1
|
Chau NM, Van Anh Nguyen T, To MN, Ghanem AS, Szőllősi G, Móré M, Nagy AC. Association Between Influenza Vaccine Uptake and Health Awareness: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire-Based Study Among Medical Students and Healthcare Workers in Northern Vietnam. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e941406. [PMID: 38163948 PMCID: PMC10771011 DOI: 10.12659/msm.941406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seasonal influenza poses a significant global health concern. Despite the proven effectiveness of the influenza vaccine, its uptake remains low in Vietnam. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical students and healthcare workers on influenza vaccine uptake in northern Vietnam. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 585 participants from northern Vietnam institutions through an anonymous online survey via Google form from June to August 2022. The cut-off for a high level of knowledge and a positive attitude was set at 70% for each variable. Bivariate analysis was conducted to establish associations. Multiple binary logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice. RESULTS Among the participants, 463 (79.15%) were women, 354 (60.51%) were below 25 years old, 426 (72.82%) were of "Kinh" ethnicity, and 454 (77.61%) were single. Only 237 (40.51%) were vaccinated. Good knowledge and attitude were reported by 36.58% and 42.39% of the participants, respectively. Having a high level of knowledge was found positively associated with having a positive attitude (odds ratio 2.11 [1.48-3.01]). Kinh ethnicity was positively associated with knowledge (1.67 [1.12-2.49]) and attitude (1.97 [1.32-2.94]). Female participants displayed a more positive attitude (2.08 [1.33-3.25]). Several factors influenced the uptake, such as being single (2.07 [1.19-3.59]), being a medical doctor (2.34 [1.09-5.06]), and being advised by a healthcare provider (2.96 [2.00-4.37]). CONCLUSIONS A noticeable gap in knowledge and attitude related to influenza vaccine uptake was found among the target population. Tailored interventions are necessary to improve vaccination coverage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Minh Chau
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Thi Van Anh Nguyen
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Minh Nguyet To
- School of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Amr Sayed Ghanem
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gergő Szőllősi
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Marianna Móré
- Institute of Social and Sociological Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Attila Csaba Nagy
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
AlAmer NA, Al-Shammari MA, Al-Johani WM, Al-Mansour AH, AlShamlan NA, AlQarni AM, Aldhawyan AF, Alkaltham SM, Al-Muhaidib HR, Darwish MA. Motivators for the public to receive the seasonal influenza vaccination and the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the uptake of the seasonal influenza vaccination. J Family Community Med 2024; 31:9-15. [PMID: 38406214 PMCID: PMC10883431 DOI: 10.4103/jfcm.jfcm_112_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coverage of the seasonal influenza vaccine has always been sub-par. Understanding the motivators of receiving vaccines, especially during pandemics, could enhance and increase the coverage rates. The Saudi Ministry of Health launched its annual influenza vaccination campaign during the 2021 influenza season and provided vaccinations in primary healthcare settings. This study aims to explore public motivators to receive influenza vaccination, particularly during the coronavirus disease 2019 global pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled 783 participants who attended the influenza vaccination campaign. All persons who received the influenza vaccine in the influenza vaccination campaign held in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, from October to November 2021, were interviewed and completed a self-administered questionnaire. Odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval were estimated using the full model fit. The significance level was set as α = 0.05. RESULTS The majority of the participants had more than high school education (81%), were males (66.2%), and married (59.6%), and 50.6% were below 35 years of age. Participants with higher education, health-care workers, and those who had been previously counseled on influenza vaccination were less likely to have started taking the influenza vaccination, whereas smokers and persons who do not have routine checkups were more likely to start influenza vaccination. The main motivator to take the influenza vaccine was the establishment of a vaccination campaign near the participant's workplace (62.2%), followed by advice from their physician (30.3%), and fear of having influenza disease (29.6%). CONCLUSION Accessibility to the vaccination campaigns was the main motivator for receiving the vaccine followed by the advice from physician. Advice from physician and increasing mobile vaccination campaigns and mobile clinics would substantially increase influenza vaccine uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naheel A. AlAmer
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Malak A. Al-Shammari
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wejdan M. Al-Johani
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulelah H. Al-Mansour
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf A. AlShamlan
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani M. AlQarni
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adam F. Aldhawyan
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shikha M. Alkaltham
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hala R. Al-Muhaidib
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Magdy A. Darwish
- Department Family and Community Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ibrahim AM, Zaghamir DF. Knowledge and attitudes towards mpox and effect of intervention among College of Applied Medical Sciences students. Libyan J Med 2023; 18:2222448. [PMID: 37300843 DOI: 10.1080/19932820.2023.2222448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This research aims to assess the base level of knowledge and attitude of Applied Medical Sciences Students regarding mpox and whether an educational intervention could improve their knowledge and attitude. Methods: A quasi-experimental research was used, involving 960 medical students from Applied Medical Sciences College at Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, KSA. They were recruited from the beginning of November 2022 till the mid of January 2023 based on the non-randomized sampling method. A standardized, anonymous, and closed-ended questionnaire was used, compromising three main sections: participants' demographics, knowledge, and attitudes toward the mpox epidemic. Results: Total knowledge scores of the studied sample in the pretest phase were 45.43 ± 6.29 compared to 65.03 ± 2.93 in the post-test phase. Besides, total attitude scores were 48.62 ± 4.78 before program implementation, while after conducting the program reached 70.65 ± 5.13. There was a notable improvement in the total knowledge score of the sample studied after the intervention was implemented, particularly for neurological manifestations. Conclusion: After the program's implementation, there was an obvious improvement in the medical students' total knowledge and attitude scores concerning the mpox epidemic. It is necessary to initiate well-organized training initiatives for all other medical faculties, paramedics, and applied health institutions in Saudi Arabia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ateya Megahed Ibrahim
- Nursing, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Alkarj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Family and Community Health Nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | - Donia Fathi Zaghamir
- Nursing, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Alkarj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Lecturer of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Brunson EK, Rohde RE, Fulton LV. College students' willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2804-2812. [PMID: 34905717 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1996375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Objective To assess college students' willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines and the factors that influence their decisions. Participants: Traditional (aged 18-23) undergraduate students at a university in central Texas. Methods: An online survey was administered in fall 2020 to 614 students stratified by sex and race/ethnicity. Results: 40.9% of students planned to take the vaccine as soon as possible, 37.1% eventually, 11.4% only if required, and 10.6% did not intend to be vaccinated. Analyses indicated that gender, major/minor, political affiliation, receiving a flu shot in the preceding 12 months, perception of risk for COVID-19, and vaccine hesitancy were all associated with willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines. Conclusion: Results confirm that no one-size-fits-all approach to promoting COVID-19 vaccination among college students is possible. Instead, administrators interested in increasing vaccine uptake should address concerns of specific groups, while also utilizing the prosocial beliefs of college students (e.g., being vaccinated will protect others).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Brunson
- Department of Anthropology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Rodney E Rohde
- Clinical Laboratory Science Program, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Lawrence V Fulton
- School of Health Administration, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kreiger JE, Zigmont VA, Michalski CD, Borgognone KS. Flu vaccinations: College campus not making the grade. A study of influenza vaccination at an urban public university. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2501-2509. [PMID: 34670106 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1976192] [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: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Even healthy college students are vulnerable to severe complications associated with seasonal influenza (flu). Despite national directives to increase influenza vaccination compliance, college campuses remain woefully below national goals. This study aimed to identify factors correlated with the decision to voluntarily receive an influenza vaccine. Additionally, students' reasons for non-vaccination were also examined. Participants: 1021 undergraduate students across four professional schools. Methods: A representative cross-sectional survey was conducted at a public, urban university. Results: The survey measured self-reported influenza vaccination: an overall influenza vaccination rate of 38% was identified. Student characteristics associated with increased influenza vaccination included students' enrollment in academic health disciplines; being female; human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination; and no marijuana use in the last month. Barriers to influenza vaccination included contraindications, mistrust issues, and personal reasons. Conclusion: Universities that can identify facilitators and barriers to voluntary influenza vaccination can assist with program initiatives to improve influenza vaccination compliance rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan E Kreiger
- Department of Health and Movement Science, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Victoria A Zigmont
- Department of Public Health, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Carrie D Michalski
- Department of Nursing, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kristen S Borgognone
- Department of Nursing, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Osborne MT, Kenah E, Lancaster K, Tien J. Catch the tweet to fight the flu: Using Twitter to promote flu shots on a college campus. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2470-2484. [PMID: 34519614 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1973480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Over the 2018-2019 flu season we conducted a randomized controlled trial examining the efficacy of a Twitter campaign on vaccination rates. Concurrently we investigated potential interactions between digital social network structure and vaccination status. Participants: Undergratuates at a large midwestern public university were randomly assigned to an intervention (n = 353) or control (n = 349) group. Methods: Vaccination data were collected via monthly surveys. Participant Twitter data were collected through the public-facing Twitter API. Intervention impact was assessed with logistic regression. Standard network science tools examined vaccination coverage over online social networks. Results: The campaign had no effect on vaccination outcome. Receiving a flu shot the prior year had a positive impact on participant vaccination. Evidence of an interaction between digital social network structure and vaccination status was detected. Conclusions: Social media campaigns may not be sufficient for increasing vaccination rates. There may be potential for social media campaigns that leverage network structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T Osborne
- Department of Mathematics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Eben Kenah
- College of Public Health Department of Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kathryn Lancaster
- College of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Joseph Tien
