Herpes zoster vaccine coverage in Australia before and after introduction of a national vaccination program

Surveillance on the coverage of herpes zoster vaccine and post-marketing adverse events in Jiangsu province, China

To analyze the coverage rate of adult herpes zoster (HZ) vaccine and the incidence of Adverse event following immunization (AEFI) in Jiangsu province, China. The vaccination information of HZ vaccine in people aged 50 years and above in Jiangsu province in 2023 and the AEFI information of HZ vaccine from 2020 to 2023 were collected through the Jiangsu Province vaccination management information system and China AEFI information management system, and the vaccination rate and AEFI incidence of HZ vaccine were analyzed. The overall vaccination rate among individuals aged 50 years and above was merely 0.19%. About 20% of vaccinated individuals (12,821 people) received only the first dose, failing to complete the recommended two-dose regimen. A total of 43 and 217 cases of AEFIs following vaccination were reported after administration of the HZ vaccine during the periods of 2020-2021 and 2022-2023, respectively, resulting in reporting rates (RRs) of 240.7 and 201.2 per 100,000 doses, correspondingly. The majority of AEFIs following vaccination with HZ vaccines were common reactions, while rare reactions and coincidental events accounted for only 1.5% and 0.4% of cases, respectively. Over 55% of AEFIs occurred within 30 minutes post-vaccination , with fever, allergic eruptions, and drowsiness being the most reported systemic symptoms, and redness and induration being the main symptoms at the injection site. Despite the proven safety profile of the HZ vaccine, its coverage remains significantly low among individuals aged 50 years and above in Jiangsu Province, China as of 2023. The majority of AEFIs were mild and commonly observed. To enhance the comprehensiveness of post-marketing safety data, it is imperative to conduct further active surveillance studies.

Herpes Zoster Vaccination and Dementia Occurrence

Importance

Recent evidence from a quasi-experiment in Wales showed that herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination appears to prevent or delay dementia. Exploiting a similar quasi-experiment in Australia, this study investigated the effect of HZ vaccination on dementia occurrence in a different population and health system setting.

Objective

To determine the effect of HZ vaccination on the probability of receiving a new diagnosis of dementia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In Australia, starting November 1, 2016, live attenuated HZ vaccination was provided free to individuals aged 70 to 79 years through primary care clinicians. Thus, individuals whose 80th birthday was just a few weeks before November 1, 2016, never became eligible, whereas those whose 80th birthday was just a few weeks later were eligible. The key strength of this quasi-experiment is that one would not expect that these comparison groups who differ in age only minutely would, on average, differ in any health characteristics and behaviors. Primary health care records were analyzed with week-of-birth information from 65 general practices across Australia, using a regression discontinuity design.

Exposure

Eligibility for HZ vaccination based on date of birth.

Main Outcome

New diagnoses of dementia as recorded in primary care electronic health record data.

Results

In this sample of 101 219 patients, 52.7% were women and mean age was 62.6 years (SD, 9.3 years) as of November 1, 2016. Individuals born just before vs just after the date-of-birth eligibility threshold (November 2, 1936) for HZ vaccination were well balanced in their past preventive health services uptake and past chronic disease diagnoses. There was an abrupt increase of 16.4 percentage points (95% CI, 13.2-19.5; P < .001) in the probability of ever receiving HZ vaccination between patients born shortly before vs shortly after the date-of-birth eligibility threshold. The eligibility rules of the HZ vaccination program thus created comparison groups born just on either side of the date-of-birth eligibility threshold who were likely similar to each other, except for a large difference in their probability of receiving the intervention (HZ vaccination) of interest. This study found that eligibility for HZ vaccination (ie, being born shortly after vs shortly before November 2, 1936) decreased the probability of receiving a new dementia diagnosis during 7.4 years by 1.8 percentage points (95% CI, 0.4-3.3 percentage points; P = .01). Being eligible for HZ vaccination did not affect the probability of taking up other preventive health services (including other vaccinations) or the probability of receiving a diagnosis of common chronic conditions other than dementia.

Conclusions and Relevance

By taking advantage of a quasi-experiment and corroborating findings from Wales in a different population, this study provides evidence of the potential benefits of HZ vaccination for dementia that is more likely to be causal than that of more commonly conducted associational studies.

The barriers and facilitators of herpes zoster vaccination intentions of urban residents in China: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

In an aging society, herpes zoster (HZ) increases the health burden on infected patients. While quantitative studies point to a lack of willingness to accept the HZ vaccine in China, there is limited number of studies with in-depth qualitative analysis on HZ vaccination intention. This study undertakes a qualitive study method to identify the barriers and facilitators behind urban residents' HZ vaccination intention in three China cities, and contributes towards some targeted vaccination promotion suggestions to China and other LMICs with similar low coverage of HZ vaccination.

METHODS

We conducted 12 focus group discussions in three cities of China. In each discussion we recruited 3 to 6 participants aged 20 and older to catch the views on the HZ vaccine from residents with a wider age range. Participants were recruited by purposive sampling techniques. Guided by the health belief model, thematic analysis was used to group participants' HZ vaccine attitudes and to identify the barriers and facilitators to HZ vaccination.

