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Alrasheedy AA, Alharbi AT, Alturaifi HA, Alkhamis RA, Almazyad RS, Almozaini SS, Godman B, Meyer JC. Community pharmacists' knowledge, beliefs, and perceived barriers toward vaccination services at community pharmacies: A cross-sectional study from Saudi Arabia. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2414551. [PMID: 39693183 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2414551] [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: 07/26/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 10/06/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Community pharmacists were recently authorized to provide vaccination services in Saudi Arabia. However, the implementation is still limited. Consequently, this study aimed to assess the knowledge, beliefs, and views of community pharmacists in the Qassim region regarding vaccines and vaccination services and to identify the barriers to providing such services. A total of 170 community pharmacists participated in the study (response rate = 73.91%). The mean overall knowledge of vaccines and vaccination was 10.25 ± 1.35 out of a maximum score of 14. The majority stated that vaccines are rigorously tested for their safety (92.94%), go through a stringent approval process to ensure their quality and efficacy (93.53%), and vaccines play a key role in preventing and controlling infectious disease outbreaks (97.06%). However, only 48.82% were aware that community pharmacists are legally authorized to provide adult vaccination services. Few participants were also aware of the dosing of the varicella vaccine (14.12%) and indications of the herpes zoster vaccine (21.18%). The overall mean score on beliefs/views was 31.91 ± 5.53 out of a maximum of 40, indicating positive beliefs/views regarding vaccination services. The study identified many barriers to implementing vaccination services. These included lack of support staff and technicians in community pharmacies (79.41%), lack of requirements and equipment to provide the service (74.11%), the service will add extra workload (72.94%), and lack of formal certification in pharmacy-based immunization delivery (66.48%). Consequently, a holistic strategy is required to improve pharmacists' clinical knowledge of vaccines and to address the barriers to the implementation of vaccination services at community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alian A Alrasheedy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alanoud T Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hajar A Alturaifi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Razan A Alkhamis
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reema S Almazyad
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaden S Almozaini
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
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Wang J, Wang Y, Li Y, Ma M, Xie Y, Zhang Y, Guo J, Shi J, Sun C, Chi H, Tang H, Ermakov V, Jiao M. Bibliometric and visual analyses of vaccine literacy research from 1982 to 2023. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2363019. [PMID: 39693185 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2363019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccine literacy (VL) is an important part of health literacy (HL), which is of great significance in reducing vaccine hesitancy and improving vaccine coverage rate. We aimed to perform a bibliometric analysis of VL research conducted from 1982 to 2023 to evaluate its current status and prospects. All relevant publications were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database and the Scopus database. The Bibliometrix R-package and VOSviewer software were used to analyze the publication outputs, countries, organizations, authors, journals, cited publications, and keywords. In total, 1,612 publications were included. The number of articles published on VL generally showed an increasing trend. The United States was in a leading position among all countries and had the closest connections with other countries and organizations. Its in-depth study of vaccine hesitancy provided a good foundation for VL research. Harvard University was the most productive organization. Bonaccorsi G was the most productive and cited author. VACCINES was the most productive journal. Research topics primarily revolved around vaccination, HL, vaccine hesitancy, and COVID-19 vaccine. In conclusion, the current research on the conceptual connotation and influencing factors of VL is insufficiently deep and should be further improved in the future to distinguish it from HL in a deeper manner. More tools for measuring VL need to be developed, such as those applicable to different populations and vaccines. The more complex relationship between VL, vaccine hesitancy and vaccination needs to be further explored. Gender differences deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingzhi Wang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yazhou Wang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yuanheng Li
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Mingxue Ma
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yuzhuo Xie
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiaqi Guo
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiajun Shi
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Chao Sun
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haoyu Chi
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hanye Tang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Vsevolod Ermakov
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Mingli Jiao
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