- Department of Mathematics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- College of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Al Nufaiei ZF, Alshenkiti A, Sallam FN, Badraig NS, Al Zhranei RM, Alshamrani KM, Sannan N, Alsulami M, Al-Thaqafy MS, Abdelrahman E. Assessment of the Knowledge and Opinions of Undergraduate Health Care Students Concerning Influenza Vaccination in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Multidiscip Healthc 2023; 16:2681-2690. [PMID: 37720268 PMCID: PMC10503518 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s415745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Influenza remains a significant global public health challenge, causing substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite the availability of influenza vaccines, challenges related to vaccine hesitancy and healthcare professionals' attitudes persist. Furthermore, there is a need to understand the knowledge and opinions of undergraduate healthcare students regarding influenza vaccinations. Therefore, we aimed to assess and compare the knowledge and opinions of undergraduate healthcare students about influenza vaccinations, addressing the existing knowledge gap in this area. Methods We employed a cross-sectional study design to assess the opinions and knowledge of undergraduate healthcare students in Saudi Arabia regarding influenza vaccination. A total of 137 healthcare programs were invited to participate via filled-out the survey online. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics for the demographic profile and Chi-Square and independent t-tests for examining associations and differences in opinions and knowledge, respectively. Results A total of 429 undergraduate students completed the survey and were included. Significant associations were found between the students' major and their beliefs regarding the effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing influenza (p=0.017) and the inclusion of influenza vaccines in medical practice (p=0.016). The majority of students agreed with seven out of nine knowledge statements, with agreement percentages ranging from 42.9% to 44.8%. When comparing knowledge scores, students majoring in medicine had a significantly higher mean knowledge score (3.91) compared to students studying other medical sciences (3.72) (p=0.019). Conclusion and Recommendations Our study suggests that a comprehensive approach involving education, awareness initiatives, and policy changes is needed to enhance knowledge about influenza vaccination among Saudi Arabian undergraduate students in Medical School allied medical sciences and medical degree programs. By implementing these strategies, we can promote a positive attitude towards flu vaccination and ultimately increase its uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziyad F Al Nufaiei
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulghani Alshenkiti
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris N Sallam
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nizar Suhail Badraig
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raid M Al Zhranei
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid M Alshamrani
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif Sannan
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maher Alsulami
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majid S Al-Thaqafy
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Infection Prevention and Control Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad Abdelrahman
- General Medicine, Albayt Medical General Center, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alzarea AI, Khan YH, Alanazi AS, Alotaibi NH, Alzarea SI, Almalki ZS, Alqahtani SS, Mallhi TH. Evaluation of Outreach of Community Pharmacists in Public Health Services in Al-Jouf Region of Saudi Arabia: Findings and Implications. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2299. [PMID: 37628497 PMCID: PMC10454010 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11162299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diversifying the conventional role of community pharmacists from dispensing to involvement in public health services could help in optimized patient care and ultimately good health practices. The current study aimed to ascertain the involvement of community pharmacists, barriers to involvement, their preparedness towards the provision of public health services in the future, and effective strategies to improve their existing role, especially in remote areas of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Al-Jouf region of Saudi Arabia (KSA), between January to April 2023. A convenient sampling technique was used to recruit community pharmacists (CPs). A self-designed and validated questionnaire was used for data collection. The relative importance index (RII) was utilized to rank the barriers to participation in public health services. Data were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS. RESULTS This study recruited 119 participants (mean age: 32.2 ± 7.9; male gender: 67.2%). Of these, 91.6% were involved in the provision of public health services at community pharmacies. Majority of CPs (n = 114/119, 95.8%) provided drug use-related written information to the patients, and the least practiced service was screening of dyslipidemia (n = 81; 68.1%). According to RII, the major barrier was the lack of time given by patients (RII: 0.812). Overall, the majority of the pharmacists (n = 94/119; 79%) were willing to provide public health services. Most of the CPs reported that empowerment through education and awareness (n = 100/119; 84%) is most effective strategy to enhance the involvement of pharmacists in public health services. CONCLUSIONS Findings of the present study underscored the adequate participation of community pharmacists in public health activities. Further studies are required in other remote regions of KSA to get a clear insight into the overall participation of community pharmacists in public health services and generalize the findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz Ibrahim Alzarea
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (A.S.A.); (N.H.A.)
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (A.S.A.); (N.H.A.)
| | - Abdullah Salah Alanazi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (A.S.A.); (N.H.A.)
- Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser Hadal Alotaibi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (A.S.A.); (N.H.A.)
| | - Sami I. Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ziyad Saeed Almalki
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Saad S. Alqahtani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (A.S.A.); (N.H.A.)
- Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mourad N, Mourad L, Hammoudi Halat D, Farah Z, Hendaus M, El Sayed Trad I, El Akel M, Safwan J, Rahal M, Younes S. Factors Affecting Influenza Vaccination Uptake and Attitudes among Lebanese University Students: The Impact of Vaccination Promotional Programs and COVID-19 Pandemic. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050949. [PMID: 37243053 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050949] [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: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is the most effective preventative strategy against influenza, yet university students' influenza vaccination uptake remains low. This study aimed firstly to determine the percentage of university students who were vaccinated for the 2015-2016 influenza season and to identify reasons for non-vaccination, and secondly to examine the impact of external factors (on-campus/online influenza awareness campaigns and COVID-19 pandemic) on their influenza vaccination uptake and attitudes for the 2017-2018 and 2021-2022 influenza seasons. A descriptive study was conducted over three phases for three influenza seasons at a Lebanese university in the Bekaa Region. Based on data collected in 2015-2016, promotional activities were developed and implemented for the other influenza seasons. This study was conducted using an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire by students. The majority of the respondents in the three studies did not receive the influenza vaccine (89.2% in the 2015-2016 study, 87.3% in the 2017-2018 study, and 84.7% in the 2021-2022 study). Among the unvaccinated respondents, the main reason for non-vaccination was that they thought that they did not need it. The primary reason for vaccination among those who were vaccinated was that they believed they were at risk of catching influenza in a 2017-2018 study and due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2021-2022 study. As for attitudes towards influenza vaccination post-COVID-19, significant differences were shown among the vaccinated and unvaccinated respondents. The vaccination rates among university students remained low despite of the awareness campaigns and COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nisreen Mourad
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Santé Publique, Épidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban, Beirut 1103, Lebanon
| | - Lidia Mourad
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
| | - Dalal Hammoudi Halat
- Academic Quality Department, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
| | - Zeina Farah
- Epidemiological Surveillance Program, Ministry of Public Health, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamed Hendaus
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
| | - Israa El Sayed Trad
- Global Health Institute Department, American University of Beirut, Beirut 11-0236, Lebanon
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
| | - Marwan El Akel
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
- School of Education, Lebanese International University, Beirut 14404, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Santé Publique, Épidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban, Beirut 1103, Lebanon
- International Pharmaceutical Federation, 2517 JP The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Jihan Safwan
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Santé Publique, Épidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban, Beirut 1103, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
| | - Samar Younes
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB: Institut National de Santé Publique, Épidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie-Liban, Beirut 1103, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Marques-Vieira CMA, Domingues TD, Tholl AD, Nitschke RG, Pérez-Rivas FJ, Ajejas-Bazán MJ, Roquette-Viana MC. Attitudes and Behaviors towards Vaccination in Portuguese Nursing Students. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040847. [PMID: 37112758 PMCID: PMC10145144 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowing the attitudes and behaviors of nursing students in relation to vaccination is important because they will soon be determinant for the health literacy of the population. Vaccination remains the most effective response in the fight against communicable diseases, including COVID-19 and influenza. The objective of this study is to analyze the attitudes and behaviors of Portuguese nursing students with regard to vaccination. A cross-sectional study was carried out, with data collection from nursing students at a university in Lisbon, Portugal. A sample of 216 nursing students was obtained, representing 67.1% of the students enrolled in this university. What stands out from the results of the questionnaire "Attitudes and Behaviors in Relation to Vaccination among Students of Health Sciences" is that for the majority of students the answers were positive; in addition, 84.7% had a completed vaccination schedule for COVID-19. Being a nursing student, being in the final years of the course and being a woman are the factors that most influence the positive attitude of the students. The results obtained are motivating, because these students will be the future health professionals most likely to integrate health promotion programs through vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maria Alves Marques-Vieira
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Nursing School (Lisbon), Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Palma de Cima, Edificio 5, Piso 5, 1649-023 Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon Center for Research, Innovation and Development in Nursing (CIDNUR), Higher School of Nursing, 1600-190 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tiago Dias Domingues
- Centro de Estatistica e Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa (CEAUL), Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Adriana Dutra Tholl
- Department of Nursing, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | | | - Francisco Javier Pérez-Rivas
- Grupo de Investigación UCM "Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el En-torno Comunitario", Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Red de Investigación en Cronicidad, Atención Primaria y Promoción de la Salud-RICAPPS-(RICORS), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Julia Ajejas-Bazán
- Grupo de Investigación UCM "Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el En-torno Comunitario", Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Academia Central de la Defensa, Escuela Militar de Sanidad, Ministerio de Defensa, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Clara Roquette-Viana