RESULTS

The attitude of 59 participants participating in the focus group discussions showed a low-level acceptability of the HZ vaccine with only 27.1% (16/59) displaying a willingness to HZ vaccine uptake. The barriers to HZ vaccination included limited or incorrect conception on HZ prevalence, risk factors, susceptibility, symptoms, prevention and treatment methods, and the high cost of the HZ vaccine. Perceived vulnerability to HZ, fear of HZ pain and individuals' financial capacity were the strongest facilitators to HZ vaccination. In addition, it was found that advocacy of HZ vaccination by health professionals or government financial subsidies to HZ vaccination, could attenuate the above barriers to HZ vaccine uptake.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed a series of barriers and facilitators of HZ vaccination intention. We recommend HZ education and advocacy by health workers and government health officials to address the limited HZ knowledge and HZ misconceptions, and the government (or health insurance providers) to pay or subsidize the high costs of HZ vaccination to increase the HZ vaccination rate.

Latest vaccination trends against herpes zoster within two primary care settings in Crete, Greece: Rates and perception driven determinants

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to estimate the vaccination rate against herpes zoster (HZ) among public Primary Health Care (PHC) visitors eligible for vaccination based on the National guidelines. It also aims to explore the determinants associated with vaccination utilizing the health beliefs model (HBM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted between October and December 2022. The study took place in two public PHC units in the Heraklion prefecture, Crete, Greece. Eligible participants were visitors of the selected health units aged 60-75 years. The questionnaire elicited information on participants' demographic data, health habits, and chronic illnesses. The HBM tool adapted for HZ vaccination was also used.

RESULTS

Four hundred primary care attendees participated in the study. Most participants were women (58.5%), with a mean age of 68.1 (±4.9) years. Fifteen percent of participants reported a history HZ illness, while 147 (36.8%) reported being vaccinated against HZ. Older age and respiratory illnesses were associated with higher rates of vaccination. Perceived threat (OR: 1.057; 95% CI 1.022-1.093; p=0.001), perceived vaccination benefits (OR: 1.327; 95% CI 1.179-1.492; p<0.0001), and motivation for action (OR: 2.601; 95% CI 2.122-3.187; p<0.0001) increased the odds of receiving HZ vaccination. Conversely, perceived barriers such as safety concerns were found to decrease the odds of HZ vaccination (OR: 0.845; 95% CI 0.803-0.889; p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified specific determinants positively associated with HZ vaccination, highlighting the need to enhance the education of healthcare professionals in personalized patient counseling.

A cross-sectional study exploring the predictors of herpes zoster vaccination for people aged over 50 years old in Chaoyang district, Beijing

Background

Vaccination is an effective measure to prevent herpes zoster and its related complications. The coverage of herpes zoster vaccination is extremely low in China, and there is a notable lack of research investigating the barriers to promoting the herpes zoster vaccine in China.

Objectives

This study aims to survey the status of herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination and its associated factors among individuals aged 50 years and older, it also seeks to identify the barriers to vaccination and dissemination, thereby providing a scientific foundation for enhancing the vaccination rate of herpes zoster.

Methods

From March to August 2023, a questionnaire survey was conducted using a multi-stage sampling method on permanent residents aged 50 years and older in Chaoyang district of Beijing. Logistic regression analysis and decision tree models were employed to explore the predictors herpes zoster vaccination behavior.

Results

The herpes zoster vaccination coverage was 13.26% (403/3040), with 52.4% of respondents expressing willingness but not yet receiving the vaccine, while 34.31% (1,043/3040) were unwilling to be vaccinated. Among those willing but not vaccinated, 48.06% cited high cost as the reason for abstaining from vaccination. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that certain factors were associated with lower vaccination coverage, including being female, having a low frequency of influenza episodes (less than twice per year), and having chronic diseases. On the other hand, higher vaccination coverage was observed among individuals whose spouses had a master's degree or higher, those awarded that a history of chickenpox may lead to potential herpes zoster infection, those who were knowledgeable about the herpes zoster vaccine, and those received recommendations from medical staff. Additionally, the decision tree model confirmed that recommendations from medical staff had the most significant impact on vaccination.

Conclusion

The survey reveals a generally low vaccination coverage of the herpes zoster vaccine among residents aged over 50 in this area. It is recommended to enhance the role of medical staff in advocating for vaccination, conduct community-based educational initiatives that focus on varicella, herpes zoster, and related knowledge, and alleviate the financial burden to improve the herpes zoster vaccination coverage.

