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Erfani G, McCready J, Nichol B, Gordon C, Unsworth J, Croston M, Comparcini D, Simonetti V, Cicolini G, Mikkonen K, Keisala J, Tomietto M. Identifying patterns and profiles of vaccination hesitancy among nurses for tailoring healthcare policies in the UK: A cross-sectional study. Int Nurs Rev 2024. [PMID: 39158159 DOI: 10.1111/inr.13035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
AIMS To profile the characteristics of nurses with varying levels of vaccine hesitancy toward the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. BACKGROUND In many countries across the world, healthcare workers, and nurses in particular, display significant reluctance toward COVID-19 and influenza vaccines due to concerns about safety, distrust in healthcare policies, and media influences. To address this, a proposed approach involves profiling nurses to tailor vaccination campaigns and to improve acceptance rates and public health outcomes. METHODS This cross-sectional study adopted the Vaccination Attitudes Examination scale to assess hesitancy toward COVID-19 and influenza vaccines among 294 registered nurses in the UK between March and July 2023. A K-means cluster analysis was performed. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines were adopted. RESULTS Three profiles were identified. Profile A showed low vaccination hesitancy, profile B showed average hesitancy, and profile C showed high hesitancy toward vaccines. The highest concern for all profiles was related to unforeseen future effects of vaccination. Profile C had more nurses in early career roles, whereas nurses in profiles A and B were in more senior roles. Profile A showed higher educational attainment. Nurses in profile C used Snapchat more, whereas nurses in profile A used Twitter more frequently. CONCLUSION This study identified specific characteristics associated with higher levels of vaccination hesitancy in nursing. Unforeseen future effects of vaccination are a core aspect to consider in promoting vaccination. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND NURSING POLICY Policies and vaccination campaigns should be targeted on early career nurses and should deliver tailored messages to dispel misinformation about unforeseen future effects of vaccination through specific social media platforms. Senior nurses should be involved as role models in promoting vaccination. These results are key for enhancing an evidence-based approach to implementing global health policies in healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Erfani
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jemma McCready
- Department of Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Bethany Nichol
- Department of Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Charlotte Gordon
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - John Unsworth
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Dania Comparcini
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, University of Bari "Aldo Moro,", Bari, Italy
| | - Valentina Simonetti
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, University "G. D'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Cicolini
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, University "G. D'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Kristina Mikkonen
- Research Unit of Health Science and Technology Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jeremia Keisala
- Research Unit of Health Science and Technology Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Marco Tomietto
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Research Unit of Health Science and Technology Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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McCready J, Erfani G, Comparcini D, Cicolini G, Mikkonen K, Keisala J, Tomietto M. Profiling vaccine hesitancy in nursing to tailor public healthcare policies: A cross-sectional international study. J Nurs Scholarsh 2024. [PMID: 39143721 DOI: 10.1111/jnu.13016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vaccine hesitancy is a complex issue of global concern. As nurses play a vital role in delivering patient care and shaping public opinions on vaccines, interventions to address vaccine hesitancy in nursing are imperative. As such, identifying profiles of characteristics and attitudes contributing to hesitancy may help identify specific areas of focus to target tailored global vaccination uptake campaigns. The purpose of this study was to profile the characteristics and attitudes contributing to hesitancy toward COVID-19 and Influenza vaccines in the nursing community. DESIGN This multisite, cross-sectional study recruited 1967 registered nurses and 1230 nursing students from the United Kingdom, Finland, and Italy between March and September 2023. METHODS Data collection involved an online survey adopting the Vaccination Attitudes Examination (VAX) Scale, the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, and questions pertaining to sociodemographic and occupational characteristics. A k-means cluster analysis was used to identify various clusters of hesitancy based on the VAX Scale. One-way ANOVA and chi-square tests were used to identify significant differences in sociodemographic characteristics, occupational factors, vaccination attitudes, and social media usage between the clusters. RESULTS Three distinct clusters were identified. Profile A showed high vaccine confidence, profile B displayed slight hesitancy, and profile C reported high levels of hesitancy. In profile C, higher levels of vaccine hesitancy were identified in younger, less experienced nurses with lower educational attainment. While older nurses with higher educational attainment, who were in senior roles, were more vaccine-confident and had a consistent history of accepting the Influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations (profile A). The study found Italian nurses highly hesitant (profile C), British nurses highly