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Nursing School (Lisbon), Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Palma de Cima, Edificio 5, Piso 5, 1649-023 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Su Z, Chen YT. College students' influenza vaccination adoption: Self-reported barriers and facilitators. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:522-527. [PMID: 35157568 PMCID: PMC9375805 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1898401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Influenza attack rates among college students are high. However, little is known about the determinants of students' flu vaccine adoption from their own perspectives. To fill this gap, this study aims to investigate barriers and facilitators to college students' flu vaccine adoption. METHODS A total of 545 students offered complete answers to an online survey. Thematic analysis was used for analyzing open-ended questions. RESULTS Students' flu vaccine adoption was hindered by their fear associated with the flu vaccine, lack of pertinent knowledge, perceived lack of necessity, negative social influence, and time constraints and convenience concerns. Students were motivated to adopt the flu vaccine for their interest in self-care, positive experience with the flu vaccine adoption, good flu vaccine habits, and recommendations from trusted sources. CONCLUSIONS Understanding determinants of students' flu vaccine adoption provides the first step in developing tailored health interventions that may increase students' flu vaccine adoption rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Su
- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, East Central University, Ada, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Yen Tzu Chen
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, College of Education, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abushouk A, Ahmed ME, Althagafi Z, Almehmadi A, Alasmari S, Alenezi F, Fallata M, Alshamrani R. Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward seasonal influenza vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic among students at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences-Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2023; 12:17. [PMID: 37034872 PMCID: PMC10079167 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_722_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Annual influenza vaccine is recommended among health professionals especially, health science undergraduates; although, studies suggest that there is a low level of vaccine coverage among health care undergraduates. Thus, the study aimed to investigate students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the seasonal influenza vaccine at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS A cross-sectional, unicentral study was carried out during the period of April to November 2021. A total of 341 validated questionnaires that included four sections were distributed in all four different colleges of KSAU-HS. Data management and analyses were carried out using Statistical Software for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. RESULTS Out of 341 respondents, 336 participants completed the full survey (98.53% completion rate). The majority of participants were males (67.6% and the most participants were from the college of medicine (60.4%). The mean knowledge score of students was found to be (11.3 ± 2.0) out of 14 points. The most common barrier to vaccination among healthcare students was not having enough time to take the vaccine (23.8%), while the second one was the COVID-19 pandemic (22.32%). The vaccination rate in 2020 was 103 (30.7%), while 235 (80.4%) students stated that they have received the vaccine previously. School/work requirements and the student's awareness of the vaccine's importance were the most common reasons for taking the influenza vaccine. CONCLUSION Even though students showed a high level of knowledge and a positive attitude towards the influenza vaccine, they generally had a low level of vaccine uptake. To enhance immunization rates, we encourage vaccine campaigns in all healthcare colleges. Further studies are needed to identify influences on students' attitudes and practices regarding influenza vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abushouk
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs (MNGHA), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Eldigire Ahmed
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs (MNGHA), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zaher Althagafi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrhman Almehmadi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samer Alasmari
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fares Alenezi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhannad Fallata
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan Alshamrani
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang Y, Wu G, Jiang Y, Zou F, Gan L, Luo Q, Wu X, Tang X. Does COVID-19 have an impact on influenza vaccine knowledge, attitude and practice among medical students: a 2-year prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055945. [PMID: 36109037 PMCID: PMC9478856 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the main factors affecting the knowledge, attitude and practice about influenza and influenza vaccine as well as the intention to receive influenza vaccination among the same group of medical students before (2019) and after (2021) the COVID-19 outbreak. DESIGN A population-based prospective cohort study. SETTING A longitudinal cohort study of a selected medical school in Chongqing, China, which ran from 2019 to 2021. PARTICIPANTS A total of 803 medical students participated in the study in 2019 and only 484 students responded in 2021. The response rate for our survey was only 60.27% due to graduation, emails being abandoned, etc. RESULTS: The influenza vaccination rate of students at this medical school was 6.7% in 2019, compared with 25.8% in 2021. The awareness rate of medical students about influenza and influenza vaccine was 82.8% in 2019 and 86% in 2021, and there was no significantly statistical difference between the 2 years (p=0.134); the number of medical students with supportive attitude towards influenza vaccine was 95.1% in 2019 and 97.1% in 2021, and there was no statistically significant difference between the 2 years (p=0.078); the number of students who actively learnt about knowledge related to influenza vaccine rose from 183 (22.8%) in 2019 to 195 (40.3%) in 2021. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 outbreak prompted an increase in influenza vaccination rates among medical students in Chongqing, with almost all students (96.0%) believing that the spread of COVID-19 promoted their knowledge about influenza and influenza vaccine, and the vast majority (74.8%) believing that the spread of COVID-19 promoted their willingness to receive influenza vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Wang
- School of basic medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guangjie Wu
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yueming Jiang
- Clinical 5+3 Integration, The Second Clinical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fa Zou
- School of basic medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Gan
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qinwen Luo
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaorong Wu
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaojun Tang
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Heller JR, Thomas NM, Gruttadauria ES, Reader SM, Sarmiento AL. A qualitative analysis of an online teaching intervention to encourage favorable attitudes toward influenza vaccine among community college students. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022:1-6. [PMID: 36084248 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2117555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To promote influenza vaccine acceptance among community college students during the Fall 2020 semester to reduce the incidence of a "twin-demic" occurring of influenza and COVID-19. Participants: A convenience sample of 185 students enrolled in an entry level health course. Methods: Non-experimental cross-sectional design that used a self-paced, online teaching intervention. Qualitative data in the form of online discussion board posts were collected and analyzed assessing attitudes, normative references, and knowledge. Results: High rates of favorable attitudes toward influenza vaccine, evidence of subjective normative references toward science-based information, and an increase in participant knowledge. Conclusions: An online teaching intervention can be effective in changing attitudes, referencing subjective norms related to scientific information, and increasing knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet R Heller
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Bronx Community College/City University of New York, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Nigel M Thomas
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Bronx Community College/City University of New York, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Elyse S Gruttadauria
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Bronx Community College/City University of New York, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Stacia M Reader
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Bronx Community College/City University of New York, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Ariel L Sarmiento
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Bronx Community College/City University of New York, Bronx, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gandhi S, Harris Bozer A. Factors associated with influenza vaccine noncompliance at a Rural Texas University. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022; 70:1570-1576. [PMID: 32877617 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1810056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate influenza vaccination rates and perceptions underlying vaccine noncompliance. Participants: Participants included undergraduate students (N = 365) at a rural, medium-sized university in Texas. Methods: Students were anonymously surveyed in the spring of 2018 on demographics, insurance status, perceived barriers of influenza vaccination, and vaccination status. Results: Nearly 90% of students had health insurance; however, only 30% of them received the influenza vaccination annually. The top two reasons for non-vaccination were the low perceived threat (20.20%) and having a busy schedule (11.10%). Having health insurance [OR: 2.84, CI: (1.16, 7.0)] and being in the younger age group (18-24) [OR: 1.98, CI: (1.11, 3.54)] were both positively associated with the annual vaccination status. Conclusion: Health education efforts should be focused on vaccination initiatives that increase awareness about the health benefits and ease of access, especially among the older age groups (> =25 years). Information on myths versus facts should also be disseminated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subi Gandhi
- Department of Medical Lab Sciences and Public Health, Tarleton State University, Stephenville, Texas, USA
| | - Amber Harris Bozer
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Tarleton State University, Stephenville, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Implementation of EACS vaccination recommendations among people living with HIV. Infection 2022; 50:1491-1497. [PMID: 35522383 PMCID: PMC9074432 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-022-01827-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Objectives With modern combination antiretroviral Treatment (cART) a normal life expectancy among people living with HIV (PLWH) has become reality if started early enough prior to the onset of more pronounced immunodeficiency. Therefore, prevention measures against other infectious diseases among this vulnerable group have gained increased attention. Indeed, the EACS guidelines recommend vaccinations against HAV, HBV, HPV, Influenza, Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae and VZV in HIV-infected adults. Methods All PLWH under cART attending our ID outpatient clinic between April to June 2018, were assessed during consultation for vaccination status regarding pneumococcus, Hepatitis A and B, influenza, varicella, meningococcus and HPV using a pre-defined questionnaire, vaccination certificates and medical records. In addition, the cohort database was screened for Hepatitis A and B serology and HIV surrogate markers. Results A total of 305 PLWH (82.3% male, 17.7% female) was included, median age was 48 years (IQR 47–51). Median CD4 + T cell count was 543 (IQR 304–770), and for 297 (97.4%) PLWH CD4 + T cell count was ≥ 200/ul. The viral load was undetectable (< 40 copies/ml) in 289 (94.8%) cases. Highest vaccination rates were observed for HAV (87.4%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (77.4%) and Influenza (76.5%). 64.3% PLWH got vaccinated against HBV, whereas VZV vaccination only played a minor role, in the context of the high rate of cleared infections (99.0%). Lowest vaccination rates were detected for HPV (0%) and Neisseria meningitidis (3.0%). Conclusions Our data suggest that vaccination rates among PLWH are higher compared to the general German population. Implementation of EACS guidelines into daily routine though is not fully executed and the need for improving vaccination rates has to be emphasized. Centrally organized vaccination registers as well as electronic medical records could be helpful tools to detect a lack of vaccination coverage and send digital vaccination reminders particularly among risk groups.