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Alhasan KA, Raina R, Boyer O, Koh J, Bonilla-Felix M, Sethi SK, Amer YS, Coccia P, Temsah MH, Exantus J, Khan SA, Zhong X, Koch V, Duzova A, Vasudevan A, McCulloch M, Allen U, Filler G, Montini G. IPNA clinical practice recommendations on care of pediatric patients with pre-existing kidney disease during seasonal outbreak of COVID-19. Pediatr Nephrol 2024:10.1007/s00467-024-06565-5. [PMID: 39733391 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-024-06565-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 12/31/2024]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, instigated by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has profoundly impacted healthcare infrastructures around the globe. While children are usually asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, children with pre-existing kidney conditions require specialized attention. This pivotal report, championed by the International Pediatric Nephrology Association (IPNA), delivers precise and actionable recommendations tailored for pediatric patients with kidney ailments in this pandemic landscape. Central to our findings are rigorous infection control protocols. These are particularly stringent in high-risk zones, emphasizing telehealth's indispensable role, the significance of curtailing in-person consultations, and the imperative of following rigorous guidelines in regions with heightened COVID-19 prevalence. Additionally, the report delves into vaccination approaches for children with kidney issues, highlighting that the choice of vaccine is often governed by regional accessibility and policy frameworks, rather than a universal preference. A notable observation is the potential correlation between COVID-19 vaccines and specific kidney disorders. However, establishing a direct causal link remains elusive. In summary, our research accentuates the critical need for specialized pediatric kidney care during global health crises and reaffirms the continuous research imperative, especially regarding vaccination ramifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid A Alhasan
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Organ Transplant Center of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Kidney & Pancreas Health Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Rupesh Raina
- Department of Nephrology, Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Akron Children Hospital, Akron, OH, USA
| | - Olivia Boyer
- Paris Cité University, Pediatric Nephrology, Reference Center for Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children and Adults, Imagine Institute, Necker Children's Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Jean Koh
- Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Starship Children's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Melvin Bonilla-Felix
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Sidharth K Sethi
- Pediatric Nephrology, Kidney Institute, Medanta, The Medicity Hospital, Gurgaon, 122001, Haryana, India
| | - Yasser S Amer
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Clinical Practice Guidelines and Quality Research Unit, Quality Management Department, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Internal Medicine Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula Coccia
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mohamad-Hani Temsah
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Judith Exantus
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, State University of Haïti, State University Hospital of Haïti, Port-Au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Samina A Khan
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Xuhui Zhong
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Vera Koch
- Children's Institute Hospital das Clinicas Univ Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ali Duzova
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Anil Vasudevan
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, St. John's Academy of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, India
| | - Mignon McCulloch
- Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Upton Allen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and the Transplant and Regenerative Medicine Center, Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Guido Filler
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital, London Health Science Centre, Western University, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, ON, N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Giovanni Montini
- Pediatric Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
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Salman M, Mallhi TH, Khan YH, Ul Mustafa Z, Tanweer A, Ikram M, Hussain K, Butt MH, Ramdas N, Meyer JC, Godman B. Parental experience with childhood COVID-19 vaccines and factors associated with parental hesitancy despite being vaccinated: findings of a cross-sectional analysis from Pakistan and implications for the future. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e086877. [PMID: 39658278 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-086877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined parental experiences with COVID-19 vaccination and factors contributing to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (CVH) among them to help guide future policy initiatives. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Lahore, the second largest metropolis in Pakistan. PARTICIPANTS This study was conducted among parents residing in Lahore from March to April 2023. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling. OUTCOME MEASURES Data were collected using a prevalidated questionnaire that consisted of four sections: (1) informed consent, (2) demographic details, (3) COVID-19 vaccine uptake in children aged 5-17 years, parents' experience with childhood COVID-19 vaccination and their intention to vaccinate their unvaccinated children and (4) a modified 5C scale tailored to determine parents' confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation and collective responsibility with regard to COVID-19 vaccination. RESULTS This study included 414 parents (median age=37 years; mothers=62%). COVID-19 vaccination rates for children in the age groups 12-17 years and 5-11 years were 72.5% and 30.1%, respectively. Transient adverse events following immunisation were reported by 32.7% of parents. Of parents with unvaccinated children aged 12-17 years, only 35% intended to vaccinate them. The majority of parents were not willing to vaccinate their children below 11 years of age. Parents with a self-reported positive history of COVID-19 disease (OR=2.531, p=0.016), and confident in the vaccine's safety and efficacy (OR=1.968, p=0.010), were more inclined to