Knowledge, attitudes and beliefs related to seasonal influenza vaccination among Tunisian physicians
Hejer Harrabi
La Rabta University Hospital, Tunisia
: J Immunol Tech Infect Dis
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Despite the recommendations for physicians, nurses, and other personnel in both hospital and outpatientcare settings to be vaccinated annually against influenza, the influenza vaccination rate among Tunisian healthcare workers (HCW) remains low. The purpose of this survey is to assess influenza vaccination status and related knowledge, attitudes and beliefs among a national sample of primary care physicians and specialists likely to see patients at high risk for complications from influenza. Methodology: We are conducting a prospective cross-sectional survey in Tunis (Tunisia) from February 2017 to April 2017. A selfadministered questionnaire covering knowledge, attitudes and beliefs related to influenza was mailed to a sample of physicians who likely to see patients at high risk for complications from influenza. Herein, we present the first results of the study during February 2017. Results: In a first mailing, during February 2017, 150 physicians were included. The overall response was 54.6% (n=82). Physicians reported a very low vaccination rate: 12% (n=10). Of the 72 unvaccinated, 33.3% considered low risk of catching or spreading influenza, 26.3% did not have access to vaccine on site, 16.6% feared the side effects of the vaccine and 5.5% considered influenza to be a benign illness. All the physicians recommend vaccination for their patients at high risk for complications from influenza. They were also asked about the HCWs vaccination status in their departments: 26.8% of the physicians estimated that HCWs were vaccinated. Conclusion & Significance: This review highlights the low rate of influenza vaccination among physicians and other HCWs. To improve these rates, worksite policies that facilitate access to vaccination should continue to be pursued. Further studies on this topic, including qualitative and interventional studies (based on behavior change theories) are important. These should cover occupational vaccines and determinants known to be associated with vaccine hesitancy.
Biography
Hejer Harrabi is a Medical Doctor, Infectious Diseases Specialist at La Rabta University Hospital, Tunis El Manar University, Tunisia. She has work experience as Clinical Research Assistant and Referring Doctor. Her research interests include “Influenza, HIV infection, viral hepatitis, travel medicine, tuberculosis, bone and joint infections”.