Investigating behaviours and attitudes regarding recommended vaccination in adults 50 years and above in Australia

Background Vaccination is important for adults to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases. In Australia, many vaccines are recommended and funded under the Australian National Immunisation Program. However, a number of vaccines are recommended for adults but not funded. This study aimed to explore factors impacting uptake of recommended vaccines in adults aged ≥50years in Australia. Methods An online cross-sectional survey was conducted from the general population aged ≥50years. The survey was distributed via a market research company using a convenience sample. Data were analysed descriptively, and logistic regression was used to investigate associations between participant characteristics and vaccine uptake. Results A total of 1012 individuals completed the survey. The majority (67.4%) of participants reported it was important for adults to receive recommended vaccines. More than half (59.6%) felt that vaccination was more important for children. Over 60% of participants reported they knew the vaccines that they should receive. The primary reason reported for not receiving a vaccine was, 'I do not believe it is necessary'. Being aged ≥66years was significantly associated with uptake of influenza, pertussis, herpes zoster, and pneumococcal vaccines. Being female was associated with higher uptake for most vaccines, except for pneumococcal vaccine, where no significant association was found. Conclusions The importance of vaccination and risks associated with lack of vaccination need to be highlighted to this population. Recommendations from healthcare professionals continue to be one of the most important facilitators for uptake. Overall, adults reported they are unlikely to pay for recommended vaccines, making increasing uptake of these vaccines difficult.

Factors Related to, and Effective Interventions for, Vaccination Uptake Among Older Adults in Two Asia-Pacific Countries: A Rapid Review

This rapid review aimed to present a comprehensive overview of barriers, facilitators, and effective interventions that promote vaccination uptake by older adults in the Asia-Pacific region. Rapid review methodology was applied, using two databases (PubMed, Embase). Articles were included if studies were conducted in Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines; included human population ≥50 years of age, and was published from 2016 to August 2022. Related articles were not found from Indonesia and Philippines. A total of 23 articles met the inclusion criteria, with 19 reporting on barriers and facilitators, whereas, four articles reported effective interventions to promote vaccination uptake. Among the 19 studies that identified barriers and facilitators to vaccination uptake, the more common factors were social influences (n = 8/19), perceived benefits of vaccine (n = 7/19), and perceived vaccine safety (n = 6/19). Interventions that focused on supporting clinicians were found to be effective in leading them to recommend vaccinations among older adults, such as creating awareness on the low baseline vaccination rates among older adults, provision of structured health assessment, and nurse reminders. More studies are needed to ascertain the barriers and facilitators to uptake, as well as to identify effective interventions influencing vaccine uptake among older adults in the Asia-Pacific region.

Herpes zoster vaccination and new diagnoses of dementia: A quasi-randomized study in Australia

Increasing evidence suggests that neurotropic herpesviruses could play a role in the development of dementia, possibly through a neuroinflammatory process. Herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination has been reported to lead to a reduced probability of being diagnosed with dementia in several correlational studies and in a prior analysis by our team in Wales. This present study constitutes the first investigation to use a quasi-randomized study design in an electronic health record dataset from a large and diverse nation (Australia) to aim to determine the effect of HZ vaccination on dementia. In Australia, starting on November 1 2016, live-attenuated HZ vaccination was provided for free to individuals aged 70 to 79 years of age through primary care providers. Thus, those whose 80th birthday was just a few days prior to November 1 2016 never became eligible, whereas those whose 80th birthday was just a few days later were eligible. The key advantage of our approach is that one would not expect that these population groups who differ in their age by only a minute degree would, on average, differ in any of their health characteristics and behaviors. We used detailed primary healthcare records with week-of-birth information from 65 general practices across Australia. We analyzed our data using a regression discontinuity approach. Our sample consisted of 101,219 patients. As expected, patients born just before versus shortly after the date-of-birth eligibility threshold (November 2 1936) for HZ vaccination were well-balanced in their past preventive health services uptake and chronic disease diagnoses. There was an abrupt increase of 15.7 (95% CI: [12.2 - 19.3], p < 0.001) percentage points in the probability of ever receiving HZ vaccination between patients born shortly before versus shortly after the eligibility threshold. The eligibility rules of the HZ vaccination program, thus, created comparison groups just on either side of the date-of-birth eligibility threshold who were similar to each other, except for a large difference in their probability of receiving the intervention (HZ vaccination) of interest. Eligibility for HZ vaccination (i.e., being born shortly before versus shortly after November 2 1936) decreased the probability of receiving a new dementia diagnosis over 7.4 years by 2.0 percentage points (95% CI: [0.3 - 3.7], p = 0.021). Being eligible for HZ vaccination did not affect the probability of taking up other preventive health services (including other vaccinations), nor the probability of being diagnosed with other common chronic conditions than dementia. This study provides important evidence on the potential benefits of HZ vaccination for dementia because its quasi-randomized design allows for conclusions that are more likely to be causal than those of the existing associational evidence.