vaccinate their 5-11 years. In terms of vaccination of children below 5 years, confidence in the vaccine (OR=2.942, p=0.003) and a sense of collective responsibility were positive predictors (OR=2.260, p=0.035), while calculation was identified as a negative predictor of parents' intention to vaccinate their under 5 years (OR=0.421, p=0.018). CONCLUSION CVH was significantly higher among parents of children aged 5-11 years and children younger than 5 years old. Priority should be given by health authorities to address parental concerns about vaccines and ensure that parents understand the significance of vaccination in protecting their children, to increase vaccination rates. This is because hesitancy towards one specific vaccine can negatively impact hesitancy rates in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical sciences, Taylors University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical sciences, Taylors University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital, Pakpattan, Pakistan
| | - Abiha Tanweer
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muneeba Ikram
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Khalid Hussain
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hammad Butt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nishana Ramdas
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
- Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, UAE
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5
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Wang X, Xing Y, Zhang E, Dai Z, Li Y, Shang S, Hu J, Zhang X, Fang Q. Understanding herpes zoster vaccine hesitancy and information asymmetry: a qualitative study in China. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1429522. [PMID: 39286749 PMCID: PMC11402811 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1429522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Herpes zoster is more prevalent among the older adult due to the age-related immune decline, leading to significant pain and complications. Although vaccination effectively prevents viral infections, vaccine hesitancy remains a major barrier to achieving high vaccination rates.To address this, we conducted a qualitative survey using Vaccine Hesitancy Determinants Matrix and 5C model to understand and improve vaccination rates in this group. Methods Descriptive qualitative research design based on the philosophical underpinnings of naturalistic inquiry and purposive sampling methodology was conducted on adults aged 50 and above, as well as community health workers. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth personal interviews. The interview outline was constructed following a comprehensive review of the literature and consideration of the theoretical framework. Results Seventeen adults over 50 years and four community healthcare workers were included in this study. The study found that information asymmetry in immunization planning was evident at all stages of vaccine supply, dissemination and demand. The main manifestations included limited access to authoritative information, insufficient community awareness of herpes zoster as a route of vaccination, insufficient vocational training, significant gaps in vaccine knowledge, and high levels of complacency among individual residents. Conclusion Herpes zoster vaccine hesitancy is prevalent among middle-aged and older adults in China due to information asymmetry, vaccine complacency, inadequate community services, and other multiple layers of factors. Public health strategies should aim to reduce cognitive biases and information gaps by disseminating diverse and credible vaccine information through social media, medical institutions, and offline channels to promote higher vaccination rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Wang
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yufei Xing
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Enming Zhang
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengyue Dai
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Li
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuhui Shang
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiale Hu
- Department of Nurse Anesthesia, College of Health Professions, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, CA, United States
| | - Xian Zhang
- Department of Nursing, Caohejing Community Health Service Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiong Fang
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Quach HQ, Ratishvili T, Haralambieva IH, Ovsyannikova IG, Poland GA, Kennedy RB. Immunogenicity of a peptide-based vaccine for measles: a pilot evaluation in a mouse model. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18776. [PMID: 39138335 PMCID: PMC11322560 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69825-2] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Although neutralizing antibody is an established correlate of protection for measles, T cell-mediated responses play at least two critical roles in immunity to measles: first, through provision of 'help' enabling robust humoral immune responses; and second, through clearance of measles virus-infected cells. Previously, we identified 13 measles-derived peptides that bound to human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules in Priess cells infected with measles virus. In this study, we evaluated the immunogenicity of these peptides in a transgenic mouse model. Our results demonstrated that these peptides induced Th1-biased immune responses at varying levels. Of the 13 peptides, the top four immunogenic peptides were further selected for a viral challenge study in mice. A vaccine based on a combination of these four peptides reduced morbidity and weight loss after viral challenge compared to placebo. Our results emphasize the potential of T cell-mediated, peptide-based vaccines against measles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy Quang Quach
- Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Tamar Ratishvili
- Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | | | | | - Gregory A Poland
- Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Richard B Kennedy
