 3.37; p = 0.01), from urban facilities (OR = 2.20; p = 0.02), who received previous information about IMD (OR = 2.85; p = 0.01) and self-assessed their knowledge as good (OR = 2.59; p = 0.04). Low MV coverage among children up to five years old and knowledge gaps about IMD call for awareness campaigns which may increase the coverage. Although educational interventions should cover all parents, those from provincial facilities, representing lower education level need special attention.
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Parental awareness of Meningococcal B vaccines and willingness to vaccinate their teens. Vaccine 2018; 37:670-676. [PMID: 30587431 PMCID: PMC6441613 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.11.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: In the US, Meningococcal B (MenB) vaccines were first licensed in 2014. In 2015, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended that parents of teens talk to their provider about receiving MenB vaccine, rather than issuing a routine recommendation. We assessed parental awareness of MenB vaccines and willingness to vaccinate their teens with MenB vaccines compared to MenACWY vaccines, which have been routinely recommended for many years. Methods: We surveyed parents of teens attending high school in 2017–18 during the Minnesota State Fair. Parents reported via iPad their knowledge of and concern about meningococcal disease and their awareness of and willingness to vaccinate with MenB and MenACWY vaccines. We assessed the relationship between meningococcal disease knowledge and concern, MenB and MenACWY vaccine awareness, and willingness to vaccinate with MenB and MenACWY using adjusted logistic regression. Results: Among 445 parents, the majority had not heard of the newly introduced MenB vaccines Bexsero® (80.0%; 95% CI: 76.0–83.6) or Trumenba® (82.0%; 95% CI: 78.1–85.5) or the MenACWY vaccines Menactra® or Menveo® (68.8%; 95% CI: 64.2–73.0). The majority were at least somewhat willing to vaccinate their teen with MenB vaccine (89.6%; 95% CI: 86.5, 92.3) and MenACWY vaccine (91.2%; 95% CI: 88.2, 93.7). Awareness of MenB vaccines (OR: 3.8; 95% CI: 1.2–12.2) and concern about meningococcal disease (OR: 3.1; 95% CI: 1.5–6.3) were significantly associated with willingness to vaccinate with MenB vaccine. Conclusions: Awareness of MenB vaccine is lacking among parents of teens but is an important predictor of willingness to vaccinate with the newly licensed MenB vaccines.
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Awareness, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Meningococcal B Vaccine among Pediatricians in Italy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 54:medicina54060100. [PMID: 30513993 PMCID: PMC6306744 DOI: 10.3390/medicina54060100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Vaccination against bacterial pathogens is decisive for preventing invasive meningococcal disease and pediatricians play a pivotal role in vaccination compliance and coverage. The aim of this study was to investigate awareness, attitude, and practices toward the vaccine against Meningococcal B serogroup (4CMenB) among a sample of Italian pediatricians. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out using an online questionnaire from March to May 2015. Three multivariate logistic regression models were built to identify factors associated with the outcomes of interest. Results: The data showed that 95.5% of the interviewees correctly responded about the availability of 4CMenB vaccine in Italy, while only 28.0% knew the vaccination schedule for children aged two years or under. This knowledge was significantly higher in younger pediatricians and in those who worked a higher number of hours per week. Pediatricians self-reported a positive attitude toward the utility and safety of 4CMenB vaccine. Those pediatricians with a strong positive attitude toward the utility of the vaccine, who knew the vaccination schedules for children of two years or under, and who declared a satisfactory or good knowledge about the vaccine were more likely to inform parents about its availability in Italy, recommend the vaccination, and verify patients’ vaccination status, in their daily practice. Conclusions: The study highlights factors that currently influence pediatricians’ practices regarding the 4CMenB vaccine. The results showed the possible actions recommended to improve physicians’ awareness and behaviors in order to improve the vaccination compliance and invasive meningococcal diseases prevention.
