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Ahmed M, Manchana V. Vaccination status, awareness, and its correlates among healthcare workers in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR): a mixed-method study. GMS HYGIENE AND INFECTION CONTROL 2024; 19:Doc39. [PMID: 39224500 PMCID: PMC11367558 DOI: 10.3205/dgkh000494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Healthcare workers (HCWs) are on the frontline of infections. To safeguard HCWs from occupational exposure to infections and to curb nosocomial infection a set of vaccines has been recommended for them by the WHO. Hence, we aimed to assess the vaccination status, awareness, and its correlates amongst HCWs in the Delhi-NCR. Method The study used a cross-sectional mixed-method approach from January to April 2023. For the quantitative arm, a structured questionnaire was circulated to the participants in conveniently-selected private and government tertiary care hospitals of the Delhi-NCR, both through e-survey using Google form, and in person, data were collected on socio-demographics, vaccination status, and awareness. SPSS version 25 was used for the analysis. For the qualitative arm, in-depth interviews were conducted and data were analyzed manually. Results Out of 387 participants (62.8% males, 37.2% females), the awareness about the vaccines recommended for HCWs was 64.1%. However, only 15.3% of HCWs were completely aware of all the recommended vaccines. SARS CoV-2, Polio, Hepatitis B, and BCG had the highest vaccination coverage, 97.4%, 87.9%, 83.7%, and 50.9%, respectively. It was found that gender, education, type (private or governmental) of tertiary care hospital, and profession had a significance (p<0.05) on the vaccination status score and awareness of all WHO-recommended vaccines (AOR=7.6, 95% CI, 3.24-18.0). The qualitative arm further augmented the findings. Conclusion The study reveals insufficient awareness and vaccination status regarding recommended vaccines. Prioritizing the preparation of unified standard guidelines for Indian HCWs and involving concerned stakeholders is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Ahmed
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, India
| | - Varalakshmi Manchana
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, India
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Riccò M, Corrado S, Marchesi F, Bottazzoli M. Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Vaccination among Tourists in a High-Prevalence Area (Italy, 2023): A Cross-Sectional Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:491. [PMID: 37999610 PMCID: PMC10674593 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8110491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) represents a potential health threat for tourists in high-risk areas, including the Dolomite Mountains in northeastern Italy. The present questionnaire-based survey was, therefore, designed in order to assess knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices (KAP) in a convenience sample of Italian tourists visiting the Dolomite Mountains, who were recruited through online discussion groups. A total of 942 participants (39.2% males, with 60.2% aged under 50) filled in the anonymous survey from 28 March 2023 to 20 June 2023. Overall, 24.1% of participants were vaccinated against TBE; 13.8% claimed to have previously had tick bites, but no cases of TBE were reported. The general understanding of TBE was relatively low; while 79.9% of participants acknowledged TBE as a potentially severe disease, its occurrence was acknowledged as high/rather high or very high in the Dolomites area by only 51.6% of respondents. Factors associated with the TBE vaccine were assessed by the calculation of adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals through a logistic regression analysis model. Living in areas considered at high risk for TBE (aOR 3.010, 95%CI 2.062-4.394), better knowledge on tick-borne disorders (aOR 1.515, 95%CI 1.071-2.142), high risk perception regarding tick-borne infections (aOR 2.566, 95%CI 1.806-3.646), a favorable attitude toward vaccinations (aOR 3.824, 95%CI 1.774-8.224), and a tick bite(s) in a previous season (aOR 5.479, 95%CI 3.582-8.382) were characterized as being positively associated with TBE vaccination uptake. Conversely, being <50 years old (aOR 0.646, 95%CI, 0.458-0.913) and with a higher risk perception regarding the TBE vaccine (aOR 0.541, 95%CI 0.379-0.772) were identified as the main barriers to vaccination. In summary, tourists to the high-risk area of the Dolomites largely underestimate the potential occurrence of TBE. Even though the uptake of the TBE vaccine in this research was in line with European data, public health communication on TBE is required in order to improve acceptance of this effective preventive option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- Occupational Health and Safety Service on the Workplace/Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza Ambienti di Lavoro (SPSAL), Department of Public Health, AUSL–IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Silvia Corrado
- ASST Rhodense, Dipartimento della donna e Area Materno-Infantile, UOC Pediatria, 20024 Garbagnate Milanese, Italy;
| | - Federico Marchesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Marco Bottazzoli
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, APSS Trento, 31223 Trento, Italy;
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Minardi V, Gallo R, Possenti V, Contoli B, Di Fonzo D, D'Andrea E, Masocco M. Influenza Vaccination Uptake and Prognostic Factors among Health Professionals in Italy: Results from the Nationwide Surveillance PASSI 2015-2018. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1223. [PMID: 37515039 PMCID: PMC10386716 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Influenza causes a significant health and socio-economic burden every year, and health personnel (HP) are at higher risk of exposure to respiratory pathogens than the general population. (2) The study's purpose was to describe and compare influenza vaccine uptake and its prognostic factors among Medical Doctors (MDs) and Non-Medical Health Personnel (NMHP) vs. Non-HP (NHP). We analyzed 2014-2018 data (n = 105,608) from the Italian Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System PASSI that, since 2008, has been collecting health-related information continuously in sampled adults. (3) MDs and NMHP represented, respectively, 1.1% and 4.6% of the sample. Among HP, 22.8% (CI 19.8-26.1%) of MDs and 8.5% (CI 7.5-9.5%) of NMHP reported to have been vaccinated vs. 6.3% (CI 6.1-6.5%) in NHP. This difference is confirmed in the three categories (MDs, NMHP, NHP), even more across age groups: in 18-34 yy, respectively, 9.9%, 4.4%, 3.4% vs. 28.4%, 13.9%, 10.6% in 50-64 yy. PASSI surveillance shows an increasing influenza vaccination uptake over time, especially among MDs (22.2% in 2014 vs. 30.5% in 2018). (4) Despite such an increase, especially among younger HP, influenza vaccination uptake is low. Even more under pandemic scenarios, these figures represent key information to address effective strategies for disease prevention and health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Minardi
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosaria Gallo
- Primary Healthcare Unit, Health District 9, Local Health Unit Roma 2, 00159 Rome, Italy
- PhD Course Advances in Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, Legal Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Possenti
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Contoli
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Elvira D'Andrea
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Maria Masocco
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Gallant AJ, Harding A, Johnson C, Steenbeek A, Curran JA. Identifying H1N1 and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy or refusal among health care providers: a scoping review. JBI Evid Synth 2023; 21:913-951. [PMID: 36917102 PMCID: PMC10173945 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-22-00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this review was to describe and map the evidence on COVID-19 and H1N1 vaccine hesitancy or refusal by physicians, nurses, and pharmacists in North America, the United Kingdom and the European Union, and Australia. INTRODUCTION Since 2009, we have experienced two pandemics: H1N1 "swine flu" and COVID-19. While severity and transmissibility of these viruses varied, vaccination has been a critical component of bringing both pandemics under control. However, uptake of these vaccines has been affected by vaccine hesitancy and refusal. The vaccination behaviors of health care providers, including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, are of particular interest as they have been priority populations to receive both H1N1 and COVID-19 vaccinations. Their vaccination views could affect the vaccination decisions of their patients. INCLUSION CRITERIA Studies were eligible for inclusion if they identified reasons for COVID-19 or H1N1 vaccine hesitancy or refusal among physicians, nurses, or pharmacists from the included countries. Published and unpublished literature were eligible for inclusion. Previous reviews were excluded; however, the reference lists of relevant reviews were searched to identify additional studies for inclusion. METHODS A search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Academic Search Premier databases was conducted April 28, 2021, to identify English-language literature published from 2009 to 2021. Gray literature and citation screening were also conducted to identify additional relevant literature. Titles, abstracts, and eligible full-text articles were reviewed in duplicate by 2 trained reviewers. Data were extracted in duplicate using a structured extraction tool developed for the review. Conflicts were resolved through discussion or with a third team member. Data were synthesized using narrative and tabular summaries. RESULTS In total, 83 articles were included in the review. Studies were conducted primarily across the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. The majority of articles (n=70) used cross-sectional designs to examine knowledge, attitudes, and uptake of H1N1 (n=61) or COVID-19 (n=22) vaccines. Physicians, medical students, nurses, and nursing students were common participants in the studies; however, only 8 studies included pharmacists in their sample. Across health care settings, most studies were conducted in urban, academic teaching hospitals, with 1 study conducted in a rural hospital setting. Concerns about vaccine safety, vaccine side effects, and perceived low risk of contracting H1N1 or COVID-19 were the most common reasons for vaccine hesitancy or refusal across both vaccines. CONCLUSIONS With increased interest and attention on vaccines in recent years, intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, more research that examines vaccine hesitancy or refusal across different health care settings and health care providers is warranted. Future work should aim to utilize more qualitative and mixed methods research designs to capture the personal perspectives of vaccine hesitancy and refusal, and consider collecting data beyond the common urban and academic health care settings identified in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Janet A. Curran
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Ferrari C, Somma G, Ippoliti L, Magrini A, Di Giampaolo L, Coppeta L. Global Policy to Reduce the Incidence of Infection Spreading in Non-Vaccinated Healthcare Workers: A Literature Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:2058. [PMID: 36560468 PMCID: PMC9783052 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10122058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection because of their occupational exposure. Moreover, they can be a vehicle for the virus transmission among patients. The vaccination of healthcare personnel against COVID-19 is crucial in fighting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection, together with strict sanitary procedures that aim to limit the risk of contagion. Unfortunately, even if COVID-19 vaccination has been proved one of the most effective tools for protecting against COVID-19, many healthcare professionals are not yet vaccinated. The aim of the current review is to contribute to identifying an effective strategy for COVID-19 prevention especially among non-vaccinated HCWs. In this review, we collected the most recent and relevant findings from literature on the protection of unvaccinated HCWs, identifying three types of measures as principal actions to protect those operators: addressing vaccine hesitancy, improving non-pharmaceutical interventions and promoting actions at personal level (respiratory hygiene, hand hygiene and use of PPE). All these interventions are very effective in preventing contagion, if well respected and conducted; nevertheless, it is essential to promote vaccination, as it is the most effective measure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Ferrari
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Somma
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ippoliti
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Magrini
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Di Giampaolo
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Chieti “G. D’Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Luca Coppeta
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Riccò M, Zaniboni A, Satta E, Ranzieri S, Cerviere MP, Marchesi F, Peruzzi S. West Nile Virus Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study on Italian Medical Professionals during Summer Season 2022. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7120404. [PMID: 36548659 PMCID: PMC9786547 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7120404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) has progressively endemized in large areas of continental Europe, and particularly in Northern Italy, in the Po River Valley. During summer season 2022, Italy experienced an unprecedented surge in incidence cases of WNV infections, including its main complications (West Nile fever (WNF) and West Nile neuroinvasive disease (WNND)). As knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of medical professionals may be instrumental in guaranteeing a prompt diagnosis and an accurate management of incident cases, we performed a cross-sectional study specifically on a sample of Italian medical professionals (1 August 2022-10 September 2022; around 8800 potential recipients). From a total of 332 questionnaires (response rate of 3.8%), 254 participating medical professionals were eventually included in the analyses. Knowledge status of participants was unsatisfying, as most of them exhibited knowledge gaps on the actual epidemiology of WNV, with similar uncertainties on the clinical features of WNF and WNND. Moreover, most of participants substantially overlooked WNV as a human pathogen when compared to SARS-CoV-2, TB, and even HIV. Interestingly, only 65.4% of respondents were either favorable or highly favorable towards a hypothetical WNV vaccine. Overall, acknowledging a higher risk perception on WNV was associated with individual factors such as reporting a seniority ≥ 10 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.39, 95% Confidence interval [95%CI] 1.34 to 4.28), reporting a better knowledge score (aOR 2.92, 95%CI 1.60 to 5.30), having previously managed cases of WNV infections (aOR 3.65, 95%CI 1.14 to 14.20), being favorable towards a hypothetic vaccine (aOR 2.16, 95%CI 1.15 to 4.04), and perceiving WNV infections as potentially affecting daily activities (aOR 2.57, 95%CI 1.22 to 5.42). In summary, substantial knowledge gaps and the erratic risk perception collectively enlighten the importance and the urgency for appropriate information campaigns among medical professionals, and particularly among frontline personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- Occupational Health and Safety Service on the Workplace/Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza Ambienti di Lavoro (SPSAL), Department of Public Health, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-339-2994343 or +39-522-837587
| | | | - Elia Satta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Silvia Ranzieri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | | | - Federico Marchesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Simona Peruzzi
- Laboratorio Analisi Chimico Cliniche e Microbiologiche, Ospedale Civile di Guastalla, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42016 Guastalla, Italy
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Vaccinating Front-Line Healthcare Workers: Results of a Pre-Pandemic Cross-Sectional Study from North-Eastern Italy on First Responders. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091492. [PMID: 36146570 PMCID: PMC9503083 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
First responders are front-line healthcare workers who are potentially exposed to different infectious agents. Characterizing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards immunization, therefore, has the potential to significantly improve occupational health and safety. A cross-sectional study was performed in October 2018 using a sample of 161 first responders from the Parma Province (mean age 45.1 ± 14.1 years; seniority 10.8 ± 8.6 years). The participants were questioned on three recommended vaccinations (i.e., the seasonal influenza, measles, and pertussis vaccines) and on meningococcal vaccines (not officially recommended for first responders). The participant’s knowledge status and risk perception were assessed as percentage values through a specifically designed questionnaire. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for factors associated with vaccination status were calculated by means of a binary logistic regression analysis. The internal consistency result, calculated using a general knowledge test, was good (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.894), but the corresponding score was unsatisfying (46.5% ± 32.4), evidencing uncertainties surrounding the recommendations for measles and meningococcal vaccines (39.1% and 34.2% incorrect answers, respectively). While the large majority of respondents were favorable towards the meningococcal (89.4%), measles (87.5%), and pertussis vaccines (83.0%), 55.3% exhibited a favorable attitude toward the seasonal influenza vaccine, the uptake of which in 2018, was reported by 28.0% of respondents, compared to the self-reported lifetime status for meningitis (26.1%), measles (42.2%), and pertussis (34.8%). Not coincidentally, all assessed infections were associated with a low-risk perception score, particularly influenza (33.9% ± 18.4). Interestingly enough, neither knowledge status nor risk perception were associated with vaccination rates. More precisely, the main predictor for being vaccinated against seasonal influenza in 2018 was a seniority of ≥10 years (aOR 3.26, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.35–7.91), while both pertussis and measles were positively associated with higher educational achievement (aOR 3.27, 95%CI 1.29–8.30; and aOR 2.69, 95%CI 1.09–6.65, respectively). The reasons for vaccination gaps among the sampled first responders, apparently, did not find their roots in inappropriate knowledge status and risk perception alone. However, the very low rates of sampled immunization lead us to recommend stronger and more appropriate information campaigns.