- Mayo Clinic Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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Martínez-Pena I, Puig B, Uskola A. One Health education for criticality on vaccination in teacher training. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1408965. [PMID: 39131576 PMCID: PMC11312376 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1408965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vaccines are the basis of health of our communities since they prevent severe infectious diseases. However vaccination rates continue to decrease due to the spread of misinformation about their side effects, which enhances vaccine hesitancy and puts at risk public health. Introducing vaccines from the One Health approach can help to develop an integral understanding of their role and to apply critical ignorance as part of criticality to avoid vaccine hesitancy and raise trust in science. This paper presents a design on vaccination for secondary-education teacher training developed toward this goal. Methods The design presented in this paper draws from previous studies on critical thinking, on vaccine rejection, and the One Health approach on other health issues in Secondary Education. The focus of this design is engaging secondary-education pre-service teachers in the practice of critical ignorance and criticality to assess diverse pieces of information on vaccination from the One Health approach. Results This study discusses the design principles and the activities of an original design that aims to provide Secondary Education teachers with some tools to introduce critical ignorance and criticality for addressing misinformation on vaccines by using the One Health approach. Discussion If secondary science teachers are going to successfully confront misinformation on vaccination in their science instruction, we need to develop and test designs and approaches that prepare them for this purpose. Critical ignorance plays a central role in managing misinformation; thus, such instruction should engage future teachers in critical evaluation of information on vaccination, as well as in the application of the One Health approach to take responsible actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Martínez-Pena
- Faculty of Education, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Santiago, Spain
| | - Blanca Puig
- Faculty of Education, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Santiago, Spain
| | - Araitz Uskola
- Department of Didactics of Mathematics and of Experimental and Social Sciences, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
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Donà M, Trapman P. Possible counter-intuitive impact of local vaccine mandates for vaccine-preventable infectious diseases. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2024; 21:6521-6538. [PMID: 39176406 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2024284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
We modeled the impact of local vaccine mandates on the spread of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases, which in the absence of vaccines will mainly affect children. Examples of such diseases are measles, rubella, mumps, and pertussis. To model the spread of the pathogen, we used a stochastic SIR (susceptible, infectious, recovered) model with two levels of mixing in a closed population, often referred to as the household model. In this model, individuals make local contacts within a specific small subgroup of the population (e.g., within a household or a school class), while they also make global contacts with random people in the population at a much lower rate than the rate of local contacts. We considered what would happen if schools were given freedom to impose vaccine mandates on all of their pupils, except for the pupils that were exempt from vaccination because of medical reasons. We investigated first how such a mandate affected the probability of an outbreak of a disease. Furthermore, we focused on the probability that a pupil that was medically exempt from vaccination, would get infected during an outbreak. We showed that if the population vaccine coverage was close to the herd-immunity level, then both probabilities may increase if local vaccine mandates were implemented. This was caused by unvaccinated pupils possibly being moved to schools without mandates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Donà
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Pieter Trapman
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Netherlands
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9
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Parums DV. A Review of the Resurgence of Measles, a Vaccine-Preventable Disease, as Current Concerns Contrast with Past Hopes for Measles Elimination. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e944436. [PMID: 38525549 PMCID: PMC10946219 DOI: 10.12659/msm.944436] [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: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
On 22 February 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that, following the recent resurgence of measles cases in Europe, more than half the world's countries could expect significant measles outbreaks this year. Measles is a highly infectious virus with a primary case reproduction number (R0) of 12-18. Measles infection can be severe, resulting in pneumonia, and also more rarely in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which occurs in 1 child out of every 1,000 and can be fatal. Until the 1990s, the hope of eliminating measles seemed possible following the successful development of effective vaccines, given individually or in the combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Vaccine hesitancy due to misinformation about possible vaccine side effects, reduced vaccine uptake during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and lack of awareness of the severe consequences of measles infection have contributed to low vaccine uptake, resulting in vulnerable communities. This article aims to review the recent resurgence of measles cases in the US, Europe, and the UK, to provide a reminder of the potential severity of measles, and to consider the causes of the failure to eliminate this vaccine-preventable viral infection.