Exploring Perceptions and Practices Regarding Adult Vaccination against Seasonal Influenza, Tetanus, Pneumococcal Disease, Herpes Zoster and COVID-19: A Mixed-Methods Study in Greece

We aimed to document vaccination coverage for five vaccines, predictors of each vaccine's uptake and attitudes regarding adult vaccination. Adults visiting four pharmacies were randomly invited to participate during summer 2022. Among 395 participants (mean age 51.2 years, range 19-96), vaccination rates were 78.1% for influenza and 25.8% for herpes zoster (≥60 years old), 64.3% for pneumococcal disease (≥65 years old), 33.1% for tetanus, while 11.4% had received two and 74.8% ≥3 COVID-19 vaccine doses. Half of participants (50.1%) voiced some degree of hesitancy, and 1.3% were refusers. The strongest predictor of each vaccine's uptake was doctor's recommendation (OR range 11.33-37.66, p < 0.001) and pharmacist's recommendation (4.01-19.52, p < 0.05), except for the COVID-19 vaccine, where the Attitude Towards Adult VACcination (ATAVAC) value of adult vaccination subscale's score was the only predictor (OR: 5.75, p < 0.001). Regarding insufficient coverage, thematic content analysis revealed seven main themes. Insufficient knowledge, the absence of health professionals' recommendation, perception of low susceptibility to disease, negligence and dispute of vaccine effectiveness were universal themes, whereas safety concerns and distrust in authorities were reported solely for COVID-19 vaccination. Designing public interventions aiming to increase trust in adult vaccination is essential in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Health professionals' role in recommending strongly adult vaccination is crucial.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Survey of Recombinant Zoster Vaccine among Cardiologists and Cardiac Nurses in Italy

Background and Objectives: Cardiac patients are particularly at risk of herpes zoster (HZ), which is associated with a higher risk of major cardiovascular events. This research aimed to analyze the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) among cardiac healthcare professionals (HPs). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a cardiological hospital in Italy. Multivariate regression models were built to identify factors associated with the outcomes of interest. Results: The response rate was 78.2% (154/197). Overall, age > 50 years and immunosuppression were recognized as risk factors for HZ by 38.3% and 75.3% of respondents, respectively. Regarding RZV, 29.1% of the HPs correctly responded about its schedule and 57.6% about the possibility of administration in immunocompromised individuals. This knowledge was significantly higher in HPs with a higher educational level (odds ratio (OR) = 4.42; 95%CI 1.70-11.47), in those who knew that HZ could cause postherpetic neuralgia (OR = 2.56; 95%CI 1.05-6.25) or major cardiovascular events (OR = 4.23; 95%CI 1.50-11.91), in those who had participated in professional updates on vaccinations (OR = 3.86; 95%CI 1.51-9.87) and in those who stated the need for further information about the RZV (OR = 6.43; 95%CI 1.42-29.98). Younger HPs (coefficient (β) = -0.02; 95%CI -0.04--0.01), those with a positive attitude toward RZV safety (β = 2.92; 95%CI 2.49-3.36) and those who had previously cared for patients with HZ (β = 0.45; 95%CI 0.03-0.88) reported a more positive attitude toward RZV effectiveness. The practice of recommending vaccination was more prevalent in younger HPs (OR = 0.94; 95%CI 0.89-0.99), in those who had a master's degree or higher education (OR = 7.21; 95%CI 1.44-36.08), in those with more positive attitudes toward RZV effectiveness (OR = 7.17; 95%CI 1.71-30.03) and in HPs who had already recommended the vaccine to patients in the past (OR = 4.03; 95%CI 1.08-14.96). Conclusions: Despite being a single-center study, our research brings attention to factors that currently impact cardiac HPs' approaches to RZV. The findings indicate potential measures to enhance HPs' awareness and practices, ultimately aiming to improve vaccination adherence and reduce the burden associated with HZ.

Herpes Zoster Vaccine Uptake and Active Campaign Impact, a Multicenter Retrospective Study in Italy

The Herpes Zoster (HZ) vaccination has proven both safe and effective in alleviating conditions related to HZ, leading to significant cost savings in national healthcare and social systems. In Italy, it is recommended and provided free of charge to individuals aged 65 and older. To achieve broad vaccination coverage, alongside ordinary immunization campaigns, active and catch-up campaigns were implemented. This retrospective observational study aimed to observe the vaccination coverage achieved in the Romagna Local Health Authority (LHA) during the 2023 active campaign, with a secondary goal of assessing the impact of the 2022 catch-up campaign and the 2023 active campaign compared to ordinary campaigns. As of 3 July 2023, an overall vaccine uptake of 13.5% was achieved among individuals born in 1958, with variations among the four LHA centers ranging from 10.2% to 17.7%. Catch-up and active campaigns together contributed to nearly half of the achieved coverage in Center No. 1 and a quarter in Center No. 2. Notably, individuals born in 1957, not included in the Center No. 2 catch-up campaign, reached significantly lower vaccination coverage compared to other cohorts and centers. Analyzing the use of text messages for active campaigns, it was observed that cohort groups did not show substantial differences in text-message utilization for warnings. However, having relatives who had experienced HZ-related symptoms significantly reduced the reliance on text messages as warnings. These results highlighted how catch-up and active campaigns effectively increased vaccine coverage. Nevertheless, differences in uptake among different centers within the same LHA and the limited contribution of other information sources compared to text messages suggest the necessity of designing campaigns involving all available channels and stakeholders to maximize vaccine uptake.