confident (profile A), and Finnish nurses evenly distributed between confident, slightly hesitant, and highly hesitant (profiles A, B, and C, respectively). In addition, more frequent usage of Instagram and TikTok was associated with vaccine hesitancy (profiles B and C), and LinkedIn and X were more common among vaccine-confident individuals (profile A). CONCLUSIONS This study has identified specific sociodemographic and occupational factors that are related to vaccine hesitancy in an international sample of nurses. Additionally, attitudes contributing to hesitancy were identified, with worries about unforeseen future effects of the vaccine being identified as a critical attitude that may undermine confidence and increase hesitancy in nursing. This study also sheds light on the influence that social media platforms have on vaccine hesitancy and, as such, indicates which platforms are effective to disseminate vaccination campaigns to global nursing communities. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Global vaccination campaigns should focus on specific profiles and clusters to promote vaccination in the international nursing community. Empowering nurses early in their careers will help to instill positive vaccination behaviors, ensuring a sustained uptake of vaccinations throughout the individual's career and beyond, with an impact on promoting vaccination at the public health level as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemma McCready
- Department of Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Goran Erfani
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dania Comparcini
- Section of Nursing, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Cicolini
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, "Gabriele D'Annunzio" University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Kristina Mikkonen
- Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Research Unit of Health Science and Technology Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Jeremia Keisala
- Research Unit of Health Science and Technology Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Marco Tomietto
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Research Unit of Health Science and Technology Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
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Staruszkiewicz M, Pituch-Noworolska A, Skayne M, Matthias T, Skoczen S. The Healthcare Study Examines the Humoral Anti-S1 Antibody Response Following mRNA Vaccination, Comparing Individuals with and without Prior SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2024; 72:aite-2024-0016. [PMID: 39146978 DOI: 10.2478/aite-2024-0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Vaccines targeting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been pivotal in curtailing the spread of infection. Health care workers, as frontline responders, were among the first to receive vaccination to mitigate coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19) transmission. This study aimed to assess the humoral response elicited by mRNA vaccines, specifically measuring antibodies against the spike S1 protein, a marker of immune response. A cohort of 649 health care workers received three doses of mRNA vaccine, with antibody levels evaluated before and after each dose within a 2- to 3-week interval. Participants were stratified into groups based on prior exposure to the virus: those without prior contact (440 individuals) and those with a history of infection (209 individuals). Among the latter, cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection ranged from asymptomatic (92 individuals) to mild symptomatic (117 individuals). Participants with a history of infection exhibited elevated levels of IgG antibodies against the S1 protein prior to vaccination. Notably, both immunoglobulin IgA class (IgA) and immunoglobulin IgG class (IgG) antibody responses increased significantly post-vaccination, peaking after the second dose for IgG and after the third dose for IgA. Interestingly, the immune response to the vaccine did not vary significantly based on the symptomatic or asymptomatic nature of prior infection. Furthermore, the study findings indicate that completion of the vaccination regimen led to sustained antibody production lasting between 6 months and 9 months. This study underscores the robust and enduring humoral response elicited by mRNA vaccines, particularly among health care workers, irrespective of prior SARS-CoV-2 exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mohamad Skayne
- AESKU. Diagnostics GmbH & Co. KG, Sales and Marketing Department, Wendelsheim, Germany
| | - Torsten Matthias
- Department of Immunology, University Children's Hospital, Krakow, Poland
| | - Szymon Skoczen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University, Medical College, Krakow, Poland
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Children's Hospital, Krakow, Poland
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Nikolopoulou GB, Tzoutzas I, Tsakris A, Maltezou HC. Hepatitis B in Healthcare Personnel: An Update on the Global Landscape. Viruses 2023; 15:2454. [PMID: 38140695 PMCID: PMC10748141 DOI: 10.3390/v15122454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the outstanding progress that has been made in the prevention, detection, and management of hepatitis B during the past decades, hepatitis B remains a problem among healthcare personnel (HCP) in many countries. We reviewed studies on all aspects of hepatitis B in HCP published from 2017 through April 2023. They revealed wide variations on the prevalence of infection among HCP, ranging from 0.6% in Europe to >8.7% in Africa, almost always in association with very low vaccination rates. Many studies found a significant association between HCP's knowledge about hepatitis B and hepatitis B vaccines, their vaccination status, and practices. This research also discloses global inequities regarding vaccination policies against hepatitis B, free-of-charge vaccinations, and access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Strategies to prevent and manage accidental exposures are needed in order to reduce the burden of hepatitis B on HCP, while written policies for all aspects of infection prevention, protective equipment, and PEP should be available. Lastly, HCP should be accordingly educated. These are all imperative given the decline of routine vaccinations in the COVID-19 era, particularly in countries with fragile vaccination programs, and the disruptions of interventions for hepatitis B that are expected to provide a pool of virus transmission to future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia B. Nikolopoulou