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Noh JW, Kim YM, Akram N, Yoo KB, Park J, Cheon J, Kwon YD, Stekelenburg J. Factors affecting complete and timely childhood immunization coverage in Sindh, Pakistan; A secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0206766. [PMID: 30379947 PMCID: PMC6209382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pakistan has a high burden of newborn mortality, which would be significantly preventable through appropriate routine immunization. The purpose of this study was to measure the basic timely childhood immunization coverage and to identify determinants of factors influencing childhood immunization coverage in Sindh, Pakistan. METHODS Data from Maternal and Child Health Program Indicator Survey 2013-2014 which was conducted in Sindh province of Pakistan was used. Outcome measure was full coverage of the basic immunization schedule from child's vaccination card. The association of receiving basic immunization with demographic factors, socioeconomic status, mother and child health information sources, and perinatal care factors were tested by binary logistic regression. RESULTS Among 2,253 children, 1,156 (51.3%) received age-based full basic immunization. The basic immunization rates were 69.1% for under five weeks old, 38.3% for six to nine weeks, 18.8% for 10-13 weeks, 44.0% for 14 weeks-eight months, 60.4% for nine to 11 months, and 59.1% for over one year. Child's age, number of living children, parents' education level, wealth, the source of mother and child health information, number of antenatal care, and assistance during delivery were associated with completing basic immunization. CONCLUSIONS The overall full basic immunization coverage in Pakistan was still low. Policy makers should identify children at risk of low immunization coverage and obstacles of receiving antenatal care, implement educational interventions targeting on less educated parents, and conduct mass immunization campaigns for timely and complete immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Won Noh
- Department of Healthcare Management, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea
- Global Health Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Young-mi Kim
- Jhpiego, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Nabeel Akram
- Jhpiego, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ki-Bong Yoo
- Department of Health Administration, College of Health Sciences, Yonsei University, Wonju, Korea
| | - Jumin Park
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jooyoung Cheon
- Department of Nursing Science, Sungshin University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Dae Kwon
- Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, College of Medicine and Catholic Institute for Healthcare Management, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- * E-mail:
| | - Jelle Stekelenburg
- Global Health Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
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Adamo G, Sturabotti G, Baccolini V, de Soccio P, Prencipe GP, Bella A, Magurano F, Iannazzo S, Villari P, Marzuillo C. Regional reports for the subnational monitoring of measles elimination in Italy and the identification of local barriers to the attainment of the elimination goal. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205147. [PMID: 30356247 PMCID: PMC6200208 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although most countries in the WHO European Region were verified in 2017 as having interrupted endemic measles transmission, nine countries were still endemic. Among these, Italy accounted for the second highest number of measles cases reported in Europe in 2017. The elimination of measles is verified at national level by each country's National Verification Committee (NVC) through the production of an Annual Status Update (ASU). Since in Italy decentralization has led to an inhomogeneous implementation of immunization strategies among the 21 administrative Regions, the Italian NVC proposed that measles elimination should also be documented at the subnational level through regional ASUs and Synthetic Regional Reports (SRRs). The regional ASUs and the SRRs for 2014, 2015 and 2016 were produced and appraised by the NVC to evaluate the Regions' performances in each individual year as well as over the whole period. A specific analysis of vaccination coverage, including official immunization data for 2017, was performed. Moreover, the measles epidemic of 2017 was examined. Firstly, in the period 2014-2016, low immunization rates were registered in most Regions. Sixty-three per cent of southern Regions reported rates below the national mean and an overall low-quality performance. The approval of Italy's mandatory vaccination law in 2017 resulted in a marked increase in vaccination coverage; however, this increase was not homogeneous among Regions. Secondly, more than 50% of Regions did not report any supplemental immunization activity (SIA) for the period 2014-2016. Thirdly, from 2014 to 2016, fewer than one-third of Regions improved their reporting of outbreaks. Finally, over the study period, only two Regions reached the target required by the WHO for measles laboratory investigations. In countries with decentralized health policies, subnational monitoring can help identify local barriers to measles elimination. In Italy it has highlighted the need for further SIAs and a stronger surveillance system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Adamo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Sturabotti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Baccolini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale de Soccio
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Pia Prencipe
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Bella
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Magurano
- National Reference Laboratory for Measles and Rubella, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Iannazzo