Vaccination coverage and predictors of influenza, pneumococcal, herpes zoster, tetanus, measles, and hepatitis B vaccine uptake among adults in Greece

OBJECTIVES

Insufficient adult vaccination coverage rates remain an international challenge. This nationwide study aimed at exploring vaccination coverage and predictors of influenza, pneumococcal, herpes zoster, tetanus, measles, and hepatitis B vaccine uptake, following the recommendations of the National Immunization Program for adults.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a multicenter, mixed-methods study conducted at 23 primary care units in six different regions of Greece.

METHODS

A pretested questionnaire was administered to three randomly selected adults who visited each practice daily for 30 consecutive working days.

RESULTS

Among the 1571 participants, vaccination coverage for influenza in the high-risk groups was 55%, 36% for pneumococcal disease, 12% for herpes zoster (HZ), 21% for tetanus, 33% for measles, and 11% for hepatitis B. Perception of low susceptibility to disease due to good health status, concerns about side-effects and vaccines' efficacy, and mistrust in pharmaceutical companies were among common factors associated with the vaccines uptake. The strongest factor associated with the participants' vaccination status was their doctor's recommendation (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] influenza: 6.06 [4.52-8.14], pneumococcal disease: 15.73 [10.98-22.52], HZ: 17.01 [9.05-31.96], tetanus: 23.93 [16.20-35.35], measles: 33.47 [16.85-66.47], and hepatitis B: 73.92 [17.47-312.74]). Being well-informed about each vaccine was also a predictor of its uptake.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaccination coverage was suboptimal and especially low in tetanus, HZ, and hepatitis B immunization. Person-centered approach, with provision of appropriate information about vaccines' safety and efficacy, responding to each patient's needs, as well as physicians' strong recommendation for vaccination are considered crucial to advocate against the spread of vaccine misinformation and increase vaccination coverage.

Willingness to Vaccinate Against Herpes Zoster and Its Associated Factors Across WHO Regions: Global Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

A life-course immunization approach would enhance the quality of life across all age groups and improve societal well-being. The herpes zoster (HZ) vaccine is highly recommended for older adults to prevent HZ infection and related complications. The proportions of willingness to receive the HZ vaccine varies across countries, and various kinds of factors, including sociodemographics and individual perceptions, influence the willingness to vaccinate.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to estimate the HZ vaccination willingness rate and identify factors associated with vaccine uptake willingness across all World Health Organization (WHO) regions.

METHODS

A global systematic search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for all papers related to the HZ vaccine published until June 20, 2022. Study characteristics were extracted for each included study. Using double arcsine transformation, vaccination willingness rates with 95% CIs were pooled and reported. The willingness rate and associated factors were analyzed by geographical context. Associated factors were also summarized based on Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs.

RESULTS

Of the 26,942 identified records, 13 (0.05%) papers were included, covering 14,066 individuals from 8 countries in 4 WHO regions (Eastern Mediterranean Region, European Region, Region of the Americas, and Western Pacific Region). The pooled vaccination willingness rate was 55.74% (95% CI 40.85%-70.13%). Of adults aged ≥50 years, 56.06% were willing to receive the HZ vaccine. After receiving health care workers' (HCWs) recommendations, 75.19% of individuals were willing to get the HZ vaccine; without HCWs' recommendations, the willingness rate was only 49.39%. The willingness rate was more than 70% in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and approximately 55% in the Western Pacific Region. The willingness rate was the highest in the United Arab Emirates and the lowest in China and the United Kingdom. The perception of HZ severity and susceptibility was positively associated with vaccination willingness. The perceived barriers to vaccination willingness (main reasons for unwillingness) included low trust in the effectiveness of the HZ vaccine, concerns about safety, financial concerns, and being unaware of the HZ vaccine's availability. Older individuals, those having lower education, or those having lower income levels were less likely to willing to be vaccinated.

CONCLUSIONS

Only 1 in 2 individuals showed a willingness to be vaccinated against HZ. The willingness rate was the highest in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Our findings show the critical role HCWs play in promoting HZ vaccination. Monitoring HZ vaccination willingness is necessary to inform public health decision-making. These findings provide critical insights for designing future life-course immunization programs.

Disseminated varicella zoster virus infection following live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine: descriptive analysis of reports to Australia's spontaneous vaccine pharmacovigilance system, 2016-2020

OBJECTIVES

To examine the reported incidence and features of disseminated varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection following live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine live (ZVL: Zostavax, Merck) in immunocompromised people in Australia.