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10
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Houle SKD, Andrew MK. RSV vaccination in older adults: Addressing vaccine hesitancy using the 3C model. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2024; 157:39-44. [PMID: 38125630 PMCID: PMC10729719 DOI: 10.1177/17151635231210879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The first vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) targeting older adults was approved for use in Canada in August 2023. As a frequent first point of contact for Canadians seeking advice on vaccination and the most common setting for the administration of influenza vaccines, community pharmacies will also play a role in RSV vaccination efforts. To address vaccine hesitancy confidently and effectively, pharmacists must be equipped with knowledge of the factors that affect a person's decision on whether to be vaccinated or not. The 3C Model of Vaccine Hesitancy summarizes these as complacency, confidence and convenience. This article introduces the model and describes the often-underrecognized relevance of RSV to older adults, including risk factors and burden of disease. It also reviews the history and status of vaccine development and approval and presents clinical trial data to equip pharmacists to discuss RSV vaccination with older adults who express vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melissa K. Andrew
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia
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11
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Buck E, Burt J, Karampatsas K, Hsia Y, Whyte G, Amirthalingam G, Skirrow H, Le Doare K. 'Unable to have a proper conversation over the phone about my concerns': a multimethods evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 on routine childhood vaccination services in London, UK. Public Health 2023; 225:229-236. [PMID: 37944278 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Investigating the completion rate of 12-month vaccinations and parental perspectives on vaccine services during COVID-19. STUDY-DESIGN Service evaluation including parental questionnaire. METHODS Uptake of 12-month vaccinations in three London general practices during three periods: pre-COVID (1/3/2018-28/2/2019, n = 826), during COVID (1/3/2019-28/2/2020, n = 775) and post-COVID first wave (1/8/2020-31/1/2021, n = 419). Questionnaire of parents whose children were registered at the practices (1/4/2019-1/22/2021, n = 1350). RESULTS Comparing pre-COVID and both COVID cohorts, the completion rates of 12-month vaccines were lower. Haemophilus influenzae type B/meningococcal group C (Hib/MenC) vaccination uptake was 5.6% lower (89.0% vs 83.4%, P=<0.001), meningococcal group B (MenB) booster uptake was 4.4% lower (87.3% vs 82.9%, P = 0.006), pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) booster uptake was 6% lower (88.0% vs 82.0%, P < 0.001) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine uptake was 5.2% lower (89.1% vs 83.9%, P = 0.003). Black/Black-British ethnicity children had increased odds of missing their 12-month vaccinations compared to White ethnicity children (adjusted odds ratio 0.43 [95% confidence interval 0.24-0.79, P = 0.005; 0.36 [0.20-0.65], P < 0.001; 0.48 [0.27-0.87], P = 0.01; 0.40 [0.22-0.73], P = 0.002; for Hib/MenC, MenB booster, PCV booster and MMR. Comparing pre-COVID and COVID periods, vaccinations coded as not booked increased for MMR (10%), MenB (7%) and PCV booster (8%). Parents reported changes to vaccination services during COVID-19, including difficulties booking and attending appointments and lack of vaccination reminders. CONCLUSION A sustained decrease in 12-month childhood vaccination uptake disproportionally affected Black/Black British ethnicity infants during the first wave of the pandemic. Vaccination reminders and availability of healthcare professionals to discuss parental vaccine queries are vital to maintaining uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Buck
- St George's Hospital Medical School, St. George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - J Burt
- Ashford and St Peter's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom
| | - K Karampatsas
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Y Hsia
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom; School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - G Whyte
- North Croydon Medical Centre, United Kingdom
| | - G Amirthalingam
- Immunisation and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Division, UK Health Security Agency, United Kingdom
| | - H Skirrow
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - K Le Doare
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom; MRC/UVRI @LHSTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda; Pathogen Immunity Group, UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down, United Kingdom
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12
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Masood S, Alkubaisi NA, Aslam M, Salman M, Baraka MA, Mustafa ZU, Mallhi TH, Khan YH, Meyer JC, Godman B. Knowledge of Human Monkeypox Infection among Final Year Medical, Pharmacy, and Nursing Students: A Multicenter, Cross-Sectional Analysis from Pakistan. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2777. [PMID: 37893851 PMCID: PMC10606159 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202777] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the monkeypox outbreak a public health emergency in June 2022. In Pakistan, positive cases of monkeypox were reported in April 2023. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are considered as a front-line force to combat such outbreaks. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 11 public sector educational institutions in Punjab, Pakistan, during May and June 2023 among final year medical, pharmacy, and nursing students concerning their knowledge of monkeypox. This included the signs/symptoms of monkeypox. Healthcare students were chosen as they are the HCWs of tomorrow. A total of 389 healthcare students participated in the study, with a mean age of 23.17 ± 1.72 years, and the majority were female. The mean knowledge score was 17.69 ± 4.55 (95% CI 17.24-18.14) out of a maximum total knowledge score of 26 (each correct answer was given a score of 1). The proportion of students with good, moderate, and poor knowledge was 21.6%, 43.2%, and 35.2%, respectively. Age (p = 0.017), gender (p < 0.001), and education (p < 0.001) had a significant impact on the knowledge score. In the multivariate linear regression model, education was the only significant factor linked to knowledge scores. Overall, the majority of future HCWs had moderate knowledge of monkeypox. Consequently, educational activities are needed to improve monkeypox-related knowledge among future HCWs. Furthermore, emerging infectious diseases should be routinely incorporated into HCW curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahabia Masood