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Sallam M, Ghazy RM, Al-Salahat K, Al-Mahzoum K, AlHadidi NM, Eid H, Kareem N, Al-Ajlouni E, Batarseh R, Ababneh NA, Sallam M, Alsanafi M, Umakanthan S, Al-Tammemi AB, Bakri FG, Harapan H, Mahafzah A, Al Awaidy ST. The Role of Psychological Factors and Vaccine Conspiracy Beliefs in Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy and Uptake among Jordanian Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1355. [PMID: 36016243 PMCID: PMC9413675 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccination to prevent influenza virus infection and to lessen its severity is recommended among healthcare workers (HCWs). Health professionals have a higher risk of exposure to viruses and could transmit the influenza virus to vulnerable patients who are prone to severe disease and mortality. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the levels of influenza vaccine acceptance and uptake as well as its determinants, among Jordanian HCWs over the last influenza season of 2021/2022. This study was based on a self-administered electronic survey that was distributed in March 2022. Psychological determinants of influenza vaccine acceptance and vaccine conspiracy beliefs were assessed using the previously validated 5C scale questionnaire (confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation and collective responsibility) and the vaccine conspiracy beliefs scale. The study sample comprised a total of 1218 HCWs: nurses (n = 412, 33.8%), physicians (n = 367, 30.1%), medical technicians (n = 182, 14.9%), pharmacists (n = 161, 13.2%) and dentists (n = 87, 7.1%), among others. About two-thirds of the study sample expressed willingness to receive influenza vaccination if provided free of charge (n = 807, 66.3%), whereas less than one-third were willing to pay for the vaccine (n = 388, 31.9%). The self-reported uptake of the influenza vaccine in the last influenza season was 62.8%. The following factors were significantly associated with higher acceptance of influenza vaccination if provided freely, as opposed to vaccine hesitancy/rejection: male sex; physicians and dentists among HCW categories; higher confidence and collective responsibility; and lower complacency, constraints and calculation. Higher influenza vaccine uptake was significantly correlated with nurses and physicians among HCW categories, older age, a higher monthly income, higher confidence and collective responsibility, lower complacency and constraints and lower embrace of general vaccine conspiracy beliefs. The results of the current study can provide helpful clues to improve influenza vaccine coverage among HCWs in Jordan. Consequently, this can help to protect vulnerable patient groups and reserve valuable resources in healthcare settings. Psychological determinants appeared to be the most significant factors for vaccine acceptance and uptake, whereas the embrace of general vaccine conspiracy beliefs was associated with lower rates of influenza vaccine uptake, which should be considered in educational and interventional measures aiming to promote influenza vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Ramy Mohamed Ghazy
- Tropical Health Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Khaled Al-Salahat
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Kholoud Al-Mahzoum
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Nadin Mohammad AlHadidi
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Huda Eid
- School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Nariman Kareem
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Eyad Al-Ajlouni
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Rawan Batarseh
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Nidaa A. Ababneh
- Cell Therapy Center (CTC), The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Mohammed Sallam
- Department of Pharmacy, Mediclinic Welcare Hospital, Mediclinic Middle East, Dubai P.O. Box 31500, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mariam Alsanafi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Kuwait City 25210, Kuwait
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Health Sciences, Safat 13092, Kuwait
| | - Srikanth Umakanthan
- Department of Para-Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine BB11000, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Ala’a B. Al-Tammemi
- Migration Health Division, International Organization for Migration (IOM), The UN Migration Agency, Amman 11953, Jordan
| | - Faris G. Bakri
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Harapan Harapan
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Azmi Mahafzah
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Salah T. Al Awaidy
- Office of Health Affairs, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 393, Muscat 100, Oman
- Middle East, Eurasia and Africa Influenza Stakeholders Network (ME’NA-ISN), Cape Town 7766, South Africa
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Vaccine hesitancy and health care providers: Using the preferred cognitive styles and decision- making model and empathy tool to make progress. Vaccine X 2022; 11:100174. [PMID: 35782719 PMCID: PMC9241108 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2022.100174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Low vaccination rates among health care providers (HCPs) pose a risk to themselves, their colleagues, their patients, and the general public. This paper seeks to frame the issues surrounding health care provider vaccine hesitancy and vaccination rates, as well as explore factors influencing respective decision-making, including health care occupation and demographic characteristics. This paper will then propose the use of the Preferred Cognitive Style and Decision-Making (PCSDM) Model and the Empathy Tool to increase health care provider vaccination rates, and will end by discussing several recommendations. It is important while discussing HCP vaccination rates to not view them as a monolithic group or apply “one-size-fits-all” approaches, and thus it is essential to present information and engage in conversations in ways that align with how the HCP takes in and processes information and decisions. Furthermore, it is vital to increase health literacy across the spectrum of HCP programs and professions. To this end, it is important to teach and incorporate the PCSDM Model and Empathy Tool, along with information about how individuals think and make decisions, into vaccine education programs and training sessions.
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Ambrosch A, Luber D, Klawonn F, Kabesch M. A strict mask policy for hospital staff effectively prevents from nosocomial influenza infections and mortality: monocentric data from five consecutive influenza seasons. J Hosp Infect 2021; 121:82-90. [PMID: 34929232 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2021.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza infections acquired in hospital show increased mortality, especially in elderly patients with risk factors. Nevertheless, vaccination rates are low among both high-risk patients and healthcare workers (HCW). To more effectively prevent influenza infections in the hospital during the influenza season, we introduced a strict mouth-nose protection (MNP) requirement for all staff throughout the shift on the affected wards as an intervention and studied its effect on nosocomial infection rates. METHODOLOGY The present data were obtained in a retrospective, monocentric analysis over a period of four consecutive influenza seasons from 2015 - 2019. MNP for all staff during the whole shift as an intervention was introduced at 2017 and for the following seasons if at least three flu patients were in the ward at the same time. Data from hospitalised influenza patients before and after intervention were compared with regard to nosocomial incidences and mortality. RESULTS In the years with strict mandatory MNP (2017 - 2019), the nosocomial influenza incidence fell nearly 50 % (OR 0.40, 95%CI 0.28 - 0.56, p < 0.001) accompanied by a significant reduction in nosocomial mortality by 85% (OR 0.15, 95%CI 0.02 - 0.70, p = 0.007). The infectious pressure indicated by influenza incidences and patient days at risk were comparable before and after intervention, as was the low rate of vaccine uptake by nurses. CONCLUSION From our data, we conclude that mandatory MNP for HCW effectively protect patients from nosocomial influenza infections and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Ambrosch
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Hospital of the Merciful Brothers Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Doris Luber
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Hospital of the Merciful Brothers Regensburg, Germany
| | - Frank Klawonn
- Biostatistics Research Group, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany; Department of Computer Science, Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, Wolfenbüttel, Germany
| | - Michael Kabesch
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Children and Youth Medicine of the University of Regensburg (KUNO) at the Clinic St. Hedwig, Merciful Brothers Regensburg, Germany; Science Development Campus Regensburg (WECARE) at the St. Hedwig Clinic of the Merciful Brothers, Regensburg
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11
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Hall CM, Northam H, Webster A, Strickland K. Determinants of seasonal influenza vaccination hesitancy among healthcare personnel: An integrative review. J Clin Nurs 2021; 31:2112-2124. [PMID: 34716635 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16103] [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] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To explore the determinants of and behaviour change models for seasonal influenza vaccination compliance among healthcare personnel. BACKGROUND COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among healthcare personnel may be better understood by exploring determinants of seasonal influenza vaccine hesitancy. DESIGN Integrative literature review. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Six thousand and forty-eight articles were screened. Seventy-eight met inclusion criteria. Due to the heterogeneity of included articles, a narrative synthesis was conducted utilising a conceptual matrix to identify thematic categories. RESULTS Six thematic categories were identified as influencing HCP SIV compliance: 'perceived vulnerability', 'trust', 'past behaviour', 'professional duty', 'access and convenience' and 'knowledge and experience'. The Health Belief Model (HBM) was the most commonly utilised health behaviour change model within the seasonal influenza vaccination context. Few studies have examined seasonal influenza vaccine acceptance and uptake within the Australian HCP context, particularly involving community care and aged care. CONCLUSIONS Factors that appear to relate to influenza vaccination compliance among HCP can be grouped according to several thematic categories, and they also appear influential in COVID-19 vaccine uptake. In particular, an emerging focus on 'trust' or the more emotive considerations of decision-making around health-protective behaviours requires further exploration in the context of a pandemic. Efforts to influence these domains to increase compliance, however, are likely to be impeded by a lack of a well-developed and tested behaviour change model. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Healthcare personnel (HCP) face high levels of occupational exposure to seasonal influenza every year. An emerging focus on 'trust' and the more emotive considerations of decision-making around health-protective behaviours requires further exploration in the context of a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Hall
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Midwifery & Public Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Holly Northam
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Midwifery & Public Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Adrian Webster
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Midwifery & Public Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Health Systems Group, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Karen Strickland
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Midwifery & Public Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, AUT, Auckland, New Zealand.,Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland
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12
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Voglino G, Barbara A, Dallagiacoma G, Santangelo OE, Provenzano S, Gianfredi V. Do Degree Programs Affect Health Profession Students' Attitudes and Opinions Toward Vaccinations? An Italian Multicenter Study. Saf Health Work 2021; 13:59-65. [PMID: 35936207 PMCID: PMC9346936 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare workers' attitudes toward vaccination have been widely described in the literature, but a restricted amount of studies assessed healthcare students' knowledge, attitudes, and opinions on this issue. This study aimed to estimate the influence of a degree course on knowledge and immunization behavior among healthcare students and to compare medical students with students from other health profession degree programs to identify possible differences. Methods A multicenter, cross-sectional study was performed in 2018 in 14 Italian Universities (3,131 students were interviewed). A validated questionnaire was used to assess knowledge, attitudes, and opinions toward vaccinations, with a specific focus on influenza vaccine and attitudes toward mandatory vaccination policies. Statistical software STATA® 14 was used. Results Significant differences were recorded between medical students and other healthcare students. The intention to get vaccinated against influenza during the next season and having been vaccinated in the previous season was higher in the medical group (p < 0.001). In the group of students of other health professions, we registered a lower probability of identifying themselves as a high-risk group for contracting infectious diseases as a consequence of their profession and health status (aOR 0.49; CI95%: 0.40–0.60) and an increased likelihood of defining their level of knowledge on vaccine-preventable diseases and related vaccinations as “insufficient/sufficient/fair” (aOR 1.31; CI95%: 1.11–1.56). Conclusions Results show several differences between medical students and students of other health professions when it comes to vaccination knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions, as well as a general low tendency to be vaccinated against influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Barbara
- Section of Hygiene – Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
- Corresponding author. Section of Hygiene – Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito, 1 00168 Roma, Italy.