- Department of Hepatitis, National Public Health Organization, 3-5 Agrafon Street, 15123 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Tzoutzas
- School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 2 Thivon Street, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Helena C. Maltezou
- Directorate of Research, Studies and Documentation, National Public Health Organization, 3-5 Agrafon Street, 15123 Athens, Greece
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Ledda C, Motta G, Rapisarda V, Maltezou HC. Influenza immunization of healthcare personnel in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era: Still a lot to do! Vaccine X 2023; 15:100402. [PMID: 38058792 PMCID: PMC10696103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2023.100402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare-associated influenza is frequently encountered in healthcare settings with significant morbidity and mortality among vulnerable patients, absenteeism among healthcare personnel (HCP), and interruption of healthcare services. Numerous investigations indicate that nosocomial outbreaks are often traced to HCP. Despite the international and national endorsements, seasonal influenza vaccine acceptance among HCP continues suboptimal worldwide. Infection control is the major objective for healthcare risk management in order to guarantee patient safety, limit the cost of hospitalization and assurance health management in controlling influenza seasons. Vigilance and anticipation are required as globally we are moving from a reactive COVID-19 pandemic response phase to one of planning for the co-circulation of viral respiratory infections. Declining to understand HCP perception of influenza risk and acceptance of vaccination might have impact patient safety as well as healthcare services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Ledda
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Motta
- Occupational Medicine Unit, “Garibaldi” Hospital of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Venerando Rapisarda
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Occupational Medicine Unit, “G. Rodolico – San Marco” University Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Helena C. Maltezou
- Directorate for Research, Studies and Documentation, National Public Health Organization, Athens, Greece
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Maltezou HC, Ledda C, Sipsas NV. Absenteeism of Healthcare Personnel in the COVID-19 Era: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Implications for the Post-Pandemic Seasons. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2950. [PMID: 37998442 PMCID: PMC10671277 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11222950] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review aimed to assess COVID-19-associated absenteeism among healthcare personnel (HCP). PubMed was searched on 4 February 2023. Inclusion criteria were the presentation of original data on COVID-19-associated absenteeism among HCP. Exclusion criteria were absenteeism associated with burnout, mental health illness, post-COVID syndrome, or child-care. Nineteen articles were identified; fifteen concerned almost exclusively the first pandemic year. Hospitals accounted for most data. There was heterogeneity across studies in terms of presentation of absenteeism data. Before COVID-19 vaccines became available, COVID-19 was a major driver of HCP absenteeism with excess costs, while the mean duration of absenteeism ranged from 5.82 to 33 days per episode of absence. Determinant factors of absenteeism rates were department of employment, high-risk exposure, age, profession, and work experience of HCP, suspected COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 testing, SARS-CoV-2 positivity, and return-to-work strategy. Two studies demonstrated that COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduced the burden of absenteeism. Routine testing of asymptomatic HCP and use of personal protective equipment also significantly ameliorated absenteeism. In conclusion, COVID-19 has been a major driver of HCP absenteeism. Research is needed to assess how COVID-19 will impact HCP in the next years, considering the new SARS-CoV-2 variants, the co-circulation of other respiratory viruses, and the newer COVID-19 vaccines. Networks are needed to survey morbidity and absenteeism among HCP in real-time and guide vaccination policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena C. Maltezou
- Directorate of Research, Studies and Documentation, National Public Health Organization, 3-5 Agrafon Street, Marousi, 15123 Athens, Greece
| | - Caterina Ledda
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 87 Santa Sofia Street, 95124 Catania, Italy;
| | - Nikolaos V. Sipsas
- Pathophysiology Department, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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Giwangkancana G, Pradian E, Indriasari, Handayani SD. Lunar New Year and Eid al Fitr: the circle of COVID-19. IJID REGIONS 2023; 7:127-129. [PMID: 36158785 PMCID: PMC9481468 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Lunar New Year and Eid al-Fitr are national holidays, and mass movement of people is seen. Lunar New Year 2020 potentiated the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), while Eid al-Fitr 2022 was a test for federal management of COVID-19 and the success of the Indonesian vaccination campaign. Analysis of new confirmed cases, hospitalizations and the number of elective surgery cancellations due to positive polymerase chain reaction screening in the pre-operative period provides a snapshot of herd immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gezy Giwangkancana