DESIGN AND SETTING

ZVL was funded in 2016 in Australia for people aged 70 years, with a catch-up programme for those 71-79 years. From 2016 to 2020, three deaths due to disseminated vaccine-strain VZV infection occurred following inadvertent ZVL administration in individuals with varying levels of immunocompromise. This descriptive study examined 4 years of national surveillance data reported to the Therapeutic Goods Administration's Adverse Event Monitoring System (AEMS). Denominator data for rates were from doses recorded in the Australian Immunisation Register.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals vaccinated between 1 November 2016 and 31 December 2020 who experienced adverse event(s) following immunisation (AEFI) after ZVL recorded in the AEMS.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Rates and outcomes of confirmed (Oka strain positive) or probable disseminated VZV infection, and inadvertent administration of ZVL in immunocompromised individuals.

RESULTS

854 AEFI were reported from 1 089 966 doses of ZVL administered (78.4 per 100 000 doses). Of those, 14 were classified as confirmed (n=6, 0.55 per 100 000) or probable (n=8) disseminated VZV infection. The confirmed cases were all hospitalised, and most (5/6) were immunocompromised; three cases died. Thirty-seven individuals were reported as vaccinated despite a contraindication due to immunocompromise (3.4 per 100 000), with 12/37 (32%) hospitalised.

CONCLUSIONS

Disseminated VZV is potentially life-threatening and occurs mostly in those with severe immunocompromise. Inadvertent administration of ZVL to immunocompromised individuals has occurred despite initial provider guidance and education. Multiple additional strategies to assist providers to identify contraindications have been implemented to prevent adverse outcomes.

Uptake of influenza, pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccines among people with heart failure and atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of hospitalisation and death globally. Infections exacerbate cardiovascular events among cardiac patients, contributing to all-cause mortality. Vaccination is a cheap and effective intervention that can prevent infection. In Australia, influenza, pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccines are recommended and funded for high-risk adults such as cardiac patients. There is high prevalence of high-risk adults in Western Sydney.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigates the uptake of influenza, pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccines in patients admitted with heart failure and atrial fibrillation in a tertiary hospital in Western Sydney and factors associated with the uptake of the vaccines.

METHODS

Consecutive patients' hospitalised between 2014 and 2018 with heart failure or atrial fibrillation as principal diagnoses were identified. Information on patients' social demographic, clinical and vaccination status was collected and described using descriptive analysis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with the uptake of the vaccines.

RESULTS

Low uptake for pneumococcal (40-45 %) and herpes zoster (15 %) vaccines were found. Prevalence of influenza vaccination was lower among participants younger than 65 (51-72 %) than in older ones (78-96 %). Australia-born participants were more likely to receive pneumococcal vaccine than those born overseas (OR 2.02, 95 % CI 1.05-3.89). Participants 65 years or older and those with comorbidities such as hypertension, COPD and chronic renal impairment were more likely to receive the vaccines.

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary strategies are needed to improve access to vaccination, community knowledge, community engagement, and healthcare provider support to provide appropriate care to migrants and younger cardiac patients and reduce morbidity and mortality in this high-risk group.

Predictors of herpes zoster vaccination among Australian adults aged 65 and over

OBJECTIVE(S)

To estimate HZ vaccine coverage in Australia among older Australians and to identify potential barriers to vaccination.

DESIGN

Analysis of data from three cross-sectional surveys administered online between 2019 and 2020.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Adults aged 65 and over residing in Australia.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Self-reported herpes zoster vaccination.

RESULTS

Among the 744 adults aged 65 and over in this sample, 32% reported being vaccinated for HZ, including 23% of participants aged 65-74, 55% of participants aged 75-84, and 0% for participants aged 85 and above. Those who are vaccinated with other immunisations are more likely to have received HZ vaccine, including seasonal influenza (OR = 4.41, 95 % CI: 2.44-7.98) and pneumococcal vaccines (OR = 4.43, 95 % CI: 2.92 - 6.75). Participants with a history of certain conditions, such as stroke (OR = 2.26, 95 % CI: 1.13-4.49), were more likely to be vaccinated against HZ. Participants that reported smoking tobacco daily were less likely to be vaccinated against HZ (OR = 0.48, 95 % CI: 0.26-0.89). Participants were less likely to be vaccinated against HZ if they preferred to develop immunity 'naturally' (OR = 0.29, 95 % CI: 0.15 - 0.57) or expressed distrust of vaccines (OR = 0.34, 95 % CI: 0.13-0.91).

CONCLUSION(S)

Further research is required to understand the barriers to HZ vaccine uptake. Increasing the funding eligibility for those who are at risk of complications from shingles, or lowering the age of eligibility, may increase vaccine coverage.

The Pendulum Has Swung: How Do We Ensure a Life Course Approach to Immunisation in Australia?