Collapse
|
17
|
Pérez-Rivas FJ, Gallego-Lastra RD, Marques-Vieira CMA, López-López C, Domínguez-Fernández S, Rico-Blázquez M, Ajejas Bazán MJ. The Attitude towards Vaccination of Health Sciences Students at a Spanish University Improved over the First 18 Months of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:237. [PMID: 35214695 PMCID: PMC8877000 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10020237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
It is important to know the attitudes of students of health sciences (SHSs) towards vaccination since they will be tomorrow's health professionals. Vaccination is a powerful tool in the fight against COVID-19. The aim of the present, cross-sectional study was to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the attitude of SHSs towards vaccination. Data were collected in the form of a questionnaire from all students of nursing, physiotherapy and chiropody matriculated at a Madrid University for the academic year 2019/2020 (i.e., before the start of the pandemic [Q1]), and from all those matriculated for the year 2021/22 (i.e., c18 months after the pandemic was declared [Q2]). A multivariate analysis was performed to identify the influence of sex, degree being studied, course year and the time of answering (Q1 or Q2), on the dimensions Beliefs, Behaviours and General Attitude. Overall, 1894 questionnaires were returned (934 [49.3%] for Q1, and 960 [50.7%] for Q2), of which 70.5% were completed by students of nursing, 14% by students of physiotherapy and 15.4% by those studying chiropody. In Q2, the results for all three dimensions were significantly better (p < 0.05). The most important influencing factors were being a student of nursing, being in the final years of training (years 3 or 4), female gender and answering at the time of Q2. The results obtained are encouraging since student nurses (who showed Q1 and Q2 General Attitude scores of 3.34 and 3.47 (maximum possible 4), respectively [p < 0.05]) are the health professionals of tomorrow most likely to be involved in vaccination programmes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Pérez-Rivas
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal no. 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (M.J.A.B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Ramón Del Gallego-Lastra
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal no. 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (M.J.A.B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Humanidades, Ciencia y Salud”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Maria Alves Marques-Vieira
- Center Interdisciplinary Research in Health (CIIS), Nursing School (Lisbon), Institute of Health Sciences, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 1649-023 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Candelas López-López
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal no. 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (M.J.A.B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Grupo de Investigación en Cuidados (InveCuid), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Intensive Care, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Domínguez-Fernández
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Centro Municipal de Salud Comunitaria Centro, Madrid Salud, Ayuntamiento de Madrid, 28013 Madrid, Spain
| | - Milagros Rico-Blázquez
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal no. 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (M.J.A.B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Unidad de Investigación de la Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de la Salud, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Julia Ajejas Bazán
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal no. 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (M.J.A.B.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Academia Central de la Defensa, Escuela Militar de Sanidad, Ministerio de Defensa, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ajejas Bazán MJ, Del Gallego-Lastra R, Marques-Vieira CMA, López-López C, Domínguez-Fernández S, Rico-Blázquez M, Pérez-Rivas FJ. Vaccine Coverage against Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 in Health Sciences Students during COVID-19 Pandemic in Spain. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10020159. [PMID: 35214618 PMCID: PMC8875301 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10020159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination against influenza and SARS-CoV-2 is recommended in health sciences students to reduce the risk of acquiring these diseases and transmitting them to patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate how the pandemic influenced the modification of influenza vaccination coverage during the 2019/2020 and 2021/2022 campaigns and to analyze the vaccination coverage against SARS-CoV-2 in health sciences students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of the Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry of the Complutense University of Madrid. A questionnaire was administered in two stages, the first, Q1, before the start of the pandemic, where we analyzed influenza coverage during the 2019/2020 campaign and a second, Q2, 18 months after the start of the pandemic where we analyzed influenza coverage during the 2021/2022 campaign and coverage against SARS-CoV-2. A total of 1894 students (58.78% of the total of those enrolled) participated. Flu vaccination coverage increased from 26.7% in Q1 to 35.0% in Q2 (p < 0.05), being higher in the age group older than 21 years, who studied nursing, were in their fourth year and lived with people at risk. Vaccination coverage against SARS-CoV-2 was very high (97.8%), especially in students vaccinated against influenza. Coverage of the influenza vaccine in health sciences students increased from 2019–2020 to 2021–2022, being higher in the age group older than 21 years, who studied nursing, were in their first and fourth year and lived with people at risk. Coverage of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in health sciences students was very high, especially in those vaccinated against influenza.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Julia Ajejas Bazán
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (F.J.P.-R.)
- Academia Central de la Defensa, Escuela Militar de Sanidad, Ministerio de Defensa, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Correspondence:
| | - Ramón Del Gallego-Lastra
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (F.J.P.-R.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Humanidades, Ciencia y Salud”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Maria Alves Marques-Vieira
- Center Interdisciplinary Research in Health (CIIS), Nursing School (Lisbon), Institute of Health Sciences, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 1649-023 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Candelas López-López
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (F.J.P.-R.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Department of Intensive Care, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Cuidados (InveCuid), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Domínguez-Fernández
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Centro Municipal de Salud Comunitaria Centro, Madrid Salud, Ayuntamiento de Madrid, 28013 Madrid, Spain
| | - Milagros Rico-Blázquez
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (F.J.P.-R.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Unidad de Investigación de la Gerencia Asistencial de Atención Primaria, Servicio Madrileño de la Salud, 28035 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Pérez-Rivas
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.D.G.-L.); (C.L.-L.); (M.R.-B.); (F.J.P.-R.)
- Grupo de Investigación UCM “Salud Pública-Estilos de Vida, Metodología Enfermera y Cuidados en el Entorno Comunitario”, Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Katz M, Azrad M, Glikman D, Peretz A. COVID-19 Vaccination Compliance and Associated Factors among Medical Students during an Early Phase of Vaccination Rollout-A Survey from Israel. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 10:27. [PMID: 35062688 PMCID: PMC8779158 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is "a once-in-a-century" pandemic, bringing with it unparalleled health, social, and economic ramifications. As part of the world's efforts to restrain the pandemic, vaccine development has been expedited. This population-representative survey in Israel aimed to investigate whether the knowledge, attitudes, and vaccination status of medical students affect their intention to recommend COVID-19 vaccination (as well as reasons for refusal and acceptance of the vaccine). The questionnaire was anonymous, via Google Forms app in December 2021. One-hundred and four medical students completed the survey. Overwhelmingly, (91.3%) COVID-19 vaccination status and intention to receive the vaccine were positively associated with intention to recommend. Twenty-five percent of the students replied that they lacked knowledge regarding the vaccine. A statistically significant association was found between experiencing quarantine and the intention to be vaccinated (p = 0.034). There was a significant positive relationship between the number of symptoms from previous vaccines and the fear of COVID-19 (rs = 0.272, p < 0.01). Prior vaccination did not have an effect on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. This first study evaluating COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Israeli medical students highlighted the need for medical programs to emphasize the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination in the protection of healthcare workers and patient safety. Education, awareness campaigns, and regulation of vaccine trials could further decrease COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccine rates among medical students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maayan Katz
- The Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Poriya, Tiberias 1528001, Israel; (M.K.); (M.A.)
| | - Maya Azrad
- The Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Poriya, Tiberias 1528001, Israel; (M.K.); (M.A.)
| | - Daniel Glikman
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed 1311502, Israel;
- The Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Infectious Diseases Unit, Poriya, Tiberias 1528001, Israel
| | - Avi Peretz
- The Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Poriya, Tiberias 1528001, Israel; (M.K.); (M.A.)