- Department of Medicine, University Medical and Dental College Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Noorah A Alkubaisi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Aslam
- Basic Health Unit (BHU), 554GB, Tehsil Tandlianwala, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed A Baraka
- Department of Pharmacy, Fatima College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 3798, United Arab Emirates
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt
| | - Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital, Pakpattan 57400, Pakistan
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
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13
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Mudenda S, Meyer JC, Fadare JO, Ogunleye OO, Saleem Z, Matafwali SK, Daka V, Chabalenge B, Chama J, Mukosha M, Skosana P, Witika BA, Kalungia AC, Hamachila A, Mufwambi W, Godman B. COVID-19 vaccine uptake and associated factors among adolescents and youths: Findings and implications for future vaccination programmes. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002385. [PMID: 37729153 PMCID: PMC10511127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and youths are a key part of the population that needs to be protected against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This is because they are more likely to spread the virus to vulnerable individuals. In view of these concerns, this study investigated the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and associated factors among adolescents and youths attending secondary schools in Zambia. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1500 school-going adolescents in Lusaka from September 2022 to November 2022. Overall, 1409 participants took part giving a response rate of 94%. Only 29.2% (n = 411) of the participants were vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time of the study. Compared to their unvaccinated counterparts, vaccinated adolescents and youths scored higher for knowledge (66.2% vs 57.8%) and attitudes (76.7% vs 39.4%) regarding COVID-19 vaccines. Healthcare workers, family/friends and social media were key sources of information regarding the vaccine. Factors associated with increased vaccine uptake were positive attitudes (AOR = 33.62, 95% CI: 19.92-56.73), indicating it was stressful to follow COVID-19 preventive measures (AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.09-1.99), participants in Grade 12 (AOR = 3.39, 95% CI: 1.94-5.91), Grade 11 (AOR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.94-5.91), Grade 10 (AOR = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.98-6.11) and Grade 9 (AOR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.74-5.32) compared to Grade 8. This study found a relatively low uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among adolescents and youths in Zambia. There is a need to provide adequate strategies to address knowledge and attitude gaps regarding COVID-19 vaccines to improve uptake and reduce future morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Joseph O. Fadare
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Olayinka O. Ogunleye
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Zikria Saleem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Scott K. Matafwali
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victor Daka
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola, Zambia
| | - Billy Chabalenge
- Department of Medicines Control, Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jacob Chama
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Moses Mukosha
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- HIV and Women’s Health Research Group, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Phumzile Skosana
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Bwalya A. Witika
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Aubrey C. Kalungia
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Audrey Hamachila
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Webrod Mufwambi
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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14
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Naranjo D, Kimball E, Nelson J, Samore M, Alder SC, Stroupe K, Evans CT, Weaver FM, Ray C, Kale I, Galyean PO, Zickmund S. Differences in perceptions and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination between vaccine hesitant and non-hesitant persons. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290540. [PMID: 37682878 PMCID: PMC10490972 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccination becomes more critical as new variants continue to evolve and the United States (US) attempts to move from pandemic response to management and control. COVID-19 stands out in the unique way it has polarized patients and generated sustained vaccine hesitancy over time. We sought to understand differences in perceptions and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination between vaccine hesitant and non-hesitant patients, with the goal of informing communication and implementation strategies to increase uptake of COVID-19 vaccines in Veteran and non-Veteran communities. This qualitative study used interview data from focus groups conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the University of Utah; all focus groups were conducted using the same script March-July 2021. Groups included forty-six United States Veterans receiving care at 28 VA facilities across the country and 166 non-Veterans across Utah for a total of 36 one-hour focus groups. We identified perceptions and attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination through qualitative analysis of focus group participant remarks, grouping connections with identified themes within domains developed based on the questions asked in the focus group guide. Responses suggest participant attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine were shaped primarily by vaccine attitude changes over time, impacted by perceived vaccine benefits, risks, differing sources of vaccine information and political ideology. Veterans appeared more polarized, being either largely non-hesitant, or hesitant, whereas non-Veterans had a wider range of hesitancy, with more participants identifying minor doubts and concerns about receiving the vaccine, or simply being altogether unsure about receiving it. Development of COVID-19 vaccine communication strategies in Veteran and non-Veteran communities should anticipate incongruous sources of information and explicitly target community differences in perceptions of risks and benefits associated with the vaccine to generate candid discussions and repair individuals' trust. We believe this could accelerate vaccine acceptance over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Naranjo
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Elisabeth Kimball
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Jeanette Nelson
- Center for Business, Health, and Prosperity, David Eccles School of Business, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Matthew Samore