Rather than concentrating primarily on children and adolescents, there has been a shift in the discourse around immunisation to encompass a whole-of-life approach. Despite this acknowledgement and ongoing high burdens of vaccine preventable diseases in adults, coverage for some adult risk groups remains sub-optimal. This study aimed to explore key informant's and stakeholder's perceptions of factors impacting provision of immunisation programs for Australian adults and to identify strategies to promote acceptance and uptake. Semi-structured telephone interviews were undertaken with people involved in adult immunisation program delivery, advocacy, policy or research between September 2020 and June 2021. Transcripts were inductively analysed, with the resulting themes categorised into the five influences on vaccination gaps that have informed program planning in other countries: Access, Affordability, Awareness, Acceptance and Activation. Participants spoke of improvements in the provision of vaccines to adults, however, ongoing challenges persisted. Participants agreed that the focus or emphasis of policies and the promotion/communication strategies has been on childhood vaccination in Australia, however there is a sense that the "pendulum has swung." These included understanding of eligibility amongst the Australian population and the reluctance of some health providers to dedicate time to exploring immunisation needs with adult patients. In comparison to the childhood vaccination program, there has been a lack of data available on coverage for adult vaccines on the national immunisation program. This has contributed to the ongoing challenges of identifying and promoting certain vaccines. At a government level, questions were raised about why the Australian government has never set an aspirational target for adult vaccination (i.e., influenza or pneumococcal) coverage. While significant improvements have been made in adult immunisation uptake, there are still gaps across the program. While the system remains under stress because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is not appropriate to implement any additional programs. There needs to be strong commitment to establish the value of adult vaccination in the eyes of community members, policy makers and healthcare professionals. Having a national adult immunisation strategic plan would help advance action.

Impact of a structured older persons health assessment on herpes zoster vaccine uptake in Australian primary care

Vaccine uptake in adult immunisation programs is often suboptimal. We aimed to assess the impact of the structured older persons health assessment (health assessment) on herpes zoster (zoster) vaccine uptake in Australia. We used national general practice electronic medical records (MedicineInsight) of encounters with patients aged 75-79 years because these patients were age-eligible for both free zoster vaccines and health assessments in the two years following the addition of zoster vaccine to the national immunisation program (Nov 2016-Dec 2018). Due to repeated encounters, we used generalized estimating equations with each patient treated as a clustering variable to analyse the comparison of rates of zoster vaccine administration during encounters where a health assessment was provided versus encounters where the health assessment was not provided. In analyses there were 31,876 patients with a total of 266,204 eligible general practice encounters. Of the 5018 encounters where a health assessment was provided, 592 zoster vaccinations also occurred on the same day (118.0/1000 encounters); for the 261,186 encounters where no health assessment was provided, 9226 zoster vaccinations occurred (35.3/1000 encounters). Zoster vaccine was more likely to be administered during a general practice encounter with a health assessment compared to encounters without one (adjusted odds ratio 2.99; 95% CI: 2.76-3.23). In conclusion, the structured older persons health assessment, which acts as both an incentive and a reminder for healthcare providers to recommend vaccinations in adults improves uptake of zoster vaccine in eligible adults. Such interventions may have a role in improving vaccine uptake among older adults.

Impact of a National Immunisation Program on herpes zoster incidence in Australia

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the impact of the National Herpes Zoster (zoster) Immunisation Program in Australia on zoster incidence.

METHODS

Ecological analysis of zoster incidence related to timing of implementation of the national program in vaccine-targeted (70-79 years) and non-targeted age groups (60-69 and 80-89 years) during January 2013-December 2018 was estimated using interrupted time-series analyses.

RESULTS

Prior to program commencement (Jan 2013-Oct 2016) in patients aged 60-69, 70-79 and 80-89 years, incidence was mostly stable averaging respectively 7.2, 9.6 and 10.8 per 1000 person-years. In the two years following program commencement, incidence fell steadily in those aged 70-79 years, with an estimated decrease of 2.25 (95% CI: 1.34, 3.17) per 1000 person-years per year, with women having a greater decrease than men (2.83 versus 1.68, p-interaction<0.01). In the two non-vaccine-program-targeted groups there was no evidence of reduction in zoster incidence: 60-69 years, 0.46 (95% CI: -0.46, 1.38) and 80-89 years, 0.11 (95% CI: -1.64, 1.87).

CONCLUSIONS

Two years after implementation, an estimated 7000 zoster cases were prevented through the national program. With known waning vaccine efficacy, continued surveillance is needed to ensure these early reductions in incidence are sustained.

Use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and the subsequent risk of herpes zoster in older adults

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between DMARD use and subsequent risk of herpes zoster in a large, heterogeneous and prospective population-based cohort.

METHODS

Using data from a cohort of adults (45 and Up Study) recruited between 2006 and 2009 and linked to pharmaceutical, hospital and death data (2004-2015), the effect of DMARD use on zoster risk was analysed using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities and corticosteroid use.