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed 1311502, Israel;
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Pavlasová L, Vojíř K. Influenza and influenza vaccination from the perspective of Czech pre-service teachers: knowledge and attitudes. Cent Eur J Public Health 2021; 29:177-182. [PMID: 34623115 DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a6670] [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: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Influenza is a widespread respiratory disease with a potentially risky course. Vaccination is considered the most effective method of prevention. However, only a small portion of the population is vaccinated. Teachers work in a high-risk environment and they have a significant impact on the population through student education. Therefore, the aim of this study was to find out the knowledge and attitudes of pre-service teachers about influenza and vaccination. METHODS A questionnaire survey was conducted to find out what knowledge, attitudes and behaviour pre-service teachers (N = 373) show in relation to influenza and influenza vaccination. It was statistically tested whether there were differences between students with respect to their field of study. RESULTS The majority of pre-service teachers have a good knowledge of influenza symptoms, however, they often mistaken it for other respiratory diseases. The field of study plays only a partial role in the knowledge. The respondents perceive influenza as an easily spread disease, but they have negative attitudes towards vaccination, and most pre-service teachers think that its disadvantages outweigh the advantages. This was stated primarily by pre-services science teachers. These attitudes are also reflected in the low vaccination rate of the sample (6%). CONCLUSIONS Relatively good knowledge of teachers is not reflected in their attitudes and behaviour. Negative attitudes towards vaccination are most held by pre-service teachers, whose field primarily includes teaching this topic. It can have a significant effect on students' attitudes not only toward influenza vaccines but also to other vaccinations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Pavlasová
- Department of Biology and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Education, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Vojíř
- Department of Biology and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Education, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Young adults' preferences for influenza vaccination campaign messages: Implications for COVID-19 vaccine intervention design and development. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 14:100261. [PMID: 34589767 PMCID: PMC8474560 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health campaign interventions, particularly those tailored to the target audience's needs and preferences, can cost-effectively change people's attitudes and behaviors towards better health decision-making. However, there is limited research on how to best tailor seasonal influenza vaccination campaigns for young adults. Vaccination is vital in protecting young adults and their social circles (vulnerable populations like older adults) from the influenza virus and critical in shaping these emerging adults' vaccination habits in the long run. However, amid the prevalence of easily-accessible, attention-grabbing, and often malicious false and misinformation (e.g., COVID-19 vaccine conspiracy theories), it may be more challenging to develop vaccination messages that resonate with young adults well enough to attract their attention. Therefore, to bridge the research gap, this study examines young adults' preferences for seasonal influenza vaccination campaigns to inform effective intervention design and development. Methods Qualitative survey questions were developed to gauge young adults' preferences for seasonal influenza vaccination campaigns. A total of 545 young adults (73.9% female, Mage = 19.89, SD = 1.44) from a large University offered complete answers to a cross-sectional online survey. Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis procedures were adopted to guide the data analysis process. Results Thematic analysis revealed that young adults prefer seasonal influenza vaccination campaigns that rely on (1) quality and balanced information from (2) credible information sources, positioned in the (3) relevant health contexts, (4) emphasize actionable messages, and incorporate (5) persuasive campaign design. Interestingly, while many participants underscored the importance of fear-appeal messages in persuading them to take health actions, some young adults also suggested avoiding fear campaigns due to discomfort. Conclusions Insights of the study can inform seasonal influenza vaccination design and development, and have the potential to shed light on vaccination messaging in other vaccine contexts, such as COVID-19 vaccines. Results also underscore the need for health experts and government officials to adopt a more nuanced approach when selecting persuasive campaign appeals. While some young adults may resonate well with fear appeals, others may not. Future research could examine the underlying mechanisms that drive young adults' preference for vaccination campaign intervention to enrich the literature further.
Collapse
|
22
|
Al Hassan YT, Fabella EL, Estrella ED, Al Ramadan HA, Al Rajeh AM, Al Saleh FH. Association of vaccine awareness and confidence on the influenza vaccination status of Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia residents. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:2190-2196. [PMID: 33517830 PMCID: PMC8189070 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1855954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
While the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health has made seasonal influenza vaccination available for several years, there remains a scarcity of vaccination coverage reports outside of the capital city. Understanding factors that affect vaccine uptake is important in developing strategies to improve coverage. This analytic cross-sectional study utilized data from 1377 adult residents randomly selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure from the three administrative sectors of Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Estimates of influenza vaccine coverage were determined for various demographic groups. Logistic regression was applied to determine the associations among the respondents' awareness on influenza vaccination services, their confidence on the influenza vaccine efficacy and safety and their vaccination status. The estimated influenza vaccination coverage was 44.15% (95% CI = 41.55; 46.79). The proportion of residents who received the influenza vaccine differed between demographic groups. Al Ahsa residents who were aware that influenza vaccine is available and those who were aware that it is available for free were 2.7 and 6.3 times more likely to be immunized (p < .001) compared to those who were unaware. Residents who were confident that it is effective in preventing influenza and its complications were 3.6 times more like to be vaccinated while those who were confident that the vaccine is safe were 4.5 times more likely to be immunized (p < .001). Seasonal influenza coverage in Al Ahsa remains low despite the availability of free immunization in the government health facilities. Awareness about vaccine availability and confidence in vaccine efficacy and safety were important determinants of vaccination status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eduardo L. Fabella
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Edric D. Estrella
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Ahmed Mansour Al Rajeh
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Talarek E, Warzecha J, Banasiuk M, Banaszkiewicz A. Influenza Vaccination Coverage and Intention to Receive Hypothetical Ebola and COVID-19 Vaccines among Medical Students. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:709. [PMID: 34209128 PMCID: PMC8310166 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9070709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to determine influenza vaccine uptake among medical students and their intention to receive a hypothetical Ebola or COVID-19 vaccine. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was performed in 2015 and 2020 on 675 medical students at the Medical University of Warsaw, Poland. In 2020, the influenza vaccination coverage was 36.5%, and students were almost five times more likely to be vaccinated than in 2015 (OR = 4.8; 95% CI: 3.1-7.5). In 2020, the survey was conducted during the first university campaign targeted at free influenza vaccinations for all students, as well as during the first lockdown in Poland due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, clinical students (4th-6th study year) were significantly more often vaccinated than preclinical students (p < 0.001), in contrast to 2015. A majority-67.0% and 94.6%-of students expressed their intention to receive a hypothetical Ebola or COVID-19 vaccine, respectively. Among the medical students, influenza vaccination status was a predictor of the intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Influenza vaccine uptake among medical students has increased significantly, but it is still not optimal; thus, further educational efforts are needed to convince those who are hesitant regarding vaccines. A high number of students reported their intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, and it is crucial to support their positive attitude about it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Talarek
- Department of Children’s Infectious Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Warzecha
- University Children’s Hospital of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Marcin Banasiuk
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Aleksandra Banaszkiewicz
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Saro-Buendía M, Marrero-Sánchez Á, García-Ruiz de Morales D, Chiara-Graciani G, Coderch-Carretero J, Pérez-Jacoiste Asín MA, Silva JT, Fernández-Ruiz M, Arrazola P, Aguado JM, López-Medrano F. Implementation of a program to improve influenza vaccination rates among medical students: a comparative study involving two university affiliated hospitals. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:3662-3669. [PMID: 34129422 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1920269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives: Influenza vaccination rates among medical students (MSs) are below the standards recommended in hospitals where influenza vaccination is not mandatory. We carried out a comparative study in two Spanish university hospitals to reassert this fact and evaluated the impact on vaccination rates of a specific program aimed at promoting influenza vaccination among MSs.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed describing influenza vaccination rates and motivations for vaccination during the 2017/18 campaign among MSs in two hospitals affiliated to the same university. We subsequently performed a community-based intervention study during the 2018/19 campaign evaluating the impact of a strategy for promoting influenza vaccination, comparing the hospital where the intervention took place (hospital A) with the one where it did not take place (hospital B).Results: During de 2017/18 campaign the overall influenza vaccination rate was 44.8%, with no differences between hospitals A and B (difference: 3.9%; 95% CI: -4.36-12.16; p-value = .4). During the 2018/19 campaign, vaccination rate increased to 76.4% in hospital A, with significant differences compared with the previous campaign in the same hospital (29.8%; OR 5.00; 95% CI: 3.14-8.3; p-value = .0001) and with that observed in hospital B in the same campaign (21.1%; 95% CI: 13.38-28.82; p-value <.001).Conclusions: Influenza vaccination rates among MSs in two Spanish university affiliated hospitals were below the recommended standards. A new reproducible strategy for promoting influenza vaccination with a specific approach toward MSs achieved a significant improvement in vaccination rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Saro-Buendía
- School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, University Hospital, "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Marrero-Sánchez
- School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, University Hospital, "12 de Octubre", Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Jaime Coderch-Carretero
- School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, General University Hospital "Gregorio Marañón", Madrid, Spain
| | - María Asunción Pérez-Jacoiste Asín
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (Imas12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Tiago Silva
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (Imas12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mario Fernández-Ruiz
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (Imas12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Arrazola
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University Hospital "12 de Octubre" Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (Imas12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - José María Aguado
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (Imas12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco López-Medrano
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "12 de Octubre", Instituto de Investigación Hospital "12 de Octubre" (Imas12), School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Javier PRF, Ramón DGL, Ana EG, Alves MVCM, Julia ABM. Attitude towards Vaccination among Health Science Students before the COVID-19 Pandemic. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:644. [PMID: 34204741 PMCID: PMC8231584 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9060644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Health science students are tomorrow's health professionals, the duties of whom could include vaccination. This work examines the general attitude towards vaccination in students attending the Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Chiropody at a university in Madrid, Spain, using the 'Attitudes and Behaviour With Regard To Vaccination Among Health Science Students Questionnaire'. The results were subjected to multivariate analysis to identify the influence of sex, the degree being pursued, and 'course year'. The number of students vaccinated against influenza in the campaign preceding the present study was also recorded, as were the factors that influenced decision-making in this regard. A total of 934 students completed the questionnaire. Their beliefs regarding vaccination were positive (mean score 3.23 points out of 4), as was their behaviour (3.35/4). Their general attitude (all variables taken together) was therefore also good (3.27/4). Only 26.8% of the students had been vaccinated against influenza. Beliefs scores among the students of nursing in their more senior course years were significantly better than those recorded for all other groups. These students also showed the best general attitude towards vaccination and formed the largest group vaccinated against influenza. The results obtained are encouraging since nursing students are the most likely of future healthcare professionals to be involved in vaccination programmes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pérez-Rivas Francisco Javier
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal n° 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.G.-L.R.); (A.B.M.J.)