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran/Dr. Hasan Sadikin National Referral Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Erwin Pradian
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran/Dr. Hasan Sadikin National Referral Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Indriasari
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran/Dr. Hasan Sadikin National Referral Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
- Central Operating Theatre, Dr. Hasan Sadikin National Referral Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Santi Devi Handayani
- Central Operating Theatre, Dr. Hasan Sadikin National Referral Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
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Mahameed H, Al-Mahzoum K, AlRaie LA, Aburumman R, Al-Naimat H, Alhiary S, Barakat M, Al-Tammemi AB, Salim NA, Sallam M. Previous Vaccination History and Psychological Factors as Significant Predictors of Willingness to Receive Mpox Vaccination and a Favorable Attitude towards Compulsory Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:897. [PMID: 37243001 PMCID: PMC10221367 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
During the ongoing multi-country monkeypox (Mpox) outbreak, healthcare workers (HCWs) have represented a key group in mitigating disease spread. The current study aimed to evaluate the attitude of nurses and physicians in Jordan towards Mpox vaccination, as well as their attitude towards compulsory vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), influenza, and Mpox. An online survey was distributed in January 2023 based on the previously validated 5C scale for psychological determinants of vaccination. Previous vaccination behavior was assessed by inquiring about the history of getting the primary and booster COVID-19 vaccination, influenza vaccine uptake during COVID-19, and any history of influenza vaccine uptake. The study sample consisted of 495 respondents: nurses (n = 302, 61.0%) and physicians (n = 193, 39.0%). Four hundred and thirty respondents (86.9%) had heard of Mpox before the study, and formed the final sample considered for Mpox knowledge analysis. Deficiencies in Mpox knowledge were reflected in a mean knowledge score of 13.3 ± 2.7 (out of 20.0 as the maximum score), with significantly lower knowledge among nurses and females. The intention to receive Mpox vaccination was reported by 28.9% of the participants (n = 143), while 33.3% were hesitant (n = 165), and 37.8% were resistant (n = 187). In multivariate analysis, Mpox vaccine acceptance was significantly associated with previous vaccination behavior, reflected in higher vaccine uptake and with higher 5C scores, while Mpox knowledge was not correlated with Mpox vaccination intention. The overall attitude towards compulsory vaccination was neutral, while a favorable attitude towards compulsory vaccination was associated with higher 5C scores and a history of previous vaccination uptake. The current study showed a low intention to get Mpox vaccination in a sample of nurses and physicians practicing in Jordan. The psychological factors and previous vaccination behavior appeared as the most significant determinants of Mpox vaccine acceptance and of attitudes towards compulsory vaccination. The consideration of these factors is central to policies and strategies aiming to promote vaccination among health professionals in efforts to prepare for future infectious disease epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneen Mahameed
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | | | | | | | - Hala Al-Naimat
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Sakher Alhiary
- Nursing Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Muna Barakat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan
- MEU Research Unit, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan
| | - Ala’a B. Al-Tammemi
- Migration Health Division, International Organization for Migration (IOM), The UN Migration Agency, Amman 11953, Jordan
| | - Nesreen A. Salim
- Prosthodontic Department, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Prosthodontic Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - 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
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Bianchi FP, Cuscianna E, Rizzi D, Signorile N, Daleno A, Migliore G, Tafuri S. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on flu vaccine uptake in healthcare workers in Europe: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023; 22:777-784. [PMID: 37605528 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2250437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Influenza immunization policies in Europe primarily target at-risk and vulnerable subjects. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are a key focus of vaccination campaigns. Our systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the role of the COVID-19 pandemic on influenza vaccine uptake among HCWs since the 2020/21 influenza season. AREAS COVERED Fourteen studies were included in the meta-analysis and systematic review, selected from scientific articles available in MEDLINE/PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Scopus databases between 1 January 2021 and 15 January 2023 The analysis revealed a significant relationship between influenza vaccine uptake and COVID-19 related determinants, such as willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccination, fear of COVID-19, and differentiating between influenza and COVID-19 symptoms (OR = 5.70; 95%CI = 2.08-15.60). Several studies reported higher vaccination coverages in the 2020/21 season compared to previous seasons, with VC values ranging from + 17% to + 38% compared to the 2019/20 season. The included studies identified a shift in HCWs' attitudes toward influenza vaccination, attributed to increased awareness due to the COVID-19 pandemic. EXPERT OPINION Vaccine hesitancy is common among HCWs in Europe, necessitating mutual strategies across all European countries. So far, mandatory vaccination policies have shown the most potential in achieving high and sustainable influenza vaccination rates among HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Paolo Bianchi