| | - Giulia Dallagiacoma
- Post-Graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Omar Enzo Santangelo
- Department of Health Promotion, Maternal-Infant, Internal Medicine and Specialization of Excellence “G. D'Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Sandro Provenzano
- Department of Health Promotion, Maternal-Infant, Internal Medicine and Specialization of Excellence “G. 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
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13
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Alame M, Kaddoura M, Kharroubi S, Ezzeddine F, Hassan G, Diab El-Harakeh M, Al Ariqi L, Abubaker A, Zaraket H. Uptake rates, knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward seasonal influenza vaccination among healthcare workers in Lebanon. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:4623-4631. [PMID: 34292126 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1948783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recommendations and their occupational risk to influenza infection vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge among healthcare workers (HCWs). No studies have been conducted in Lebanon to assess the influenza vaccine's acceptance among HCWs. We conducted a survey to assess factors associated with vaccine uptake and practices among HCWs in Lebanon. Only 40.4% of the HCWs reported receiving the 2018-2019 seasonal vaccine and 1 out 5 routinely received the seasonal vaccine. One-third of the HCWs reported having free access to the influenza vaccine. The willingness to receive the vaccine decreased had it been offered for a fee. Self, family and community protection (55.5%) was a key vaccination enabler. While, viral evolution, concerns regarding vaccine efficacy and side effects, and cost of vaccine ranked as top vaccination barriers. The majority of the HCWs (75%) recommended the vaccine to their patients. Past influenza vaccination (Odds ratio (OR) = 2.37, CI 1.48,3.79), willingness to receive the vaccine for free (OR = 6.93, CI 4.27-11.34) or having diagnosed influenza (OR = 1.81, CI 1.12-2.92) were significantly associated with HCWs' willingness to recommend the vaccine to patients. Better knowledge about influenza and vaccination was strongly associated with the willingness to receive and recommend the vaccine (p < .001). The vaccination rate among HCWs in Lebanon was suboptimal despite the positive attitudes toward the influenza vaccine. Interventions that enhance vaccine accessibility and knowledge are warranted to improve vaccination coverage among HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak Alame
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Malak Kaddoura
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology & Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samer Kharroubi
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fatima Ezzeddine
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ghadir Hassan
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marwa Diab El-Harakeh
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lubna Al Ariqi
- Infectious Hazards Management Unit, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdinasir Abubaker
- Infectious Hazards Management Unit, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hassan Zaraket
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology & Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
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14
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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.
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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.)
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15
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Qattan AMN, Alshareef N, Alsharqi O, Al Rahahleh N, Chirwa GC, Al-Hanawi MK. Acceptability of a COVID-19 Vaccine Among Healthcare Workers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:644300. [PMID: 33732723 PMCID: PMC7959705 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.644300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to determine the acceptability of a COVID-19 vaccine among healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia and the factors affecting their intention to accept the vaccine. Methods: The study used data from an online cross-sectional survey that was conducted in Saudi Arabia between 8 December 2020 and 14 December 2020. This study employed bivariate and multivariable regression analyses. The bivariate was used to describe and tabulate the frequency of all the variables, including the sociodemographic characteristics, the risk perception and the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccination and a chi-squared test of independence was calculated. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to examine and identify the factors associated with an intention to have the COVID-19 vaccination and the factors associated with its immediate acceptance. Results: Of the total of 736 healthcare workers who began the online questionnaire, 673 completed it (a 91.44% completion rate). Among the study participants, 50.52% were willing to have the COVID-19 vaccine, of which 49.71% intended to have the vaccine as soon as it becomes available in the country, while 50.29% would delay until the vaccine's safety is confirmed. Being a male healthcare worker, perceiving a high risk of infection, and believing that the COVID-19 vaccine should be compulsory for all citizens and residents in the country increased the probability of intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 and the probability of accepting the COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible. Conclusion: This study calls for more health-related education among healthcare workers to alleviate any fears that might be associated with the COVID-19 vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameerah M. N. Qattan
- Department of Health Services and Hospital Administration, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noor Alshareef
- Department of Health Services and Hospital Administration, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Alsharqi
- Department of Health Services and Hospital Administration, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naseem Al Rahahleh
- Department of Finance, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammed Khaled Al-Hanawi
- Department of Health Services and Hospital Administration, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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16
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DALLAGIACOMA G, DE NITTO S, STEFANIZZI P, PROVENZANO S, SANTANGELO OE, CUDA A, GENTILE L, FERRUCCI G, GIANFREDI V. Health Sciences students' immunization behavior: differences among Italian universities. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2021. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.19.04188-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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17
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Costantino C, Ledda C, Squeri R, Restivo V, Casuccio A, Rapisarda V, Graziano G, Alba D, Cimino L, Conforto A, Costa GB, D’Amato S, Mazzitelli F, Vitale F, Genovese C. Attitudes and Perception of Healthcare Workers Concerning Influenza Vaccination during the 2019/2020 Season: A Survey of Sicilian University Hospitals. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8040686. [PMID: 33207626 PMCID: PMC7711679 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza is an infectious disease with a high impact on the population in terms of morbidity and mortality, but despite International and European guidelines, vaccination coverage rates among healthcare workers (HCWs) remain very low. The aim of the present study was to evaluate influenza vaccination adherence in the three Sicilian University Hospitals of Catania, Messina, and Palermo and to understand the attitudes and perceptions of vaccinated healthcare workers and the main reasons for vaccination refusal. A cross-sectional survey through a self-administered questionnaire was conducted during the 2019/2020 influenza season. Overall, 2356 vaccinated healthcare workers answered the questionnaire. The main reason reported for influenza vaccination adherence during the 2019/2020 season was to protect patients. Higher self-perceived risk of contracting influenza and a positive attitude to recommending vaccination to patients were significantly associated with influenza vaccination adherence during the last five seasons via multivariable analysis. Fear of an adverse reaction was the main reason for influenza vaccine refusal. In accordance with these findings, Public Health institutions should develop and tailor formative and informative campaigns to reduce principal barriers to the immunization process and promote influenza vaccination adherence among HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Costantino
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Caterina Ledda
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (C.L.); (V.R.)
| | - Raffaele Squeri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images (BIOMORF), University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (G.B.C.); (S.D.); (F.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Restivo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Alessandra Casuccio
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Venerando Rapisarda
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (C.L.); (V.R.)
| | - Giorgio Graziano
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Davide Alba
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Livia Cimino
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Arianna Conforto
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Gaetano Bruno Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images (BIOMORF), University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (G.B.C.); (S.D.); (F.M.)
| | - Smeralda D’Amato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images (BIOMORF), University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (G.B.C.); (S.D.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesco Mazzitelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images (BIOMORF), University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (G.B.C.); (S.D.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesco Vitale
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.C.); (V.R.); (A.C.); (G.G.); (D.A.); (L.C.); (A.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Cristina Genovese
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images (BIOMORF), University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (G.B.C.); (S.D.); (F.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3914868625
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Promoting Influenza Vaccination among Staff of Nursing Homes According to Behavioral Insights: Analyzing the Choice Architecture during a Nudge-Based Intervention. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8040600. [PMID: 33053868 PMCID: PMC7712811 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Influenza vaccination uptake in nursing home (NH) workers is uncommon. The aim of this study was to understand the choice architecture of influenza vaccination acceptance or refusal among them and to promote vaccination acceptance using the nudge approach. (2) Methods: In autumn 2019, a nudge intervention with a contextual qualitative analysis of choice architecture of vaccination was performed among the staff of eight Tuscan NHs. In summer 2020, a cross-sectional study including the staff of 111 NHs (8 in the nudge, 103 in the comparison group) was conducted to assess the impact of the nudge intervention in promoting vaccination uptake. (3) Results: Macro-categories of motivations for vaccination uptake that emerged from the qualitative analysis were risk perception, value dimension, and trust, while those regarding refusal were risk perception, distrust, value dimension, and reasons related to one’s health. Considering the cross-sectional study, influenza vaccination uptake in the 2018–2019 season was similar in the two groups (23.6% vs. 22.2% respectively, in the nudge and comparison group), but significantly different in the 2019–2020 season: 28% in the nudge vs. 20% in the comparison group. Also, the intention to get the vaccine in the 2020–2021 season was significantly different in the two groups: 37.9% in the nudge and 30.8% in the comparison group. (4) Conclusions: Nudge interventions-simple, fast, low cost-could be effective in promoting vaccination acceptance among NH workers and the analysis of choice architecture could be useful in improving tailored, new nudge interventions aimed at modifying irrational biased and cognitive errors.
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Mellucci C, Tamburrano A, Cassano F, Galletti C, Sguera A, Damiani G, Laurenti P. Vaccine Hesitancy among Master's Degree Students in Nursing and Midwifery: Attitude and Knowledge about Influenza Vaccination. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7191. [PMID: 33019559 PMCID: PMC7579204 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17197191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Influenza vaccination among healthcare workers may reduce morbidity and protect fragile patients. Most of the evidence concerning the vaccine hesitancy of healthcare workers reported lack of knowledge and wrong attitude. The aims of this study were to explore the knowledge and attitudes about influenza vaccination among master's degree students in Nursing and Midwifery, and to evaluate the effectiveness of their involvement in the hospital vaccination campaign in order to increase intention to receive immunization. The students of nurses and midwives were involved in the vaccination sessions of the 2018-19 hospital campaign. They were recruited to complete an online survey. Students of the 2nd year (involved in the vaccination campaign) and the 1st year (not involved) were compared. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed for data analysis. Students who intend to receive influenza vaccination in the following year registered a percentage of 83.6% and showed an overall attitude of 66.8%. The involvement of the students in the vaccination campaign led to a significant increase in their positive vaccination attitude (80.9% vs. 87.0%) and in their intention to receive flu vaccination in the following year (67.7% vs. 100%). A positive attitude towards vaccinations was observed by nurses and midwives. Their involvement in the planning and activities during the vaccination campaign could positively influence their opinions and intention to receive vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Mellucci
- Section of Hygiene, Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (C.G.); (G.D.); (P.L.)
| | - Andrea Tamburrano
- Section of Hygiene, Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (C.G.); (G.D.); (P.L.)
| | - Fabiana Cassano
- Section of Hygiene, Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (C.G.); (G.D.); (P.L.)
| | - Caterina Galletti
- Section of Hygiene, Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (C.G.); (G.D.); (P.L.)
- Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Anna Sguera
- Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gianfranco Damiani
- Section of Hygiene, Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (C.G.); (G.D.); (P.L.)
- Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Laurenti
- Section of Hygiene, Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (C.G.); (G.D.); (P.L.)
- Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
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Kałucka S, Dziankowska-Zaborszczyk E, Grzegorczyk-Karolak I, Głowacka A. A Comparison of the Attitudes to Influenza Vaccination Held by Nursing, Midwifery, Pharmacy, and Public Health Students and Their Knowledge of Viral Infections. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E516. [PMID: 32916981 PMCID: PMC7565400 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza is a viral vaccine-preventable disease. The present study aims to explore the attitude to influenza immunization and the knowledge of influenza among students in Poland. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020 among students of Nursing, Midwifery, Pharmacy, and Public health in all years of study. Data was obtained from 1137 students (90.7% female, 9.3% male), mean age 21.3 ± 1.62 years. The urban students were more likely to be vaccinated against seasonal influenza than rural students (OR: 1.52; 95% CI [1.10-2.10], p = 0.010362). The students of Public health were more likely to be vaccinated against influenza (48.9%, regularly annually 1.1%) than Pharmacy (31%, regularly annually 2.5%), Nursing (30.7%, regularly annually 1.3%) or Midwifery (25.1%, regularly annually 2.4%). First-year and second-year students were vaccinated more often (OR: 2.75; 95% CI [1.99-3.82], p = 0.00000; OR: 1.84; 95% CI [1.32-2.59], p = 0.0004, respectively) than later-year students. All students reported the main reasons for vaccination to be their own protection and parental decision. Concluded, present findings demonstrate a low prevalence of flu vaccination among medical students. Therefore, strategies are needed to increase the uptake of influenza vaccine in students, especially considering the future contact between this group of future health care workers and higher risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Kałucka
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | | | | | - Agnieszka Głowacka
- Department of Developmental Nursing and Health Promotion, Medical University of Lodz, 90-251 Lodz, Poland;
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21
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Vrachnaki O, Vergadi E, Ioannidou E, Galanakis E. Determinants of low uptake of vaccination against influenza, measles, and hepatitis B among healthcare professionals in Greece: a multicenter cross-sectional study. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2020; 16:2663-2669. [PMID: 32401656 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1741311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is recommended for healthcare professionals (HCPs) to protect them against vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs); however, uptake rates are low. This study aimed to evaluate HCPs' influenza, hepatitis B, and measles vaccine uptake in all healthcare levels in Crete, Greece. We conducted a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional multicenter study in 2018, including HCPs employed at 18 primary care centers and 3 hospitals. Overall, 2,246 HCPs responded (57.2% of the target population). The influenza vaccine uptake rate was 36.1% (810/2,246), with the annual vaccination rate at 14.8% (332/2,246) over the previous 5 years. Concurrently, the hepatitis B 3-dose vaccine uptake rate was 60.3% (1,316/2,181). Among the participating HCPs, 70.7% (1,457/2,061) had measles immunity due to previous illness (959/2,061, 46.5%), a 2-dose vaccination scheme (461/2,061, 22.4%), or serological confirmation (37/2,061, 1.8%). Vaccine uptake rates differed between groups depending on age, profession, and workplace setting. Logistic regression analysis revealed that risk factors for no influenza vaccine uptake during the previous season were younger age (≤45 years; odds ratio [OR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08-1.66), profession other than physician (OR 2.94, 95%CI: 2.09-4.12), and working in hospitals (OR 1.39, 95%CI 1.02-1.89). Older age (>45 years) was an independent risk factor for not receiving a measles (OR 26.74, 95%CI: 17.41-41.06) or hepatitis B vaccine (OR 1.36, 95%CI 1.09-1.7). Working in primary care was an independent risk factor for not getting a hepatitis B vaccine (OR 1.52, 95%CI: 1.15-2.1). Our findings indicate that individualized and targeted interventions should be implemented to increase vaccine uptake among HCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Vrachnaki
- Department of Paediatrics, Heraklion University Hospital , Heraklion, Greece
| | - Eleni Vergadi
- Department of Paediatrics, Heraklion University Hospital , Heraklion, Greece.,Department of Paediatrics, Medical School, University of Crete , Heraklion, Greece
| | - Eleni Ioannidou
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rethymnon General Hospital , Rethymnon, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Galanakis
- Department of Paediatrics, Heraklion University Hospital , Heraklion, Greece.,Department of Paediatrics, Medical School, University of Crete , Heraklion, Greece
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22
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Bechini A, Lorini C, Zanobini P, Mandò Tacconi F, Boccalini S, Grazzini M, Bonanni P, Bonaccorsi G. Utility of Healthcare System-Based Interventions in Improving the Uptake of Influenza Vaccination in Healthcare Workers at Long-Term Care Facilities: A Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8020165. [PMID: 32260594 PMCID: PMC7348755 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8020165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) can represent a source of influenza infection for the elderly. While flu vaccination coverage (VC) is satisfactory in the elderly, HCWs are less likely to be vaccinated. There is no definitive evidence on which types of healthcare system-based interventions at LTCFs would be more useful in improving the vaccination uptake among HCWs. We performed a systematic review in different databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Health Evidence, Web of Science, Cinahl) to provide a synthesis of the available studies on this topic. Among the 1177 articles screened by their titles and abstracts, 27 were included in this review. Most of the studies reported multiple interventions addressed to improve access to vaccination, eliminate individual barriers, or introduce policy interventions. As expected, mandatory vaccinations seem to be the most useful intervention to increase the vaccination uptake in HCWs. However, our study suggests that better results in the vaccination uptake in HCWs were obtained by combining interventions in different areas. Educational campaigns alone could not have an impact on vaccination coverage. LTCFs represent an ideal setting to perform preventive multi-approach interventions for the epidemiological transition toward aging and chronicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Bechini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (C.L.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Chiara Lorini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (C.L.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Patrizio Zanobini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (C.L.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-366-343-5179
| | - Francesco Mandò Tacconi
- Nuovo Ospedale delle Apuane, North-West Tuscany LHU, Via Enrico Mattei, 21, 54100 Massa, Italy;
| | - Sara Boccalini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (C.L.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Maddalena Grazzini
- Careggi, University Hospital, Largo G. Alessandro Brambilla, 3, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Paolo Bonanni
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (C.L.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Guglielmo Bonaccorsi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (C.L.); (S.B.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
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23
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Health Literacy, Vaccine Confidence and Influenza Vaccination Uptake among Nursing Home Staff: A Cross-Sectional Study Conducted in Tuscany. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8020154. [PMID: 32235481 PMCID: PMC7348841 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this cross-sectional study is to address whether health literacy (HL) and vaccine confidence are related with influenza vaccination uptake among staff of nursing homes (NHs). It was conducted in Tuscany (Italy) in autumn 2018, including the staff of 28 NHs. A questionnaire was used to collect individual data regarding influenza vaccination in 2016–2017 and 2017–2018 seasons; the intention to be vaccinated in 2018–2019; as well as demographic, educational, and health information. It included also the Italian Medical Term Recognition (IMETER) test to measure HL and eight Likert-type statements to calculate a Vaccine Confidence Index (VCI). The number of employees that fulfilled the questionnaire was 710. The percentage of influenza vaccination uptake was low: only 9.6% got vaccinated in 2016–2017 and 2017–2018 and intended to vaccinate in 2018–2019. The VCI score and the IMETER-adjusted scores were weakly correlated (Rho = 0.156). At the multinomial logistic regression analysis, the VCI was a positive predictor of vaccination uptake. In conclusion, vaccine confidence is the strongest predictor of influenza vaccination uptake among the staff of NHs. The development of an adequate vaccine literacy measurement tool could be useful to understand whether skills could be related to vaccine confidence.
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Paoli S, Lorini C, Puggelli F, Sala A, Grazzini M, Paolini D, Bonanni P, Bonaccorsi G. Assessing Vaccine Hesitancy among Healthcare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study at an Italian Paediatric Hospital and the Development of a Healthcare Worker's Vaccination Compliance Index. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:E201. [PMID: 31795438 PMCID: PMC6963296 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7040201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) in paediatric hospitals are an important source of advice on vaccinations, but vaccine hesitancy can affect even these professionals. The aim of this study is to assess this phenomenon, measuring it by means of a scoring system. A survey was conducted in five departments of an Italian paediatric university hospital of national interest. Vaccination against influenza was considered a behavioral indicator of vaccination uptake. Using the collected data, the healthcare worker's vaccination compliance index (HVCI) was computed. The results demonstrate statistically significant differences between departments and professional profiles. Nearly 80% of the sample was not immunized against seasonal influenza. According to the HVCI scores, the most hesitant departments are the intensive care unit, emergency room, and oncohematology department, while the most hesitant professional profiles are nurses and auxiliary staff. The score of the unvaccinated is significantly lower than that of the vaccinated, and the same difference was found between those who self-perceive to be skilled versus unskilled. The HVCI score was statistically verified as a predictive parameter to assess vaccination against seasonal influenza. By means of strategic training policies, both HVCI and perceived skills could be improved, suggesting that hospital management should draw a complex intervention program to fight against hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Paoli
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.L.); (F.P.); (M.G.); (D.P.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Chiara Lorini
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.L.); (F.P.); (M.G.); (D.P.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Francesco Puggelli
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.L.); (F.P.); (M.G.); (D.P.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Antonino Sala
- Management Department, Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini 24, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Maddalena Grazzini
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.L.); (F.P.); (M.G.); (D.P.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Diana Paolini
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.L.); (F.P.); (M.G.); (D.P.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Paolo Bonanni
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.L.); (F.P.); (M.G.); (D.P.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Guglielmo Bonaccorsi
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy; (C.L.); (F.P.); (M.G.); (D.P.); (P.B.); (G.B.)