- Infectious Diseases and International Prophylaxis Office, Ministry of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Villari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carolina Marzuillo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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D'Alessandro A, Napolitano F, D'Ambrosio A, Angelillo IF. Vaccination knowledge and acceptability among pregnant women in Italy. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:1573-1579. [PMID: 29863958 PMCID: PMC6067873 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1483809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The aims of this survey were to ascertain pregnant women's level of knowledge and acceptability on the vaccinations and to identify their associations with several characteristics. A cross-sectional study was performed from December 2017 through March 2018 in the geographic area of Naples, Italy. The study used two stages cluster sampling method for selection and recruitment of participants. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with pregnant women present at the Obstetrics outpatient clinic of the selected hospitals. A total of 358 respondents agreed to be interviewed out of the 405 pregnant women selected. One-fourth knew at least one of the vaccinations recommended during pregnancy and only 2.8% correctly identified all of these. Women who had received information about the vaccinations during pregnancy from general practitioners or gynecologists or other sources and those with at least one child were more likely to know at least one of the recommended vaccinations, whereas women with middle school education were less knowledgeable. None of the women had received tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine and only 1.4% the seasonal influenza vaccination. Only 27.9% reported a positive willingness to receive all the recommended vaccinations during pregnancy. Pregnant women would be willing to get all recommended vaccinations if they had at least one child and if they needed additional information, whereas the willingness was significantly lower among women who had reported high school as the highest level of education, who were in the second trimester of pregnancy, and who felt that the recommended vaccines administered during pregnancy were less dangerous for them and for the unborn child. This study suggests important focus points to be taking into account for informing and for implementing education activities on the benefits regarding vaccinations in order to increase the level of knowledge and the uptake in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia D'Alessandro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, (Italy)
| | - Francesco Napolitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, (Italy)
| | - Antonio D'Ambrosio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, (Italy)
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Giuliani AR, Mattei A, Appetiti A, Pompei D, Di Donna F, Fiasca F, Fabiani L. Spontanuous Demand For Meningococcal B Vaccination: Effects On Appropriateness And Timing. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:2075-2081. [PMID: 29927693 PMCID: PMC6150011 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1466015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
When the meningococcus B vaccine was introduced into Italy in 2017, it was recommended for newborns based on national epidemiological data indicating that they were at greater risk. However, the vaccination service of the local health authority of L'Aquila had already been receiving spontaneous parental requests to provide vaccination for children in lower-risk age groups from the beginning of 2016. We therefore decided to use a self-administered questionnaire in order to investigate the parents’ socio-demographic data; their children's history of other recommended vaccinations (against measles, mumps and rubella, varicella, meningococcus C and, for females, human papilloma virus); the information sources concerning meningococcal vaccination; and the timing of its administration. The questionnaire was completed by 565 parents, and the results showed that the requests mainly came from the parents of children aged 5–11 years. The children whose mothers had received a high school education and were >35 years old were more likely to have received the first dose after the age of one year and to have perceived pain at the inoculation site, and less likely to have experienced mild general reactions. The requests were mainly trigged by the recommendations of healthcare professionals, and the overloading of the vaccination service led to delays in the administration of the doses after the first. The delays (reported by 74.07% of the parents) were mainly due to organisational problems in the service itself, which led 61.52% of the doses being more appropriately administered by staff working as private physicians inside public health facilities, albeit at extra cost. These findings indicate that organisational factors and excessive demand had a considerable impact on both the efficacy of the immunisation and its appropriateness.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Giuliani
- a Department of Life , Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , Italy
| | - A Mattei
- a Department of Life , Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , Italy
| | - A Appetiti
- a Department of Life , Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , Italy
| | - D Pompei
- b Abruzzo Regional Department of Prevention (ASL1) , L'Aquila , Italy
| | - F Di Donna
- a Department of Life , Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , Italy
| | - F Fiasca
- a Department of Life , Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , Italy
| | - L Fabiani
- a Department of Life , Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , Italy