| | - Del Gallego-Lastra Ramón
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal n° 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.G.-L.R.); (A.B.M.J.)
| | - Esteban-Garcimartín Ana
- Estudiante de Grado de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Marques-Vieira Cristina Maria Alves
- Center Interdisciplinary Research in Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Nursing School (Lisbon), Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 1649-023 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Ajejas Bazán María Julia
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia y Podología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal n° 3, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.G.-L.R.); (A.B.M.J.)
- Academia Central de la Defensa, Escuela Militar de Sanidad, Ministerio de Defensa, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Barriers Associated with the Uptake Ratio of Seasonal Flu Vaccine and Ways to Improve Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Young Health Care Workers in Poland. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9050530. [PMID: 34065371 PMCID: PMC8161323 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9050530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite not being full-time health care workers, annual flu vaccination is nevertheless an important consideration for medical students. This study examined the reasons for refusing flu vaccination among medical students, a group characterized by low vaccination coverage, despite the fact that the flu vaccine is arguably the most effective way of preventing serious flu complications. A cross-sectional survey was performed of 1313 students at the Medical University of Lodz. The findings indicate that the main sites of vaccination were primary care centers, and main source of information about influenza vaccination (about 90% of cases) was the general practitioner (GP). The most common motivations for vaccination were a recommendation by the family doctor or the belief that it was an important factor for protection against influenza. Most students reported various adverse effects after vaccination, usually mild pain at the site of vaccination, malaise, or fever. The main reasons for rejecting influenza vaccination were the apparent low risk of disease, the need for annual vaccination, the need to pay for it, lack of time or opportunity, lack of vaccination promotion, negative attitudes toward the flu vaccine, or the belief that there are other methods of preventing flu. To increase long-term vaccine acceptance and increase the vaccination rate among medical students and qualified health care workers, there is a need to adapt the health system and to initiate ongoing promotion programs at university to raise consciousness, promote vaccinations, and develop clinical skills for immunization.
Collapse
|
27
|
Tuells J, Egoavil CM, Morales-Moreno I, Fortes-Montoya E, Salazar-García C, Rodríguez-Blanco N. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Sources of Information on Vaccines in Spanish Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18073356. [PMID: 33805085 PMCID: PMC8036398 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Health professionals are the most influential and main sources of information about vaccines for the general population, as they are regarded as role models by patients and society. The objective of the present study was to determine the knowledge and attitudes of a group of university Nursing students about vaccines, as well as their sources of information and their education needs. A cross-sectional study was performed through a questionnaire (55 items) provided to Nursing students at two Spanish universities. A total of 1122 students participated in the study. The mean score obtained for knowledge about vaccines was 44.6 ± 4.3, and for attitudes towards vaccines, it was 37.2 ± 3.9. Hepatitis B (94.7%) and the Flu (89%) are the two main vaccines they should receive as health workers. The main source of information was the family environment (65.6%). Most of them considered that post-graduate education about vaccines should be provided by academic entities (universities, 62.7%). Among the health professionals, Nurses (85.5%) must be better educated and trained on the subject of vaccines. It is therefore necessary to delve into and complete the nurses’ training on vaccines, to educate them about the risks at the individual level, and their decisive role as promoters of the vaccination strategy for the general population. Universities must become the leaders in vaccine education and training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Tuells
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine and Public Health and History of Science, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, 03690 Alicante, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-965-903838
| | - Cecilia M. Egoavil
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Alicante University General Hospital, 03010 Alicante, Spain; (C.M.E.); (C.S.-G.)
| | - Isabel Morales-Moreno
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM) Campus de los Jerónimos, N. 135 Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Elena Fortes-Montoya
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine and Public Health and History of Science, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, 03690 Alicante, Spain;
| | - Carlos Salazar-García
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Alicante University General Hospital, 03010 Alicante, Spain; (C.M.E.); (C.S.-G.)
| | - Noelia Rodríguez-Blanco
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Marina Baixa University Hospital, Av. Alcalde En Jaume Botella Mayor, 7, 03570 Villajoyosa, Spain;
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, Plaza Reyes Católicos, 19, 03204 Elche, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Social norms and vaccine uptake: College students' COVID vaccination intentions, attitudes, and estimated peer norms and comparisons with influenza vaccine. Vaccine 2021; 39:2060-2067. [PMID: 33741191 PMCID: PMC7965606 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Vaccination may be critical to curtailing the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, but herd immunity can only be realized with high vaccination coverage. There is a need to identify empirically supported strategies to increase uptake, especially among young adults as this subpopulation has shown relatively poor adherence to physical distancing guidelines. Social norms – estimates of peers’ behavior and attitudes – are robust predictors of health behaviors and norms-based intervention strategies may increase COVID vaccine uptake, once available. This study examined the extent that vaccination intentions and attitudes were associated with estimated social norms as an initial proof-of-concept test. Method In November of 2020, 647 undergraduate students (46.21% response rate) completed online surveys in which they reported intentions to get COVID and influenza vaccines, perceived importance of these vaccines for young adults, and estimated social norms regarding peers’ vaccination behaviors and attitudes. Results Students reported significantly greater intentions to get a COVID vaccine (91.64%) than an influenza vaccine (76.04%), and perceived COVID vaccination as significantly more important than influenza vaccination. The sample generally held strong intentions to receive a COVID vaccine and thought that doing so was of high importance, but participants, on average, perceived that other young adults would be less likely to be vaccinated and would not think vaccination was as important. Multiple regression models indicated that estimated social norms were positively associated with participants’ own intentions and perceived importance of getting a COVID vaccine. Conclusions These significant associations highlight the potential value in developing and testing norms-based intervention strategies, such as personalized normative feedback, to improve uptake of forthcoming COVID vaccines among young adults.
Collapse
|
29
|
Knowledge, Beliefs and Attitudes towards the Influenza Vaccine among Future Healthcare Workers in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18042105. [PMID: 33671482 PMCID: PMC7926487 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The flu vaccine is the best treatment for avoiding the flu and its complications. The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge of the flu vaccine and attitude towards the influenza vaccine among medical students in four majors of study (Nursing, Midwifery, Pharmacy, and Public health) in all years of study. A total number of 1137 subjects took part in the study. Most of the vaccinated students assessed the flu vaccine positively (78.5%, 73.7%, 60.7%, and 65.1%, according to their respective majors) and reported that they did not get the flu during the period of vaccination (90.4%, 92.1%, 87.4%, and 97.7%, respectively). Therefore, 65% of the students of Pharmacy, 78% of Midwifery, and 83% of Nursing who were vaccinated once in the last three years recommended the influenza vaccination, and 100% of all students received a regular vaccination every year. The univariate and multivariate logistic regressions showed that a maximum of four factors had a significant impact on the students’ knowledge of the influenza vaccine. Knowledge about the flu vaccine was the highest among Pharmacy students and lowest among Public health students. Final-year students answered the questions better than the younger ones (p < 0.05). Their place of residence and flu vaccination status also appeared to influence their answers. Although all students demonstrated good knowledge of the flu vaccine and demonstrated positive attitudes towards the vaccine, their rate of immunization was low. Therefore, health promotion programs are needed to improve immunization coverage among medical students who are future healthcare workers.