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25
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Tognetto A, Zorzoli E, Franco E, Gervasi G, Paglione L, Di Ninno F, De Soccio P, Barbara A, Orsi GB, De Vito C, La Torre G, Bucci R, Mancinelli S, Maurici M, Laurenti P. Seasonal influenza vaccination among health-care workers: the impact of different tailored programs in four University hospitals in Rome. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2019; 16:81-85. [PMID: 31210582 PMCID: PMC7012107 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2019.1632684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) of health-care workers (HCWs) is recommended in most countries to protect them and their patients from infection. Although SIV can reduce the risk of influenza complications among vulnerable patients, vaccination uptake is generally unsatisfactory. The present study aimed to assess the impact of different programs in promoting SIV uptake among HCWs during the season 2017/2018 in four teaching hospitals in Rome. A multicentric cross-sectional study was carried out, in order to describe the four different campaigns and to assess their impact by identifying and developing a set of indicators that provide information about the vaccination services, the percentage of invited HCWs, the vaccinators' workforce and the vaccination coverage rates.The hospitals organized different strategies: Hospital 1, 3 and 4 organized educational courses for HCWs and actively invited every single HCW through e-mail. All the hospitals organized a dedicated unit for influenza vaccination, and Hospital 1 added on-site vaccination sessions that required a large number of staff. Hospital 1 and hospital 4 registered a comparable vaccination coverage rate, 12.97% and 12.76%, respectively, while it was 6.88% in Hospital 2 and 4.23% in Hospital 3. Our indicators demonstrated to be effective and useful for analyzing the different SIV campaigns. The results suggest that the best practice to promote SIV among HCWs should include multiple approaches. Among those, an easy access to the vaccination site seems to play a key role in determining a higher vaccination coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Tognetto
- Section of Hygiene - Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
| | - Ermanno Zorzoli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italia
| | - Elisabetta Franco
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italia
| | - Giuseppe Gervasi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italia
| | - Lorenzo Paglione
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italia
| | - Filippo Di Ninno
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italia
| | - Pasquale De Soccio
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italia
| | - Andrea Barbara
- Section of Hygiene - Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
| | - Giovanni Battista Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italia
| | - Corrado De Vito
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italia
| | - Giuseppe La Torre
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italia
| | - Roberto Bucci
- Section of Hygiene - Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
| | - Sandro Mancinelli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italia
| | - Massimo Maurici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italia
| | - Patrizia Laurenti
- Section of Hygiene - Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italia
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26
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GENOVESE C, PICERNO I, TRIMARCHI G, CANNAVÒ G, EGITTO G, COSENZA B, MERLINA V, ICARDI G, PANATTO D, AMICIZIA D, ORSI A, COLOSIO C, MARSILI C, LARI C, PALAMARA M, VITALE F, CASUCCIO A, COSTANTINO C, AZARA A, CASTIGLIA P, BIANCO A, CURRÀ A, GABUTTI G, STEFANATI A, SANDRI F, FLORESCU C, MARRANZANO M, GIORGIANNI G, FIORE V, PLATANIA A, TORRE I, CAPPUCCIO A, GUILLARI A, FABIANI L, GIULIANI A, APPETITI A, FAUCI VLA, SQUERI A, RAGUSA R, SQUERI R. Vaccination coverage in healthcare workers: a multicenter cross-sectional study in Italy. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2019; 60:E12-E17. [PMID: 31041405 PMCID: PMC6477557 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2019.60.1.1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction In recent years, a phenomenon known as "vaccine hesitancy" has spread throughout the world, even among health workers, determining a reduction in vaccination coverage (VC).A study aimed at evaluating VC among healthcare workers (HCWs) in 10 Italian cities (L'Aquila, Genoa, Milan, Palermo, Sassari, Catanzaro, Ferrara, Catania, Naples, Messina) was performed. Materials and methods Annex 3 of the Presidential Decree n. 445 of 28 December 2000 was used to collect information on the vaccination status of HCWs. The mean and standard deviation (SD) were calculated with regard to the quantitative variable (age), while absolute and relative frequencies were obtained for categorical data (sex, professional profile, working sector, vaccination status). The connection between VC and the categorical variables was evaluated by chi-square method (statistical significance at p < 0.05). The statistical analyses were performed by SPSS and Stata software. Results A total of 3,454 HCWs participated in the project: 1,236 males and 2,218 females.The sample comprised: physicians (26.9%), trainee physicians (16.1%), nurses (17.2%) and other professional categories (9.8%). Low VC was generally recorded. Higher VC was found with regard to polio, hepatitis B, tetanus and diphtheria, while coverage was very low for measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, chickenpox and influenza (20-30%). Conclusions This study revealed low VC rates among HCWs for all the vaccinations. Measures to increase VC are therefore necessary in order to prevent HCWs from becoming a source of transmission of infections with high morbidity and/or mortality both within hospitals and outside.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. GENOVESE
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
- Cristina Genovese, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy - E-mail:
| | - I.A.M. PICERNO
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
| | - G. TRIMARCHI
- Department of Economy, University of Messina, Italy
| | - G. CANNAVÒ
- Medical Direction Universitary Hospital“G. Martino”, Messina, Italy
| | - G. EGITTO
- Medical Direction Universitary Hospital“G. Martino”, Messina, Italy
| | - B. COSENZA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
| | - V. MERLINA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
| | - G. ICARDI
- Hygiene Unit, “Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS”, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - D. PANATTO
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - D. AMICIZIA
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - A. ORSI
- Hygiene Unit, “Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS”, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - C. COLOSIO
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milan, International Centre for Rural Health of the SS. Paolo and Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - C. MARSILI
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milan, International Centre for Rural Health of the SS. Paolo and Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - C. LARI
- Medical Direction of the SS. Paolo and Carlo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - M.A.R. PALAMARA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
| | - F. VITALE
- Department of Science for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - A. CASUCCIO
- Department of Science for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - C. COSTANTINO
- Department of Science for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - A. AZARA
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - P. CASTIGLIA
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - A. BIANCO
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - A. CURRÀ
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - G. GABUTTI
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - A. STEFANATI
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - F. SANDRI
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - C. FLORESCU
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - M. MARRANZANO
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, Italy
| | - G. GIORGIANNI
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, Italy
| | - V. FIORE
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, Italy
| | - A. PLATANIA
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, Italy
| | - I. TORRE
- Department of Public Health, University “Federico II” of Naples, Italy
| | - A. CAPPUCCIO
- Department of Public Health, University “Federico II” of Naples, Italy
| | - A. GUILLARI
- Department of Public Health, University “Federico II” of Naples, Italy
| | - L. FABIANI
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - A.R. GIULIANI
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - A. APPETITI
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - V. LA FAUCI
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
| | - A. SQUERI
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
| | - R. RAGUSA
- University Hospital“Vittorio Emanuele”, Catania, Italy
| | - R. SQUERI
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional images, University of Messina, Italy
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Kyaw WM, Chow A, Hein AA, Lee LT, Leo YS, Ho HJ. Factors influencing seasonal influenza vaccination uptake among health care workers in an adult tertiary care hospital in Singapore: A cross-sectional survey. Am J Infect Control 2019; 47:133-138. [PMID: 30293741 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2018.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate the factors influencing seasonal influenza vaccination uptake among different health care professional groups. METHODS A single-center, cross-sectional survey using a standardized anonymous, self-administered questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes, and uptake of seasonal influenza vaccination was used. Associations between respective health care groups and vaccination acceptance were then assessed. RESULTS In total, 3,873 health care workers completed the questionnaire. Of these, 7% were administrative staff, 17% were allied health staff, 7% were ancillary staff, 11% were medical staff, and 58% were nursing staff. The overall vaccination rate for the Southern Hemisphere 2015 influenza season was 82%. In a multivariate logistic regression model, after controlling for gender and presence of chronic disease, associated factors for accepting influenza vaccination were age, education level of bachelor degree or higher, preference for vaccination provided by mobile teams, having 1-50 patient contacts per week, and belief in the potential severity of influenza and vaccine safety (P < .05). In contrast, factors negatively associated with vaccination acceptance included being a medical staff member or allied health staff member, living with family members under the age of 16, fear of adverse reactions, and disbelief in vaccination effectiveness (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Although vaccine coverage in Singapore has been high, our findings provide guidance for the development of strategies to further improve vaccine coverage among different groups of health care workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Win Mar Kyaw
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.
| | - Angela Chow
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Aung Aung Hein
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Lay Tin Lee
- Occupational Health Services, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yee Sin Leo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Hanley J Ho
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
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28
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Ghandora H, Halperin DM, Isenor JE, Taylor BA, Fullsack P, Di Castri AM, Halperin SA. Knowledge, attitudes, behaviours, and beliefs of healthcare provider students regarding mandatory influenza vaccination. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2019; 15:700-709. [PMID: 30395762 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1543523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza infection poses the same risk to healthcare students as to practising clinicians. While there is substantial dialog about the benefits, risks, and ethics of mandatory influenza immunization policies in Canada, there has been little engagement of healthcare students. To explore the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours of healthcare students, we administered a web-based survey to students at Dalhousie University. Influenza vaccination status varied by program type, with 86.3% of medical students (n = 124) and 52.4% of nursing students (n = 96) self-reporting receipt of the influenza vaccine both in the previous and current seasons; pharmacy students' coverage fell between the two. Pharmacy students had higher mean knowledge scores (10.0 out of 13 questions) than medical (9.26) and nursing (8.88) students. Between 56.1% and 64.5% of students across disciplines were in support of a mandatory masking or vaccination policy, and between 72.6% and 82.3% of students would comply if such a policy were in place. A sense of duty to be immunized, desire to be taught more about influenza and influenza vaccine, belief that the hospital has a right to know vaccination status, support for declination policy, and willingness to accept consequences of noncompliance were all predictors of student support of mandatory policies. Medical and pharmacy students tended to hold more pro-influenza vaccination attitudes, had higher knowledge scores, and better vaccine coverage than nursing students. Based on the overall vaccination behaviour, knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes of students surveyed, this study demonstrates that mandatory influenza immunization policies are generally supported by the next generation of practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Ghandora
- a Department of Pediatrics , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Donna M Halperin
- b Canadian Center for Vaccinology , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada.,c School of Nursing , St. Francis Xavier University , Antigonish , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Jennifer E Isenor
- b Canadian Center for Vaccinology , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada.,d College of Pharmacy , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Beth A Taylor
- a Department of Pediatrics , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada.,b Canadian Center for Vaccinology , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada.,e School of Nursing , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Philippe Fullsack
- b Canadian Center for Vaccinology , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Antonia M Di Castri
- b Canadian Center for Vaccinology , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Scott A Halperin
- a Department of Pediatrics , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada.,b Canadian Center for Vaccinology , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada.,f Department of Microbiology and Immunology , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
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Gilardi F, Castelli Gattinara G, Vinci MR, Ciofi Degli Atti M, Santilli V, Brugaletta R, Santoro A, Montanaro R, Lavorato L, Raponi M, Zaffina S. Seasonal Influenza Vaccination in Health Care Workers. A Pre-Post Intervention Study in an Italian Paediatric Hospital. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E841. [PMID: 29695117 PMCID: PMC5981880 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15050841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite relevant recommendations and evidences on the efficacy of influenza vaccination in health care workers (HCWs), vaccination coverage rates in Europe and Italy currently do not exceed 25%. Aim of the study is to measure the variations in vaccination coverage rates in an Italian pediatric hospital after a promotion campaign performed in the period October⁻December 2017. The design is a pre-post intervention study. The intervention is based on a wide communication campaign and an expanded offer of easy vaccination on site. The study was carried out at Bambino Gesù Children’s hospital in Rome, Italy, on the whole population of HCWs. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed. Vaccination coverage rate increased in 2017/18 campaign compared with the 2016/17 one (+95 HCWs vaccinated; +4.4%). The highest increases were detected in males (+45.7%), youngest employees (+142.9%), mean age of employment (+175%), other HCWs (+209.1%), Emergency Area (+151.6%) and Imaging Diagnostic Department (+200.0%). At multivariate logistic regression, working in some departments and being nurses represents a higher risk of being unvaccinated. Although the vaccination coverage rate remained low, a continuous increase of the coverage rate and development of a different consciousness in HCWs was highlighted. The study significantly identified the target for future campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Gilardi
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Guido Castelli Gattinara
- Vaccination Unit, University Hospital Paediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Vinci
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Veronica Santilli
- Vaccination Unit, University Hospital Paediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Rita Brugaletta
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Annapaola Santoro
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Rosina Montanaro
- University Hospital Paediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy.
| | - Luisa Lavorato
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Raponi
- Health Directorate, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Zaffina
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy.