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Stephen C. Alder
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Center for Business, Health, and Prosperity, David Eccles School of Business, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Kevin Stroupe
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH) Edward Hines Health Care System, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Charlesnika T. Evans
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH) Edward Hines Health Care System, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Preventive Medicine (Epidemiology), Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Frances M. Weaver
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH) Edward Hines Health Care System, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Cara Ray
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH) Edward Hines Health Care System, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Ibuola Kale
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH) Edward Hines Health Care System, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Patrick O. Galyean
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Susan Zickmund
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center (IDEAS), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
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15
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Harmain ZU, Alkubaisi NA, Hasnain M, Salman M, Baraka MA, Mustafa ZU, Khan YH, Mallhi TH, Meyer JC, Godman B. Awareness and Practices towards Vaccinating Their Children against COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study among Pakistani Parents. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2378. [PMID: 37685412 PMCID: PMC10487428 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11172378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
There are typically lower COVID-19 vaccination rates among developing versus higher-income countries, which is exacerbated by greater vaccine hesitancy. However, despite the increasing evidence of safety, parents are still reluctant to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. This is a concern in countries experiencing successive waves, such as Pakistan. Consequently, the objective of this study was to gain better understanding and practice regarding parents vaccinating their children against COVID-19 in Pakistan. A cross-sectional study was conducted to measure parents' attitudes towards vaccinating their children. In total, 451 parents participated in the study, giving a response rate of 70.4%; 67.4% were female, 43.2% belonged to the 40-49 years age group, and 47.7% had three children, with 73% of parents fully immunized against COVID-19. We found that 84.7% of parents did not consider COVID-19 to be a very serious issue, and 53.9% considered that their children were not at high risk of COVID-19. Overall, only a quarter of the study participants had currently vaccinated their children and 11.8% were willing to vaccinate their children in the near future. Parents who had a better knowledge of COVID-19, secondary or higher education, children who had chronic illness, and those parents whose children had been infected with COVID-19 were more likely to have their children vaccinated. The most common reasons for vaccine hesitancy were "my child is not at high risk of COVID-19" (61%) and "I am afraid to put/inject a foreign object inside my child's body" (52.2%). Overall, vaccine acceptance was low among the parents of the children. Those parents with higher education, chronic illnesses, greater knowledge of COVID-19 and its vaccines, and those whose children had been infected with COVID-19 were significantly (p < 0.001) inclined towards vaccinating their children. Effective campaigns as well as awareness sessions are needed to address misinformation and reduce vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zain Ul Harmain
- Department of Medicines, Tehsil Head Quarter (THQ) Hospital, Fortabbas 62020, Pakistan;
| | - Noorah A. Alkubaisi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Muhammad Hasnain
- Department of Medicine, Tehsil Head Quarter (THQ) Hospital, Kallurkot, Bhakkar 30000, Pakistan;
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan;
| | - Mohamed A. Baraka
- Department of Pharmacy, Fatima College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi 64141, United Arab Emirates
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt
| | - Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital, Pakpattan 57400, Pakistan
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (T.H.M.)
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (T.H.M.)
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (J.C.M.); or (B.G.)
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (J.C.M.); or (B.G.)
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
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Mudenda S, Daka V, Matafwali SK, Skosana P, Chabalenge B, Mukosha M, Fadare JO, Mfune RL, Witika BA, Alumeta MG, Mufwambi W, Godman B, Meyer JC, Bwalya AG. COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Hesitancy among Healthcare Workers in Lusaka, Zambia; Findings and Implications for the Future. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1350. [PMID: 37631918 PMCID: PMC10459437 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The uptake of COVID-19 vaccines is critical to address the severe consequences of the disease. Previous studies have suggested that many healthcare workers (HCWs) are hesitant to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, further enhancing hesitancy rates within countries. COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy levels are currently unknown among HCWs in Zambia, which is a concern given the burden of infectious diseases in the country. Consequently, this study assessed COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among HCWs in Lusaka, Zambia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 240 HCWs between August and September 2022, using a semi-structured questionnaire. Multivariable analysis was used to determine the key factors associated with vaccine hesitancy among HCWs. Of the 240 HCWs who participated, 54.2% were females. A total of 72.1% of the HCWs would accept being vaccinated, while 27.9% were hesitant. Moreover, 93.3% of HCWs had positive attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines, with medical doctors having the highest mean attitude score (82%). Encouragingly, HCWs with positive attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines had reduced odds of being hesitant (AOR = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01-0.11, p < 0.001). Overall, acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among HCWs in Lusaka, Zambia, was high, especially by those with positive attitudes. However, the current hesitancy among some HCWs is a concern. Consequently, there is a need to address this and encourage HCWs to fully promote vaccination programs going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia; (M.M.); (M.G.A.); (W.M.); (A.G.B.)