Collapse
|
30
|
Shon EJ, Choe S, Lee L, Ki Y. Influenza Vaccination Among U.S. College or University Students: A Systematic Review. Am J Health Promot 2021; 35:708-719. [PMID: 33530696 DOI: 10.1177/0890117120985833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Influenza is one of the major causes of morbidity. This study summarized major components that influence college/university students' use of the vaccination using Ecological System Theory; and evaluated racial differences in key predictors of influenza vaccination/intention. DATA SOURCE Sixteen engines (e.g., PsycINFO, Academic Search Premier, Science Citation Index) were used to search for cross-sectional studies (2009-2019). STUDY INCLUSION/EXCLUSION CRITERIA PI/CO criteria were applied (U.S. students, multidimensional ecological system, influenza vaccination/intention). DATA EXTRACTION 25 cross-sectional studies were included from the initial 810 citations. Four reviewers performed the cross-checking. DATA SYNTHESIS AND RESULTS Higher SES (e.g., education, vaccine affordability, healthcare resource) were positively associated with vaccination/intention. Under micro levels, both internal factors (e.g., positive beliefs, perceptions, attitudes) and external factors (e.g., supports/recommendations from physicians, families or peers, information, engagement in campus activities) enhanced influenza vaccination/intention of students. Meso level factors (private university, dorm-residence, or student housing) also influenced influenza vaccination/intention. Despite limited information on the effects of race on influenza vaccination, the current study synthesized the racial variances in vaccination behaviors of students. CONCLUSIONS Enhancing positive beliefs, perceptions, or attitudes toward influenza vaccination with students is critical. Information about the safety and effectiveness of vaccination could be provided for students through official media, medical sources/physicians, campaigns, or internet websites. Family-to-student or peer-to-peer awareness campaigns could facilitate the vaccination of students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- En-Jung Shon
- Department of Social Welfare, 6403Duksung Women's University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Siyoung Choe
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, 6403Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Lena Lee
- Department of Teacher Education, 6403Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Youn Ki
- Department of Political Science, 6403Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA.,Institute of International Affairs, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Deka A, Pantha B, Bhattacharyya S. Optimal Management of Public Perceptions During A Flu Outbreak: A Game-Theoretic Perspective. Bull Math Biol 2020; 82:139. [PMID: 33064223 PMCID: PMC7563916 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-020-00817-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
Public perceptions and sentiments play a crucial role in the success of vaccine uptake in the community. While vaccines have proven to be the best preventive method to combat the flu, the attitude and knowledge about vaccines are a major hindrance to higher uptake in most of the countries. The yearly coverage, especially in the vulnerable groups in the population, often remains below the herd immunity level despite the Flu Awareness Campaign organized by WHO every year worldwide. This brings immense challenges to the nation's public health protection agency for strategic decision-making in controlling the flu outbreak every year. To understand the impact of public perceptions and vaccination decisions while designing optimal immunization policy, we model the individual decision-making as a two-strategy pairwise contest game, where pay-off is considered as a function of public health effort for the campaign. We use Pontryagin's maximum principle to identify the best possible strategy for public health to implement vaccination and reduce infection at a minimum cost. Our optimal analysis shows that the cost of public health initiatives is qualitatively and quantitatively different under different public perceptions and attitudes towards vaccinations. When individual risk perception evolves with vaccine uptake or disease induced death, our model demonstrates a feed-forward mechanism in the dynamics of vaccination and exhibits an increase in vaccine uptake. Using numerical simulation, we also observe that the optimal cost can be minimized by putting the effort in the beginning and later part of the outbreak rather than during the peak. It confers that public health efforts towards disseminating disease severity or actual vaccination risk might accelerate the vaccination coverage and mitigate the infection faster.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aniruddha Deka
- Disease Modelling Lab, Department of Mathematics, School of Natural Sciences, NH-91, Gautam Buddha Nagar, UP India
| | - Buddhi Pantha
- College of Arts and Sciences, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Tifton, GA USA
| | - Samit Bhattacharyya
- Disease Modelling Lab, Department of Mathematics, School of Natural Sciences, NH-91, Gautam Buddha Nagar, UP India
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Knowledge, Attitude, and Barriers Influencing Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Uptake. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 2020:7653745. [PMID: 33123302 PMCID: PMC7585653 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7653745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that are highly contagious and circulate in all parts of the world. It gives rise to an estimated 3 to 5 million cases of severe illness and about 250,000 to 500,000 deaths globally each year. Influenza tends to cause epidemics with serious illness and death among high-risk groups such as children aged 5 years and younger, pregnant women, elderly ≥65 years of age, and with chronic medical conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), all people who are 6 months old and above are recommended to receive the seasonal influenza vaccine annually. Despite the fact that influenza vaccine is readily available, and the severity of the disease is known to adversely affect the individual's quality of life and well-being, vaccination uptake rates are still low, contributing to the increased burden of the disease worldwide. Objectives To measure the influenza vaccine uptake among residents of Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia, that determines their attitude, knowledge, and beliefs regarding the vaccine. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered structured questionnaire distributed online targeting residents of Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia, from 1st of August 2019 till 30th of September 2019. Participants were selected through volunteer sampling. The questionnaire included demographic data including age, gender, occupation, education level, marital status, and comorbidities. It also included questions regarding knowledge, attitude, and beliefs regarding influenza vaccine. After collection of data, statistical analyses were conducted by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19.0. A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Our study included 503 participants, with age ranging from 18 to 65 years old and 324 (64%) were females. 100 participants (19.9%) had comorbid conditions, and 223 (44.3%) have been vaccinated against influenza in the past. A large portion of participants (41.2%) were familiar with seasonal influenza vaccination from the media. The knowledge part of the questionnaire showed that 302 (60%) participants knew how often they should receive the vaccine and 313 (62.2%) participants knew that the vaccine is provided freely in all of Saudi Arabia. In terms of belief and attitude, 371 participants (73.8%) thought they were susceptible to the disease and 365 (73.8%) believed that influenza vaccine is beneficial, while 446 participants (88.7%) thought that the general public need more knowledge and awareness on the scientific facts of influenza vaccine. Regarding barriers, 295 participants (58.6%) wanted to avoid vaccines and 252 (50.1%) were concerned about the vaccine's adverse effects. Participants with frequent health checkups and those who had previous knowledge on the availability of the vaccine for free were more likely to be vaccinated. Vaccinated participants (44.3%) were asked if they were willing to take the vaccine again when it is due, 158 (70.9%) answered yes. Those who elicited symptomatic reaction to the vaccine (26.0%) were less inclined to take it again (P = 0.035). Conclusion We concluded that there is a low influenza vaccine uptake rate among our study population, considering that the barriers most commonly chosen by participants are solvable with health education and campaigns oriented towards delivering facts about the vaccine and dispelling misinformation; such measures are highly recommended and are postulated to carry a great benefit that should target common misconceptions identified in this study.
Collapse
|
33
|
Sandler K, Srivastava T, Fawole OA, Fasano C, Feemster KA. Understanding vaccine knowledge, attitudes, and decision-making through college student interviews. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2020; 68:593-602. [PMID: 30908142 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2019.1583660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Objective: We aimed to explore knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about vaccines required for college-entry and vaccine-related behaviors among college students. Participants: Thirty-three full-time undergraduate students, ≥ 18 years old, enrolled at public (2) and private (3) colleges and universities in metropolitan Philadelphia in fall 2016. Methods: We conducted semistructured interviews, which were double-coded with 5,015 comments overall and 99.3% intercoder reliability (κ = 0.779) using NVivo 11 software. Results: Six key themes emerged: (1) low knowledge about vaccines and requirements; (2) mixed attitudes about required vs. recommended vaccines; (3) high trust in medical professionals; (4) low perceived risk for vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks; (5) substantial parental influence on students' decision-making; and (6) low utilization of Student Health Services. Conclusions: This study revealed lack of knowledge about and low prioritization of vaccination despite overall positive attitudes towards vaccines. Prematriculation education of college students is critical to increasing vaccine knowledge and use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Sandler
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tuhina Srivastava
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Oluwatunmise A Fawole
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Caitlin Fasano
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kristen A Feemster
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Alhawsawi MM, Alghamdi AA, Alzayed BM, Binmugren HM, Alshehri RA, Abusalih HH. Knowledge, barriers and uptake of influenza vaccine among non-health college students at Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. J Public Health Res 2020; 9:1856. [PMID: 33042898 PMCID: PMC7525666 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2020.1856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Viral influenza, one of the global public health problems is specifically important in Saudi Arabia due to high susceptibility of transmission in hajj and umrah seasons (Islamic pilgrimage to the Mecca), as it has the ability to spread widely to a large proportion, in addition the disease has a higher rate of complications that might lead to death. Vaccination is an important strategy in prevention of viral influenza. Design and methods: The study aimed to describe the association between uptake of influenza vaccine with knowledge as well as identify the barriers that prevent vaccination among Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) non-health colleges students. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was undertaken, including 385 students from non-health colleges using a convenience sampling technique. Data was collected using an Arabic self-administered online questionnaire Analysis done by JMP program. IRB approval as well as informed consent were taken. Results: The uptake of the influenza vaccine was 15.3% in the current year and 56.8% in the previous years. No significant association was found between knowledge, and uptake of the vaccine. For the unvaccinated students, the most common encounter barriers stated by study population were concerns regarding the vaccine effectiveness, reduction of immunity the uncertainty of complete protection in a percentage of 12.0% for all. Conclusions: Although the level of vaccine uptake is low for this year, it is not associated with knowledge. There were some barriers that need to be tackled by health education programs. Significance for public health The identification of the factors that prevent university students from uptake of the influenza vaccine are essential to maximize vaccine uptake as Influenza continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality in whole world, including Saudi Arabia. Studies exploring influenza vaccine coverage for students are considered important in order to find out the misconception and target it by health education program, which ultimately increase the coverage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malak M Alhawsawi
- Epidemiology Program, College of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad A Alghamdi
- Epidemiology Program, College of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Balqees M Alzayed
- Epidemiology Program, College of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hessa M Binmugren
- Epidemiology Program, College of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad A Alshehri
- Epidemiology Program, College of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Howeida H Abusalih
- Epidemiology Program, College of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Adelman M, Barrickman AL, Garofoli GK. Adolescent Vaccines. Prim Care 2020; 47:217-229. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
36
|
Cella P, D'Angelo M, Dallagiacoma G, Provenzano S, Santangelo OE, Gianfredi V. Healthcare Students' Flu Vaccine Uptake in the Last 5 Years and Future Vaccination Acceptance: Is There a Possible Association? J Res Health Sci 2020; 20:e00474. [PMID: 32814696 PMCID: PMC7585752 DOI: 10.34172/jrhs.2020.09] [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: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite the free-of-charge offer of influenza vaccines to at-risk subgroups, vaccine coverage remains low and far from the target, probably due to the false myths and misperceptions. We aimed to explore the healthcare students’ vaccination behavior and beliefs to find any association between vaccination uptake during the last 5 years and future vaccination acceptance.