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Rabensteiner A, Buja A, Regele D, Fischer M, Baldo V. Healthcare worker’s attitude to seasonal influenza vaccination in the South Tyrolean province of Italy: barriers and facilitators. Vaccine 2018; 36:535-544. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Çiftci F, Şen E, Demir N, Çiftci O, Erol S, Kayacan O. Beliefs, attitudes, and activities of healthcare personnel about influenza and pneumococcal vaccines. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2017; 14:111-117. [PMID: 29049005 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2017.1387703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vaccination of healthcare personnel (HCP) is an effective measure for preventing the spread of influenza among at-risk patients. This study was conducted to determine influenza vaccination rates and activities among HCP working at a tertiary healthcare setting. METHODS This study included 470 HCP (85 physicians, 134 nurses, 53 healthcare assistants, 44 paramedics, 47 medical secretaries, and 107 auxillary staff members) working at the emergency, cardiology, chest diseases, and internal medicine departments with the largest volume of patients with vaccination indication of two large university hospitals with similar medical practices and work environment. Each participant completed an anonymous questionnaire form. RESULTS A total of 470 HCP participated in the survey. The compliance rate of the HCP to participate in the survey was 93.6%. Of these, 26.7% had been vaccinated against influenza. Vaccination in the survey year was significantly associated with having regular influenza vaccinations (OR 48.66; 95% CI:[25.09-94.369]; P<.01); having an educational level of college or higher (OR 2.07; 95% CI:[1.03-4.15]; P<.05); being a physician (OR 4.25; 95% CI:[1.28-14.07]; P< .05); and a professional experience of more than 5 years (OR 2.02; 95%CI:[1.13-5.62]; P< .05). Physicians recommended and prescribed the influenza vaccine significantly more frequently than the pneumococcal vaccine (37.6% vs 30.6%, P = .03, 25.9% vs 17.6%, P = .001, respectively). Among all HCP, the reasons for vaccination included having the opinion that the vaccine provides a partial protection against the infection (75.2%), reduces work force loss (48.8%), reduces the rates of death and severe conditions like pneumonia (43.2%), and reduces hospitalization (40.8%). The HCP had been vaccinated to protect family members (81.6%), people around (51.2%), herself/himself (47.2%), and patients (28%) fom infection. The reasons of not getting vaccinated against influenza among HCP included fear of vaccine's adverse effects (31.0%), doubts about its efficacy (28.9%) and safety (22.3%), and lack of adequate knowledge about vaccination (16.2%). CONCLUSION Our results indicated that influenza vaccination rates are low in our whole HCP sample, with physicians having a slightly better rate than other HCP. Getting regularly vaccinated, having an educational level of college or higher, being a physician, and having a professional experience of more than 5 years positively affects the rate of future vaccinations. Physicians significantly more commonly recommended and prescribed the influenza vaccine than the pneumococcal vaccine. The most important reasons for getting vaccinated included having the opinion that the vaccine provided partial protection and intending to protect family members from infection. In our whole HCP sample, the reasons of not getting vaccinated against influenza included fear of vaccine's adverse effects and doubts about its efficacy and safety. Training meetings should be held for HCPs to underscore the importance of the influenza vaccine for protection of patients against the influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Çiftci
- a Specialist, Ankara University School of Medicine , Department of Chest Disease , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Elif Şen
- b Prof, Ankara University School of Medicine , Department of Chest Disease , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Nalan Demir
- c Specialist, Osmangazi University, School of Medicine , Department of Chest Disease , Eskişehir , Turkey
| | - Orçun Çiftci
- d Specialist, Başkent University School of Medicine , Department of Cardiology , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Serhat Erol
- a Specialist, Ankara University School of Medicine , Department of Chest Disease , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Oya Kayacan
- b Prof, Ankara University School of Medicine , Department of Chest Disease , Ankara , Turkey
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Fernández-Villa T, Molina AJ, Torner N, Castilla J, Astray J, García-Gutiérrez S, Mayoral JM, Tamames S, Domínguez Á, Martín V. Factors associated with acceptance of pandemic flu vaccine by healthcare professionals in Spain, 2009-2010. Res Nurs Health 2017; 40:435-443. [PMID: 28805243 DOI: 10.1002/nur.21815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The A(H1N1)pdm09 influenza virus reached pandemic level in Spain in 2009, prompting a national vaccination campaign. To avoid transmission to patients, healthcare professionals' vaccination against pandemic influenza is crucial. The main objective of this study was to analyze factors associated with the failure by healthcare professionals to accept the pandemic vaccination in 2009. A cross-sectional survey was conducted of healthcare professionals in seven of Spain's autonomous regions. A questionnaire was used to collect information about personal and professional details, the respondents' flu vaccination status in the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 seasons (seasonal and pandemic vaccines), and their knowledge and attitudes. A total of 1,661 professionals completed the survey. In the 2009-2010 season, 38.2% had both the seasonal and the pandemic vaccine, 22.1% had had only the seasonal, and 4.7% only the pandemic vaccine. The strongest predictor of not receiving the pandemic vaccine was not having had seasonal vaccinations in that year or the previous year. Those who had not received the pandemic vaccine were more often female; nurses; under 45; denied contact with at-risk groups; and had negative beliefs about the vaccine effectiveness and little concern for getting the disease, being infected at work, or passing it on to patients. It would be prudent to direct preventive campaigns not only at individuals at risk of catching flu but also at health professionals with a negative view of flu vaccine, with a particular focus on nurses, who have a key role in recommending flu vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Fernández-Villa
- Grupo de Investigación en Interacción Gen - Ambiente y Salud (GIIGAS), Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Área de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - Antonio J Molina
- Grupo de Investigación en Interacción Gen - Ambiente y Salud (GIIGAS), Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Área de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - Nuria Torner
- Agencia de Salud Pública de Cataluña, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesus Castilla
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Salud Pública de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jenaro Astray
- Área de Epidemiología, Comunidad de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Sonia Tamames
- Dirección General de Salud Pública, Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación, Junta de Castilla y León, León, Spain
| | | | - Vicente Martín
- Grupo de Investigación en Interacción Gen - Ambiente y Salud (GIIGAS), Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Área de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de León, León, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Karafillakis E, Larson HJ. The benefit of the doubt or doubts over benefits? A systematic literature review of perceived risks of vaccines in European populations. Vaccine 2017; 35:4840-4850. [PMID: 28760616 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.07.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The success of vaccination strategies depends in part on population perceptions of benefits and risks of vaccines and related confidence in vaccination. Better knowledge of public concerns about vaccines and what is driving them is needed to inform vaccination strategies and communications. This literature reviewer examined studies on vaccine and vaccination risk perceptions and concerns across European populations. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies published between 2004 and 2014 in Europe. A descriptive analysis was performed. FINDINGS A total of 145 articles were selected, most of which were conducted in the UK, the Netherlands and France and studied seasonal influenza, HPV and pandemic influenza vaccination. Across all countries and vaccines, the primary area of concern was vaccine safety, followed by perceptions of low likelihood of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), perceived low severity of VPDs, beliefs that vaccines do not work, and overall lack of information. Concerns were found to be vaccine-, country- and population-specific. CONCLUSION In addition to identifying concerns about vaccination in Europe, this study confirmed the notion that individuals have many safety concerns about vaccination and often believe that the risks of vaccination outweigh their benefits. More research needs to be conducted to explore the impact of different types of communication strategies, which would frame the benefits of vaccination as well as risks of not vaccinating. Strategies to better inform public perceptions of vaccines should include the provision of unbiased, comprehensive information tailored to population information needs, and delivered using multiple and new communication technologies such as social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Karafillakis
- Vaccine Confidence Project, London School of Hygiene & Tropical medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Heidi J Larson
- Vaccine Confidence Project, London School of Hygiene & Tropical medicine, London, United Kingdom; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
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Gallone MS, Gallone MF, Cappelli MG, Fortunato F, Martinelli D, Quarto M, Prato R, Tafuri S. Medical students' attitude toward influenza vaccination: Results of a survey in the University of Bari (Italy). Hum Vaccin Immunother 2017; 13:1937-1941. [PMID: 28463582 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2017.1320462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza vaccination is strongly recommended for Italian healthcare professionals, but vaccine coverage is low. Since 2012, vaccination is also offered to medical students as part of the National Immunization Plan; however, few Medical Schools has implemented the plan so far. To study determinants of vaccination compliance, we conducted a survey among medical students at the University of Bari, where influenza vaccination has been actively offered since 2013. Information was obtained by means of an online anonymous questionnaire administered in April 2014. We enrolled 669 students, 383 (57%) vaccinated; 54% were female and the average age was 23.9 ± 4.9 y. Determinants of getting vaccinated were analyzed in a multivariate logistic model. Receiving invitation from the University (aOR = 3.8; 95%CI = 1.2-12.3; p = 0.026), the opinion that vaccine is safe (aOR = 2.8; 95%CI = 1.5-5.0; p = 0.001) and useful (aOR = 3.4; 95%CI = 1.7-6.7; p<0.0001), a specific training about influenza vaccination during the course (aOR = 1.5; 95%CI = 1.1-2.1; p = 0.043), and considering himself as at a major risk of influenza complication (aOR = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.1-2.9; p = 0.001) were significantly associated with vaccine acceptance. Active invitation and training are confirmed as key actions (as in children vaccination strategies) and, according to our results, they could be routinely used to promote vaccination in hard-to-reach groups such as healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serena Gallone
- a Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | - Maria Filomena Gallone
- a Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | | | - Francesca Fortunato
- b Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | - Domenico Martinelli
- b Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | - Michele Quarto
- a Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | - Rosa Prato
- b Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | - Silvio Tafuri
- a Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
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Knowledge, Attitude and Behaviours towards Recommended Vaccinations among Healthcare Workers. Healthcare (Basel) 2017; 5:healthcare5010013. [PMID: 28272332 PMCID: PMC5371919 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare5010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) are an important group of professionals exposed to biological risk during their work activities. So, the aim of this study is to perform a survey on the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of Italian HCWs towards the vaccinations recommended by the Ministry of Health. A cross-sectional study was carried out during the period September 2014–August 2015 in the Lazio region. The study was conducted by recruiting HCWs and biomedical students. The sample was comprised of 571 responders, of whom 12.4% were physicians, 18.9% were nurses, 34.3% were other HCW, and 34.3% were biomedical students (medical and nurses students). Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is perceived as a risk for personal health by 457 (80%) participants; TB is also worrying (434; 76%). Moreover, HBV (70.9%) and tuberculosis (TB) (79.2%) are perceived as a risk for health, while influenza is not considered so by most participants (46.2%). There is an underestimation of the role of influenza, perceived as a risk for 137 respondents (24%). The vaccination rate among these HCWs is highest for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) (82%), and lowest for influenza (28.5%) and varicella (40.3%). The vast majority of responders are in favour of HBV (77.8%) and TB (64.8%) vaccines. For other vaccinations there is less interest (between 33% and 40% for measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis and influenza). This study shows that knowledge of recommended occupational vaccinations is insufficient in HCWs, with few exceptions represented by HBV and TB. There is a need for novel approaches in this field, with the aim of enhancing vaccine coverage among HCW.