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Bari Policlinico General-University Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Eustachio Cuscianna
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Donato Rizzi
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Noemi Signorile
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Daleno
- Bari Policlinico General-University Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Silvio Tafuri
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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Association between COVID-19 vaccination status, time elapsed since the last vaccine dose, morbidity, and absenteeism among healthcare personnel: A prospective, multicenter study. Vaccine 2022; 40:7660-7666. [PMID: 36372669 PMCID: PMC9597548 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AIM We assessed the impact of COVID-19 vaccination status and time elapsed since the last vaccine dose on morbidity and absenteeism among healthcare personnel (HCP) in the context of a mandatory vaccination policy. METHODS We followed 7592 HCP from November 15, 2021 through April 17, 2022. Full COVID-19 vaccination was defined as a primary vaccination series plus a booster dose at least six months later. RESULTS There were 6496 (85.6 %) fully vaccinated, 953 (12.5 %) not fully vaccinated, and 143 (1.9 %) unvaccinated HCP. A total of 2182 absenteeism episodes occurred. Of 2088 absenteeism episodes among vaccinated HCP with known vaccination status, 1971 (94.4 %) concerned fully vaccinated and 117 (5.6 %) not fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated HCP had 1.6 fewer days of absence compared to those not fully vaccinated (8.1 versus 9.7; p-value < 0.001). Multivariable regression analyses showed that full vaccination was associated with shorter absenteeism compared to not full vaccination (OR: 0.56; 95 % CI: 0.36-0.87; p-value = 0.01). Compared to a history of ≤ 17.1 weeks since the last dose, a history of > 17.1 weeks since the last dose was associated with longer absenteeism (OR: 1.22, 95 % CI:1.02-1.46; p-value = 0.026) and increased risk for febrile episode (OR: 1.33; 95 % CI: 1.09-1.63; p-value = 0.004), influenza-like illness (OR: 1.53, 95 % CI: 1.02-2.30; p-value = 0.038), and COVID-19 (OR: 1.72; 95 % CI: 1.24-2.39; p-value = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impose a considerable impact on HCP. The administration of a vaccine dose in less than four months before significantly protected against COVID-19 and absenteeism duration, irrespective of COVID-19 vaccination status. Defining the optimal timing of boosters is imperative.
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Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare personnel in the era of new SARS-CoV-2 variants. Vaccine 2022; 40:7167-7169. [PMID: 36344360 PMCID: PMC9597529 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.10.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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12
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Maltezou HC, Martínez-Jarreta B, Rapisarda V, Ledda C. Editorial: Occupational risks of healthcare personnel. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1022327. [PMID: 36211662 PMCID: PMC9533770 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1022327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Helena C. Maltezou
- Directorate of Research, Studies, and Documentation, National Public Health Organization, Athens, Greece,*Correspondence: Helena C. Maltezou
| | - Begoña Martínez-Jarreta
- Forensic and Occupational Medicine, Department of Pathological Anatomy, Forensic and Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Venerando Rapisarda
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Caterina Ledda
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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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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Overview of Tools and Measures Investigating Vaccine Hesitancy in a Ten Year Period: A Scoping Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10081198. [PMID: 36016086 PMCID: PMC9412526 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The challenge of vaccine hesitancy, a growing global concern in the last decade, has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for monitoring vaccine sentiments and early detection of vaccine hesitancy in a population recommended by the WHO calls for the availability of contextually relevant tools and measures. This scoping review covers a ten year-period from 2010–2019 which included the first nine years of the decade of vaccines and aims to give a broad overview of tools and measures, and present a summary of their nature, similarities, and differences. We conducted the review using the framework for scoping reviews by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) and reported it following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews’ guidelines. Of the 26 studies included, only one was conducted in the WHO African Region. Measures for routine childhood vaccines were found to be the most preponderant in the reviewed literature. The need for validated, contextually relevant tools in the WHO Africa Region is essential, and made more so by the scourge of the ongoing pandemic in which vaccination is critical for curtailment.
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