Study design: A multicentre cross-sectional study.
Methods: From Oct 2017 to Nov 2018, the Italian healthcare students from 14 different universities in 2017/2018 were enrolled, through an online and anonymous questionnaire previously validated. Absolute and relative frequencies were calculated and Pearson's Chi-square test was used. A multinomial logistic regression model was performed. Results are expressed as relative Risk Ratio (RR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI). The level of significance chosen was P-value <0.05.
Results: A total of 3137 students were enrolled and 3131 questionnaires were analysed. 82.7% of the sample declared they had not received any flu vaccination during the last 5 years. Students who received flu vaccination 4 times or more during the last 5 years were more likely to do it again next year as well (95.1% vs 4.9%). The regression model showed that having received flu vaccination over the last 5 years was statistically associated with the intention of getting vaccinated during next season.
Conclusions: Frequency of flu vaccination is predictive for future acceptance among healthcare students. This association could have both implications for the organization of vaccination campaigns and improve educational strategies for this category of students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Cella
- Unit of Clinical Governance, Local Health Authority of Piacenza, Piacenza, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Dallagiacoma
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, via Forlanini, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sandro Provenzano
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care 'Giuseppe D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Omar Enzo Santangelo
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care 'Giuseppe D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenza Gianfredi
- Post-Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine. Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kawahara Y, Nishiura H. Exploring Influenza Vaccine Uptake and Its Determinants among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8010052. [PMID: 32013015 PMCID: PMC7158679 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8010052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
While vaccination is the only established option to prevent a susceptible host from influenza, we have yet to clarify the decision-making mechanisms of vaccine uptake among Japanese university and college students. We aimed to explore vaccination coverage and the related demographic, sociocultural, and socioeconomic factors among university students. We performed a cross-sectional survey involving 604 students at Hokkaido University. Participants were asked if they received influenza vaccination in advance of the 2018/19 season, and subsequently, their demographic and sociocultural/socioeconomic characteristics were surveyed. We also explored the mechanisms underlying students’ vaccination decisions. Vaccination coverage was estimated at 27.3% (95% confidence interval: 23.7–30.9). Freshmen (p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with choosing vaccination, and their odds ratio of vaccination was 11.3 (95% confidence interval: 6.2–20.7) times greater than students in other years. Among students other than freshmen, students belonging to medicine- and healthcare-related faculties were vaccinated three times more frequently than other students, and the coverage in students from Hokkaido was twice as large as that for students from other prefectures. Moreover, extracurricular activity was a positive predictor of vaccination. Although the coverage was as small as 27.3% among university students, freshmen in Japan have high vaccination coverage, which we believe is associated with the entrance examination during high influenza activity. In addition to exposing students to proper education regarding their risk self-assessment, consciousness raising via appropriate understanding of influenza and its severity and offering vaccination at university health centers at a reasonable cost may promote vaccine acceptance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukako Kawahara
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15 Jo Nishi 7 Chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 060-8638, Japan;
- Hokkaido University Health Center, Kita 16 Jo Nishi 7 Chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 060-0816, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishiura
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15 Jo Nishi 7 Chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 060-8638, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-11-706-5066
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Su Z, Chengbo Z, Mackert M. Understanding the influenza vaccine as a consumer health technology: a structural equation model of motivation, behavioral expectation, and vaccine adoption. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2019.1680038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Su
- Department of Mass Communication, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, East Central University, Ada, OK, USA
| | - Zeng Chengbo
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Michael Mackert
- Stan Richards School of Advertising & Public Relations, Moody College of Communication, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Population Health, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Center for Health Communication, Moody College of Communication, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Daudel L, Mary J, Epaulard O. Perception of mandatory infant vaccines and trust in vaccination among first-year healthcare students: An opportunity window for the training of future healthcare workers. Vaccine 2019; 38:794-799. [PMID: 31708179 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.10.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A high level of vaccine hesitancy is observed in France; to maintain a high level of vaccine coverage, a policy of mandatory vaccines has been applied since January 2019. As vaccine hesitancy has been described among healthcare workers, we aimed to assess the adhesion to vaccination in students enrolled in the first common year of healthcare studies (PACES), and their perceptions regarding the mandatory vaccine policy. METHODS We elaborated an anonymous online questionnaire and asked the 35 French universities offering PACES studies to diffuse it to their students; 26 accepted. RESULTS Overall, 4326 participants completed the questionnaire (age 18.7 ± 1.5 years, female 76.1%). They evaluated vaccine usefulness and harmfulness at a median of 90 [IQT:80-100] and 25 [IQT:10-50], respectively; on the same scale, their median trust in vaccines was 82 [IQT:70-94]. Among the five main age classes (17 to 21 years), the positive perceptions of vaccination declined with age. A majority declared that making vaccines mandatory was morally and scientifically justified (65.7% and 84.7%, respectively); in response to the questionnaire showing a blatant anti-mandatory vaccine billboard, 52.3% and 28.6%, respectively, strongly disagreed or rather disagreed with it. Again, these proportions declined between 17 and 21 years. Participants were asked whether the mandatory vaccine policy would improve their perceptions of vaccination; those with poorer perceptions were less likely to answer this question positively. CONCLUSION The perceptions of vaccination and the recent mandatory vaccine policy are positive in first-year students but better in younger ones, thus suggesting that vaccination should be taught early, during this study year. The mandatory vaccine policy may not improve the perceptions of those with a high level of vaccine hesitancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lola Daudel
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Grenoble-Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France; Fédération d'Infectiologie Multidisciplinaire de l'Arc Alpin, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Jessica Mary
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Grenoble-Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France; Fédération d'Infectiologie Multidisciplinaire de l'Arc Alpin, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Olivier Epaulard
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Grenoble-Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France; Fédération d'Infectiologie Multidisciplinaire de l'Arc Alpin, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Fawole OA, Srivastava T, Feemster KA. Student health administrator perspectives on college vaccine policy development and implementation. Vaccine 2019; 37:4118-4123. [PMID: 31164307 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.05.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunization policies at colleges and universities differ greatly for many reasons, including prior experience with disease outbreaks and state immunization requirements. Few studies comprehensively explore the range of factors that influence the development of college vaccine policies or facilitators and barriers to their implementation. OBJECTIVE To explore the perceptions and decision-making process that influence college vaccine policy development and implementation from the perspective of student health administrators. METHODS This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with student health administrators (N = 10) from ten U.S. colleges and universities purposefully sampled by school type (public vs. private) and geographic region. A descriptive codebook was developed from the interview guide, and each interview was double-coded using NVivo 11 software (κ = 0.87; inter-observer reliability = 99.4%). RESULTS We coded 5785 phrases. Administrators positively viewed their institutions' vaccine requirements, but some expressed concerns about the acceptance of philosophical and religious exemptions. They noted that students were generally ambivalent towards vaccine requirements, and while students recognized the benefits of vaccination, they did not prioritize immunizations. All administrators cited reliance on governmental and professional organizations as well as state regulations for decisions regarding vaccine requirements and recommendations at their institutions. Partnerships with other school departments, pharmaceutical companies, immunization coalitions, and healthcare providers were frequently cited as facilitators of college vaccine programs. Costs of purchasing, storing, and tracking vaccines were identified as major barriers. CONCLUSIONS We identified key themes that can be evaluated in subsequent studies to identify factors associated with successful implementation of university immunization programs and inform initiatives to increase vaccine acceptance and optimize immunization rates on college and university campuses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatunmise A Fawole
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Suite 1202 ARC, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Tuhina Srivastava
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Suite 1202 ARC, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Kristen A Feemster
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Vaccine Education Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Suite 1202 ARC, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States; Philadelphia Department of Public Health, 1101 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States.
| |
Collapse
|