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Cheung K, Ho SMS, Lam W. Factors affecting the willingness of nursing students to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination: A large-scale cross-sectional study. Vaccine 2017; 35:1482-1487. [PMID: 28214045 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Nursing students are at high risk of exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases such as seasonal influenza. However, due to the limited number of studies conducted in this area, the prevalence and factors affecting annual seasonal influenza vaccination (ASIV) uptake remain unclear. This was a large-scale cross-sectional survey study conducted among 902 nursing students in different years of study. The questionnaire was developed based on the Health Belief Model (HBM), and logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of ASIV uptake. The results of our study reveal that only 15.2% of nursing students declared having the vaccine in the previous year, and that ASIV uptake was self-reported. ASIV uptake was associated with perceived susceptibility (odds ratio=2.76), perceived seriousness (odds ratio=2.06) and perceived barriers (odds ratio=0.50). The odds of receiving ASIV were 17.96times higher for those participants having had ASIV at least once than those who had not received ASIV in the previous five years. In addition, the odds of receiving ASIV were 4.01times higher for master's than undergraduate students. Our study concludes that the ASIV uptake among nursing students is low. In order to increase vaccination uptake in subsequent years, future studies should promote vaccination based on HBM, focusing on nursing students in undergraduate studies by emphasizing not only vaccination knowledge, but also their social responsibility to protect patients. Influenza vaccination can be viewed as an ethical professional responsibility and a patient safety issue, as well as being an infection control strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kin Cheung
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Yuk Choi Road, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Sin Man Simone Ho
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Yuk Choi Road, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Winsome Lam
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Yuk Choi Road, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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Schmid P, Rauber D, Betsch C, Lidolt G, Denker ML. Barriers of Influenza Vaccination Intention and Behavior - A Systematic Review of Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy, 2005 - 2016. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170550. [PMID: 28125629 PMCID: PMC5268454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 749] [Impact Index Per Article: 107.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza vaccine hesitancy is a significant threat to global efforts to reduce the burden of seasonal and pandemic influenza. Potential barriers of influenza vaccination need to be identified to inform interventions to raise awareness, influenza vaccine acceptance and uptake. OBJECTIVE This review aims to (1) identify relevant studies and extract individual barriers of seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccination for risk groups and the general public; and (2) map knowledge gaps in understanding influenza vaccine hesitancy to derive directions for further research and inform interventions in this area. METHODS Thirteen databases covering the areas of Medicine, Bioscience, Psychology, Sociology and Public Health were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between the years 2005 and 2016. Following the PRISMA approach, 470 articles were selected and analyzed for significant barriers to influenza vaccine uptake or intention. The barriers for different risk groups and flu types were clustered according to a conceptual framework based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and discussed using the 4C model of reasons for non-vaccination. RESULTS Most studies were conducted in the American and European region. Health care personnel (HCP) and the general public were the most studied populations, while parental decisions for children at high risk were under-represented. This study also identifies understudied concepts. A lack of confidence, inconvenience, calculation and complacency were identified to different extents as barriers to influenza vaccine uptake in risk groups. CONCLUSION Many different psychological, contextual, sociodemographic and physical barriers that are specific to certain risk groups were identified. While most sociodemographic and physical variables may be significantly related to influenza vaccine hesitancy, they cannot be used to explain its emergence or intensity. Psychological determinants were meaningfully related to uptake and should therefore be measured in a valid and comparable way. A compendium of measurements for future use is suggested as supporting information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Schmid
- Center for Empirical Research in Economics and Behavioral Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
- Department of Media and Communication Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
| | - Dorothee Rauber
- Center for Empirical Research in Economics and Behavioral Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
- Department of Media and Communication Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
| | - Cornelia Betsch
- Center for Empirical Research in Economics and Behavioral Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
- Department of Media and Communication Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
| | - Gianni Lidolt
- Department of Media and Communication Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
| | - Marie-Luisa Denker
- Department of Media and Communication Sciences, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
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Karafillakis E, Dinca I, Apfel F, Cecconi S, Wűrz A, Takacs J, Suk J, Celentano LP, Kramarz P, Larson HJ. Vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers in Europe: A qualitative study. Vaccine 2016; 34:5013-5020. [PMID: 27576074 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 08/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) are often referred to as the most trusted source of vaccine-related information for their patients. However, the evidence suggests that a number of HCWs are vaccine-hesitant. This study consists of 65 semi-structured interviews with vaccine providers in Croatia, France, Greece, and Romania to investigate concerns HCWs might have about vaccination. The results revealed that vaccine hesitancy is present in all four countries among vaccine providers. The most important concern across all countries was the fear of vaccine side effects. New vaccines were singled out due to perceived lack of testing for vaccine safety and efficacy. Furthermore, while high trust in health authorities was expressed by HCWs, there was also strong mistrust of pharmaceutical companies due to perceived financial interests and lack of communication about side effects. The notion that it is a doctor's responsibility to respond to hesitant patients was reported in all countries. Concerns were also seen to be country- and context-specific. Strategies to improve confidence in vaccines should be adapted to the specific political, social, cultural and economic context of countries. Furthermore, while most interventions focus on education and improving information about vaccine safety, effectiveness, or the need for vaccines, concerns raised in this study identify other determinants of hesitancy that need addressing. The representativeness of the views of the interviewed HCWs must be interpreted with caution. This a qualitative study with a small sample size that included geographical areas where vaccination uptake was lower or where hesitancy was more prevalent and it reflects individual participants' beliefs and attitudes toward the topic. As HCWs have the potential of influencing patient vaccination uptake, it is crucial to improve their confidence in vaccination and engage them in activities targeting vaccine hesitancy among their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Karafillakis
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom.
| | - Irina Dinca
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Sweden
| | - Franklin Apfel
- World Health Communication Associates (WHCA), United Kingdom
| | - Sabrina Cecconi
- World Health Communication Associates (WHCA), United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Wűrz
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Sweden
| | - Judit Takacs
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Sweden
| | - Jonathan Suk
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Sweden
| | | | - Piotr Kramarz
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Sweden
| | - Heidi J Larson
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
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Haviari S, Bénet T, Saadatian-Elahi M, André P, Loulergue P, Vanhems P. Vaccination of healthcare workers: A review. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2016; 11:2522-37. [PMID: 26291642 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2015.1082014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine-preventable diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. As new vaccines are proving to be effective and as the incidence of some infections decreases, vaccination practices are changing. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to and play a role in nosocomial transmission, which makes them an important target group for vaccination. Most vaccine-preventable diseases still carry a significant risk of resurgence and have caused outbreaks in recent years. While many professional societies favor vaccination of HCWs as well as the general population, recommendations differ from country to country. In turn, vaccination coverage varies widely for each microorganism and for each country, making hospitals and clinics vulnerable to outbreaks. Vaccine mandates and non-mandatory strategies are the subject of ongoing research and controversies. Optimal approaches to increase coverage and turn the healthcare workforce into an efficient barrier against infectious diseases are still being debated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skerdi Haviari
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France
| | - Thomas Bénet
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France.,b Equipe Epidémiologie et Santé Publique, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1 ; Lyon , France.,c Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), French Clinical Research Investigation Network (F-CRIN), Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC) ; Lyon , France
| | - Mitra Saadatian-Elahi
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France
| | - Philippe André
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France
| | - Pierre Loulergue
- c Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), French Clinical Research Investigation Network (F-CRIN), Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC) ; Lyon , France.,d Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM, CIC 1417, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Groupe Hospitalier Cochin Broca Hôtel Dieu, CIC Cochin-Pasteur ; Paris , France.,e INSERM, F-CRIN, I-REIVAC, Cochin Center ; Paris , France
| | - Philippe Vanhems
- a Service d'Hygiène, Epidémiologie et Prévention, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon ; Lyon , France.,b Equipe Epidémiologie et Santé Publique, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1 ; Lyon , France.,c Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), French Clinical Research Investigation Network (F-CRIN), Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC) ; Lyon , France
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Conte A, Quattrin R, Filiputti E, Cocconi R, Arnoldo L, Tricarico P, Delendi M, Brusaferro S. Promotion of flu vaccination among healthcare workers in an Italian academic hospital: An experience with tailored web tools. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2016; 12:2628-2633. [PMID: 27245587 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2016.1186319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza causes significant mortality particularly among the elderly and high-risk groups. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at risk of occupational exposure due to contact with patients. Aims of this study was to promote flu shot among HCWs through a multimedia campaign in a large North-Eastern Italian Hospital. METHODS The 2013/2014 flu vaccination multimedia campaign addressed to HCWs was developed by maintaining pre-existing tools (letters in pay slip and poster displayed in wards) and creating 4 on-line spots (30") delivered trough the hospital intranet. Campaign effectiveness was assessed in terms of changes in knowledge, attitude and practice comparing data of pre (10 items) and post test (20 items) survey on a randomized sample of HCWs. RESULTS Response rates were 92.6% (464/501) in pre-test and 83.2% (417/501) in post-test. 93.8% (391/417) of HCWs reported to awareness of the campaign to promote vaccination. Spots were seen by 59.6% (233/391) of HCWs. Some reasons for vaccine denial, "not believing in vaccine efficacy" (34.7% to 14.9%), "not considering flu as a serious problem" (from 24% to 12.6%), "thinking not to get sick" (28.7% to 18.2%) or "being against the vaccine" (32.7% to 21%), showed a statistically significant reduction after the exposure to the campaign. The "intention to get vaccinated in the next year" instead, raised effectively (13.1% to 36.6%). Vaccinated HCWs rate in 2013-2014 season was 7.6% (221/2910), and 5.6% (164/2910) in 2012-2013 (p<0.005). CONCLUSIONS The multimedia campaign succeeded with regard to KAP outcomes, but the vaccination rate is still far from the goal of 90%. Due to their impact, especially on younger age groups, web tools deserve to be better studied as effective approach to convey health information among HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Conte
- a Department of Medical and Biological Sciences , University of Udine , Udine , Italy
| | - Rosanna Quattrin
- b Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria "Santa Maria della Misericordia ," Udine , Italy
| | - Elisa Filiputti
- c Department of Human Sciences , University of Udine , Udine , Italy
| | - Roberto Cocconi
- b Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria "Santa Maria della Misericordia ," Udine , Italy
| | - Luca Arnoldo
- b Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria "Santa Maria della Misericordia ," Udine , Italy
| | | | - Mauro Delendi
- b Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria "Santa Maria della Misericordia ," Udine , Italy
| | - Silvio Brusaferro
- a Department of Medical and Biological Sciences , University of Udine , Udine , Italy
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Durando P, Alicino C, Dini G, Barberis I, Bagnasco AM, Iudici R, Zanini M, Martini M, Toletone A, Paganino C, Massa E, Orsi A, Sasso L. Determinants of adherence to seasonal influenza vaccination among healthcare workers from an Italian region: results from a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e010779. [PMID: 27188810 PMCID: PMC4874132 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-010779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Notwithstanding decades of efforts to increase the uptake of seasonal influenza (flu) vaccination among European healthcare workers (HCWs), the immunisation rates are still unsatisfactory. In order to understand the reasons for the low adherence to flu vaccination, a study was carried out among HCWs of two healthcare organisations in Liguria, a region in northwest Italy. METHODS A cross-sectional study based on anonymous self-administered web questionnaires was carried out between October 2013 and February 2014. Through univariate and multivariate regression analysis, the study investigated the association between demographic and professional characteristics, knowledge, beliefs and attitudes of the study participants and (i) the seasonal flu vaccination uptake in the 2013/2014 season and (ii) the self-reported number of flu vaccination uptakes in the six consecutive seasons from 2008/2009 to 2013/2014. RESULTS A total of 830 HCWs completed the survey. Factors statistically associated with flu vaccination uptake in the 2013/2014 season were: being a medical doctor and agreeing with the statements 'flu vaccine is safe', 'HCWs have a higher risk of getting flu' and 'HCWs should receive flu vaccination every year'. A barrier to vaccination was the belief that pharmaceutical companies influence decisions about vaccination strategies. DISCUSSION All the above-mentioned factors, except the last one, were (significantly) associated with the number of flu vaccination uptakes self-reported by the respondents between season 2008/2009 and season 2013/2014. Other significantly associated factors appeared to be level of education, being affected by at least one chronic disease, and agreeing with mandatory flu vaccination in healthcare settings. CONCLUSIONS This survey allows us to better understand the determinants of adherence to vaccination as a fundamental preventive strategy against flu among Italian HCWs. These findings should be used to improve and customise any future promotion campaigns to overcome identified barriers to immunisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Durando
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Occupational Medicine Unit, IRCCS University Hospital San Martino–IST National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
| | - C Alicino
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - G Dini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Occupational Medicine Unit, IRCCS University Hospital San Martino–IST National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
| | - I Barberis
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Hygiene Unit, IRCCS University Hospital San Martino–IST National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
| | - A M Bagnasco
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - R Iudici
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Zanini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Martini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - A Toletone
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Occupational Medicine Unit, IRCCS University Hospital San Martino–IST National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
| | - C Paganino
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Hygiene Unit, IRCCS University Hospital San Martino–IST National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
| | - E Massa
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Occupational Medicine Unit, IRCCS University Hospital San Martino–IST National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
| | - A Orsi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Hygiene Unit, IRCCS University Hospital San Martino–IST National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
| | - L Sasso
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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Akan H, Yavuz E, Yayla M, Külbay H, Kaspar E, Zahmacıoğlu O, Badur S. Factors affecting uptake of influenza vaccination among family physicians. Vaccine 2016; 34:1712-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.01.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Knowledge, attitude and awareness among healthcare professionals about influenza vaccination in Peshawar, Pakistan. Vaccine 2016; 34:1393-8. [PMID: 26845740 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.01.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was carried out among HCPs in Northwest General Hospital & Research Centre, Hayatabad Peshawar, Pakistan. The purpose of this study was to investigate knowledge, awareness and attitude of HCPs towards influenza vaccination. A total of N=170 questionnaires were distributed among the staff. There was a 97% response rate to this survey (n=165). The median age of the respondents was 30 years and most of them, 98 (59.0%), were from age group of 24-30 years. The majority of the HCPs that participated in this study were male 106 (64.2%), and by profession, the majority were physicians 77 (46.7%), followed by pharmacists and nurses. A majority 114 (69.1%) believed that it was not compulsory for HCPs to get vaccinated for influenza. Top three identified barriers to vaccination were: not everyone is familiar with the availability of the influenza vaccination at their institution (Relative importance weight factors (RIWF)=0.71), due to needle fear I do not like to get vaccinated (RIWF=0.70) and it is not compulsory for healthcare professionals to get vaccinated for influenza (RIWF=0.64). The logistic regression analysis has revealed association for job experience and profession with the most of the eleven knowledge item. However, when overall sum of eleven items were tested to identify the factors affecting the knowledge score, along with profession (-0.215 [-0.389 to 0.040]; p=0.016) and job experience (0.823 [0.521-1.125]; p<0.001) HCPs age (-0.409 [-0.755 to -0.064]; p=0.020) was found to be another significant factor affecting the total knowledge score of HCPs. Overall, scoring of the correct responses revealed that nurses have better knowledge and understanding about influenza and the influenza vaccination (6.5 ± 0.8, p<0.001*), followed by pharmacists (6.3 ± 1.14) and physicians. In spite of the published guidelines and recommendations, a very low percentage of the healthcare professionals in our hospital were vaccinated against influenza, and the barriers to vaccination were prevalent. Various strategies, including arranging seminars regarding awareness about vaccinations, are required to improve the knowledge and overall outcomes.