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Napolitano F, D'Alessandro A, Angelillo IF. Investigating Italian parents' vaccine hesitancy: A cross-sectional survey. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:1558-1565. [PMID: 29641945 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1463943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional survey was designed to assess the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy and to identify factors associated among a randomly selected sample of parents. A questionnaire was self-administered from October to December 2017 to a sample of parents of children aged 2 to 6 years attending five randomly selected pre-schools in the geographic area of Naples, Italy. Out of the 727 selected parents, 437 returned the questionnaires for a response rate of 60.1%. The median of Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines Survey (PACV) score among participants was 45.8 with a total of 141 parents (34.7%) scored a value ≥50 and were defined hesitant about the childhood vaccinations. Vaccine hesitancy was significantly more common among those who were concerned and among those were not sure that any one of the childhood shots might not be safe, among those who were concerned that their children might have a serious side effect from a shot, among those who were concerned that a shot might not prevent the disease, among those who delayed and refused at least a shot of vaccine for their children, and in those who are not sure and uncertain in the pediatrician. More than half of parents (53.8%) expressed a desire to receive additional information about the childhood vaccinations. Parents who were not sure and uncertain that to follow the recommended shot schedule is a good idea for their children and those who were parents of first-born children were more likely to need additional information. This study finds a high prevalence of vaccine hesitancy among parents suggesting that in the immunization program is necessary to achieve a higher quality of the relationship between pediatricians and the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Napolitano
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
| | - Alessia D'Alessandro
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
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Pelullo CP, Napolitano F, Di Giuseppe G. Meningococcal disease and vaccination: Knowledge and acceptability among adolescents in Italy. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:1197-1202. [PMID: 29452028 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1436918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practice about invasive meningococcal disease and the relative vaccine for adolescent in Italy. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2017 among a sample of 771 adolescents in the geographic area of Naples (Italy). A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was used to collect demographics, knowledge about meningitis and preventive measures, perceived risk for contracting meningitis, attitude towards the utility of meningococcal vaccine, and adolescents' willingness to receive a meningococcal vaccine. 85.2% of participants have heard about meningitis, 57.2% knew that adolescents are a susceptible population but only 30.3% knew that meningitis is transmitted by respiratory droplets. Moreover, 40.5% of adolescents knew that meningitis is a vaccine-preventable disease and that adolescents could be vaccinated. This knowledge was significantly greater among female participants, among those who talk with parents about vaccinations, among who have received information about vaccinations from physicians, among who have positive attitude towards the utility of information received on vaccinations and among who don't feel the need of additional information about meningitis. As regard the attitudes, 25.7% of adolescents thought that the vaccine was very useful. Males, adolescent aged 11-13 years, those who had the positive attitude towards the utility of information received about vaccinations and those who had received at least one vaccination in the last year were more likely to have this attitude. The our finding identifies the need to improve adolescents' knowledge about meningitis and its related vaccinations, through correct health education, in order to have a good acceptance of vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Paola Pelullo
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
| | - Francesco Napolitano
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
| | - Gabriella Di Giuseppe
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
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Pelullo CP, Di Giuseppe G. Vaccinations among Italian adolescents: Knowledge, attitude and behavior. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:1566-1572. [PMID: 29303677 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2017.1421877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluates knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of adolescents regarding vaccinations. A cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 771 adolescents, aged 11 to 18 selected from a random sample of 5 public schools, in the period between March and May 2017, in the geographical area of Naples. A self-administered questionnaire was used to seek information about: 1) socio-demographic characteristics; 2) knowledge of vaccine-preventable diseases; 3) attitudes towards vaccinations; 4) behavior regarding vaccinations. 57.2% had a fair/satisfactory knowledge of vaccine-preventable diseases. This knowledge was significantly higher in those who had at least one graduated parent, those who had received information about the vaccines from physicians and those who needed additional information about the vaccines. With regards to attitude, 41.3% of adolescents had a very favorable attitude by responding 9 or 10 towards the utility of vaccines in preventing diseases. This was significantly associated with the usefulness of information received about vaccinations and with age of respondents. Regarding vaccination decisions, 47.2% believed that adolescents should make vaccination decisions for themselves. These results highlight the need to implement educational interventions to improve adolescents' understanding of vaccinations so that they are more informed in decisions regarding their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Paola Pelullo
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
| | - Gabriella Di Giuseppe
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Naples , Italy
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