| | - Victor Daka
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola 21692, Zambia; (V.D.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Scott K. Matafwali
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Phumzile Skosana
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0208, South Africa;
| | - Billy Chabalenge
- Department of Medicines Control, Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, Lusaka 31890, Zambia;
| | - Moses Mukosha
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia; (M.M.); (M.G.A.); (W.M.); (A.G.B.)
| | - Joseph O. Fadare
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Ekiti State University College of Medicine, Ado-Ekiti 362103, Nigeria;
- Department of Medicine, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti 362103, Nigeria
| | - Ruth L. Mfune
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola 21692, Zambia; (V.D.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Bwalya A. Witika
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0208, South Africa;
| | - Mirriam G. Alumeta
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia; (M.M.); (M.G.A.); (W.M.); (A.G.B.)
| | - Webrod Mufwambi
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia; (M.M.); (M.G.A.); (W.M.); (A.G.B.)
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0208, South Africa;
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0208, South Africa;
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Garankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
| | - Angela G. Bwalya
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia; (M.M.); (M.G.A.); (W.M.); (A.G.B.)
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Salleh H, Avoi R, Abdul Karim H, Osman S, Dhanaraj P, Ab Rahman MA‘I. A Behavioural-Theory-Based Qualitative Study of the Beliefs and Perceptions of Marginalised Populations towards Community Volunteering to Increase Measles Immunisation Coverage in Sabah, Malaysia. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1056. [PMID: 37376445 PMCID: PMC10301022 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11061056] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of the measles-containing vaccine (MCV) has rendered measles a largely preventable disease. In the state of Sabah in Malaysia, a complete course of measles immunisation for infants involves vaccinations at the ages of six, nine, and twelve months. However, it is difficult for marginalised populations to receive a complete course of measles immunisation. This present study used behavioural theory (BT) to examine the beliefs and perceptions of a marginalised population towards community volunteering as a method of increasing the immunisation coverage of measles. Marginalised populations living in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, more specifically, Malaysian citizens living in urban slums and squatter areas, as well as legal and illegal migrants, were extensively interviewed in person for this qualitative study. The 40 respondents were either the parents or primary caregivers of at least one child under the age of five. The components of the Health Belief Model were then used to examine the collected data. The respondents had poor awareness of the measles disease and perceived the disease as not severe, with some even refusing immunisation. The perceived barriers to receiving vaccinations included a nomadic lifestyle; issues with finances, citizenship status, language, and weather; failing to remember immunisation schedules; a fear of health care personnel; having too many children; and a lack of female autonomy in vaccine decision-making. However, the respondents were receptive towards community-based programmes and many welcomed a recall or reminder system, especially when the volunteers were family members or neighbours who spoke the same language and knew their village well. A few, however, found it awkward to have volunteers assisting them. Evidence-based decision making may increase measles immunisation coverage in marginalised populations. The components of the Health Belief Model validated that the respondents lacked awareness of the measles disease and viewed it and its effects as not severe. Therefore, future volunteer programmes should prioritise increasing the receptivity and self-control of marginalised populations to overcome barriers that hinder community involvement. A community-based volunteer programme is highly recommended to increase measles immunisation coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazeqa Salleh
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia;
| | - Richard Avoi
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia;
| | - Haryati Abdul Karim
- Communications Programme, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia;
| | - Suhaila Osman
- Sabah State Health Department, Ministry of Health, Kota Kinabalu 88590, Sabah, Malaysia;
| | - Prabakaran Dhanaraj
- Kota Kinabalu District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Kota Kinabalu 88300, Sabah, Malaysia;
| | - Mohd Ali ‘Imran Ab Rahman
- Social Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Selangor, Malaysia;
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