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Domínguez A, Godoy P, Castilla J, María Mayoral J, Soldevila N, Torner N, Toledo D, Astray J, Tamames S, García-Gutiérrez S, González-Candelas F, Martín V, Díaz J. Knowledge of and attitudes to influenza in unvaccinated primary care physicians and nurses. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2015; 10:2378-86. [PMID: 25424945 PMCID: PMC4896788 DOI: 10.4161/hv.29142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary healthcare workers, especially nurses, are exposed to the vast majority of patients with influenza and play an important role in vaccinating patients. Healthcare workers’ misconceptions about influenza and influenza vaccination have been reported as possible factors associated with lack of vaccination. The objective of this study was to compare the characteristics of unvaccinated physicians and unvaccinated nurses in the 2011–2012 influenza season. We performed an anonymous web survey of Spanish primary healthcare workers in 2012. Information was collected on vaccination and knowledge of and attitudes to the influenza vaccine. Multivariate analysis was performed using unconditional logistic regression. We included 461 unvaccinated physicians and 402 unvaccinated nurses. Compared with unvaccinated nurses, unvaccinated physicians had more frequently received seasonal influenza vaccination in the preceding seasons (aOR 1.58; 95% CI 1.11–2.25), and more frequently believed that vaccination of high risk individuals is effective in reducing complications (aOR 2.53; 95% CI 1.30–4.95) and that influenza can be a serious illness (aOR 1.65; 95% CI 1.17–2.32). In contrast, unvaccinated physicians were less concerned about infecting patients (aOR 0.62; 95% CI 0.40–0.96). Unvaccinated nurses had more misconceptions than physicians about influenza and the influenza vaccine and more doubts about the severity of annual influenza epidemics in patients with high risk conditions and the prevention of complications by means of the influenza vaccination. For unvaccinated physicians, strategies to improve vaccination coverage should stress the importance of physicians as a possible source of infection of their patients. The effectiveness of influenza vaccination of high risk persons should be emphasized in nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Domínguez
- a Departament de Salut Pública; Universitat de Barcelona; Barcelona, Spain
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Loubet P, Kernéis S, Groh M, Loulergue P, Blanche P, Verger P, Launay O. Attitude, knowledge and factors associated with influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake in a large cohort of patients with secondary immune deficiency. Vaccine 2015; 33:3703-8. [PMID: 26073016 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunocompromised patients are at increased risk for severe influenza and invasive pneumococcal diseases. Population-specific vaccine recommendations are thus warranted. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and predictors of influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake in a large cohort of patients with secondary immune deficiency. METHODS An anonymous online survey was submitted to the members of 11 French associations of immunocompromised patients. The questionnaire included questions concerning underlying disease, care and treatment, flu and pneumococcal vaccine uptake, attitudes and knowledge about vaccination. Factors associated with vaccine uptake were assessed by multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS Among the 10,897 solicited patients, 3653 agreed to participate (33.5%): 75% were female, 20% aged 65+, 79% were followed for an autoimmune disease, 13% were solid organ recipients or waiting for transplantation and 8% were treated for hematological malignancies. 3109 (85%) participants were treated with immunosuppressive therapy. Self-reported vaccine uptake was 59% (95%CI [57-60]) against seasonal influenza and 49% (95%CI [47-50]) against pneumococcal diseases. Better knowledge of and favorable attitudes toward vaccination were positively associated with vaccine uptake while being treated with a biological therapy was negatively associated. CONCLUSION Despite specific recommendations regarding immunocompromised patients, influenza and pneumococcal vaccination rates do not reach recommended levels. Targeted information campaigns on vaccination toward these populations should be implemented to improve vaccine coverage and thus reduce the burden of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Loubet
- Inserm, CIC 1417, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Fédération d'infectiologie, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Solen Kernéis
- Inserm, CIC 1417, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Fédération d'infectiologie, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Inserm, F-CRIN, Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC), Paris, France
| | - Matthieu Groh
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Fédération d'infectiologie, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Loulergue
- Inserm, CIC 1417, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Inserm, F-CRIN, Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC), Paris, France
| | - Philippe Blanche
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Fédération d'infectiologie, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Verger
- Inserm, F-CRIN, Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC), Paris, France; UMR Inserm 912, SESSTIM-AMU-IRD, Marseille, France; South-eastern Health Regional Observatory (ORS Paca), Marseille, France
| | - Odile Launay
- Inserm, CIC 1417, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Fédération d'infectiologie, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Inserm, F-CRIN, Innovative Clinical Research Network in Vaccinology (I-REIVAC), Paris, France.
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Accounting for personal and professional choices for pandemic influenza vaccination amongst English healthcare workers. Vaccine 2015; 33:2267-2272. [PMID: 25820062 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers (HCWs) are encouraged to get vaccinated during influenza pandemics to reduce their own, and patients', risk of infection, and to encourage their patients to get immunised. Despite extensive research on HCWs' receipt of vaccination, little is known about how HCWs articulate pandemic influenza vaccination advice to patients. AIMS To explore HCWs' uptake of the A/H1N1 vaccine during the pandemic of 2009-2010, their recommendations to patients at the time, and their anticipated choices around influenza vaccination under different pandemic scenarios. METHOD We conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups with eight vaccinated and seventeen non-vaccinated HCWs from primary care practices in England. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The HCWs constructed their receipt of vaccination as a personal choice informed by personal health history and perceptions of vaccine safety, while they viewed patients' vaccination as choices made following informed consent and medical guidelines. Some HCWs received the A/H1N1 vaccine under the influence of their local practice organizational norms and values. While non-vaccinated HCWs regarded patients' vaccination as patients' choice, some vaccinated HCWs saw it also as a public health issue. The non-vaccinated HCWs emphasised that they would not allow their personal choices to influence the advice they gave to patients, whereas some vaccinated HCWs believed that by getting vaccinated themselves they could provide a reassuring example to patients, particularly those who have concerns about influenza vaccination. All HCWs indicated they would accept vaccination under the severe pandemic scenario. However, most non-vaccinated HCWs expressed reticence to vaccinate under the mild pandemic scenario. CONCLUSIONS Providing evidence-based arguments about the safety of new vaccines and the priority of public health over personal choice, and creating strong social norms for influenza vaccination as part of the organizational culture, should increase uptake of influenza vaccination among primary care HCWs and their patients.
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Bonaccorsi G, Santomauro F, Porchia BR, Niccolai G, Pellegrino E, Bonanni P, Lorini C. Beliefs and Opinions of Health Care Workers and Students Regarding Influenza and Influenza Vaccination in Tuscany, Central Italy. Vaccines (Basel) 2015; 3:137-47. [PMID: 26344950 PMCID: PMC4494245 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines3010137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunization of health care workers (HCWs) against influenza has been associated with improvements in patient safety. The aim of this study is to assess the beliefs, attitudes, and knowledge of HCWs and health profession students regarding influenza. An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to HCWs in three local Florentine healthcare units, at Careggi University Teaching Hospital, and to students in health profession degree programs. A total of 2576 questionnaires were fully completed. A total of 12.3% of subjects responded that they were "always vaccinated" in all three of the seasonal vaccination campaigns studied (2007-2008 to 2009-2010), 13.1% had been vaccinated once or twice, and 74.6% had not received vaccinations. Although the enrolled subjects tended to respond that they were "never vaccinated," they considered influenza to be a serious illness and believed that the influenza vaccine is effective. The subjects who refused vaccination more frequently believed that the vaccine could cause influenza and that it could have serious side effects. More than 60% of the "always vaccinated" group completely agreed that HCWs should be vaccinated. Self-protection and protecting family members or other people close to the respondent from being infected and representing potential sources of influenza infection can be considered motivating factors for vaccination. The results highlight the importance of improving vaccination rates among all HCWs through multi-component interventions. Knowledge of influenza should be reinforced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmo Bonaccorsi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Francesca Santomauro
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Barbara Rita Porchia
- School of Specialization in Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Giuditta Niccolai
- School of Specialization in Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Elettra Pellegrino
- School of Specialization in Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Paolo Bonanni
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Chiara Lorini
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 48, 50134 Florence, Italy.
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Kassianos G. Willingness of European healthcare workers to undergo vaccination against seasonal influenza: current situation and suggestions for improvement. Drugs Context 2015; 4:212268. [PMID: 25657810 PMCID: PMC4316812 DOI: 10.7573/dic.212268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Revised: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Uptake of vaccination against seasonal influenza in healthcare workers (HCWs) is, in general, low (vaccine coverage of 6-54%), as is awareness of its importance, and has been decreasing in most European Union (EU) countries in recent years. By virtue of their working environment, HCWs are at an increased risk of influenza infection and of subsequently transmitting the virus to vulnerable patients, in whom disease burden is significant. It could be argued that a similar or higher target vaccination rate to that recommended for older age groups and people with chronic medical conditions (75%) should be applied to HCWs, and the European Council recommends Member States to improve vaccination coverage in this population. In this context, better education of HCWs is needed to increase awareness and highlight the importance of HCW vaccination for the benefit of public health, particularly for their patients, who may be at risk of serious complications that could lead to disability or death. Secondary to these professional responsibilities, personal benefits (as well as benefits to close family and friends) should also be emphasised. Misconceptions that create barriers to vaccination need to be discussed openly and objections placed in the context of public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Kassianos
- President, British Global and Travel Health Association, Wokingham, Berkshire, UK
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Abstract
The thought is terrifying--you are admitted to the hospital and you die of a nosocomial infection. What sounds like a horror scenario, happens every day in hospitals all over the world. Nosocomial influenza is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality among patients with underlying diseases (especially immunocompromised patients), the elderly, and neonates. Although vaccination of healthcare personnel (HCP) is the main measure for preventing nosocomial influenza and is consistently recommended by public-health authorities, vaccine uptake among HCP remains low. (1.)
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Wicker
- a Occupational Health Service ; University hospital Frankfurt; Goethe University ; Frankfurt am Main , Germany
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Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of hospital health-care workers regarding influenza A/H1N1: a cross sectional survey. BMC Infect Dis 2014; 14:208. [PMID: 24739890 PMCID: PMC4021506 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-14-208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess the knowledge, the attitudes, and the behaviour towards influenza A/H1N1 and the vaccination among health-care workers (HCWs). METHODS A sample of HCWs was selected from a random sample of non-teaching public hospitals, located in the cities of Naples and Avellino (Italy), received a self-administered anonymous questionnaire including questions about socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge on modes of transmission and preventative measures, attitudes and behaviour relating to influenza A/H1N1. RESULTS Only 36.1% correctly knew the main modes of transmission, and that HCWs are a risk category and this level of knowledge was significantly higher in HCWs having received information through scientific journals. A higher perceived risk of contracting influenza A/H1N1 has been observed in the HCWs more knowledgeable, in those considering influenza A/H1N1 a serious disease, and in those working in surgical wards. Only 16.7% have received the influenza A/H1N1 vaccination and HCWs with more fear of contracting influenza A/H1N1, those considering vaccine more useful and less dangerous were more likely to receive vaccine. CONCLUSIONS Education and communication strategies for improving the level of knowledge and for the immunization uptake regarding influenza A/H1N1 HCWs are strongly needed.
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