RESULTS

Among 254 065 eligible participants, over 1 826 311 person-years follow-up, there were 6295 new DMARD users and 17 024 incident herpes zoster events. Compared with non-users, the risk of zoster was higher in those who used biologic (b)DMARDs, either alone or in combination with conventional synthetic (cs)DMARDs than in those who only used csDMARDs (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.53 [95% CI: 2.03, 3.16]) for bDMARDs vs 1.48 [95% CI: 1.33, 1.66] for csDMARDs, P-heterogeneity < 0.001; reference: non-users). Among users of csDMARDs, compared with non-users, zoster risks were highest in those using exclusively cyclophosphamide (aHR 2.69 [95% CI: 1.89, 3.83]), more moderate in those using azathioprine (aHR 1.57 [95% CI: 1.07, 2.30]) and hydroxychloroquine (aHR 1.43 [95%CI: 1.11, 1.83]) and not elevated in users of methotrexate (aHR 1.24 [95% CI: 0.98, 1.57]), sulfasalazine (aHR 1.00 [95% CI: 0.71, 1.42]) and leflunomide (aHR 0.41 [95% CI: 0.06, 2.88]).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of zoster was high among bDMARD and cyclophosphamide users. Also, the risk was increased in those using hydroxychloroquine alone and in combination with methotrexate but not methotrexate alone. Preventative strategies such as zoster vaccination or antiviral therapies should be considered in these populations if not contraindicated.

Corticosteroid Use and Risk of Herpes Zoster in a Population-Based Cohort

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between corticosteroid use and herpes zoster risk.

METHODS

With data from a large cohort of adults (the 45 and Up Study) recruited between 2006 and 2009 and linked to health data sets, the effect of corticosteroid use on zoster risk was analyzed by Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for age, sex, and other characteristics.

RESULTS

During 602,152 person-years (median, 7.36 years) of follow-up, there were 20,048 new systemic corticosteroid users and 6294 incident herpes zoster events among 94,677 participants (zoster incidence, 11.0 per 1000 person-years). Compared with nonusers, the risk of zoster was 59% higher in those using systemic corticosteroids (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.59; 95% CI, 1.48 to 1.71) and greater with higher cumulative doses: aHR of 1.32 (95% CI, 1.17 to 1.48), 1.74 (95% CI, 1.55 to 1.95), and 1.80 (95% CI, 1.61 to 2.02) for use of less than 500 mg, 500 mg to less than 1000 mg, and 1000 mg or more prednisolone equivalents, respectively (P value for trend, <.001). Compared with nonusers, zoster risk increased significantly (aHR, 6.00; 95% CI, 4.85 to 7.42) in the month after a single prescription of systemic corticosteroids and returned to levels similar to those in nonusers by the third month after dispensing (aHR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.49 to 1.69).

CONCLUSION

Practitioners should be alert to the increased risk of zoster among patients taking systemic corticosteroids. Given the significant morbidity from zoster, particularly in older adults, these findings support judicious prescribing of corticosteroids, including using as low a dose and as short a course as possible.

Gap between willingness and behavior in the vaccination against influenza, pneumonia, and herpes zoster among Chinese aged 50-69 years

BACKGROUND

Vaccination uptake of influenza vaccine, 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) and herpes zoster vaccine (HZV) remains low among Chinese aged 50-69 years, posing a significant public health concern. This study's aim is to determine the gap between the vaccination willingness and uptake.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a face-to-face questionnaire survey among the persons aged 50-69 years in 13 communities in Shanghai in November-December 2020 to measure vaccination willingness, vaccine price sensitivity, vaccination service accessibility, and vaccine hesitancy. Then, we explored the factors influencing the vaccination uptake using a structural equation model.

RESULTS

Vaccination willingness was 70.5% (self-paid influenza vaccine), 79.4% (free PPV23 for local persons), 54.7% (self-paid PPV23 for non-local persons), and 16.6% (self-paid HZV); however, actual uptake was 10.8% (influenza vaccine), 11.0% (free PPV23), and 2.5% (self-paid PPV23). Moreover, vaccination uptake was strongly influenced by service accessibility (β = 0.941), followed by willingness (β = 0.201), price sensitivity (β = -0.188), and medical history of vaccine-preventable diseases and underlying diseases (β = 0.176). Related knowledge (β = 0.017) and vaccine hesitancy (β = -0.003) affected the uptake indirectly.

CONCLUSION

There is a gap between the vaccination willingness and uptake in Chinese elderly. It warrants specific measures, including increasing service accessibility and reforming payment mechanism, to bridge the gap.

Cumulative annual coverage of meningococcal B vaccination in Australian general practice for three at-risk groups, 2014 to 2019

Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (MenB) is the most common cause of meningococcal disease in adolescents and young adults. In Australia, MenB vaccination has been available through private prescription since 2014 and has been recommended for at-risk groups including adolescents, young adults who smoke and people medically at risk. For each of these at-risk groups, we estimated cumulative annual coverage of MenB vaccination between 2014 and 2019. We also evaluated factors associated with vaccination coverage in 2019. Our analyses used electronic health records in the national MedicineInsight database for people regularly attending general practices. Cumulative vaccination coverage increased among the at-risk groups between 2014 and 2019: from 0.09% to 1.65% for adolescents, from 0.01% to 0.15% for young adults who smoke, and from 0.35% to 12.09% for people medically at risk. However, vaccination coverage in 2019 remained very low across these groups. Data sparsity prevented the evaluation of factors associated with vaccination coverage for smokers. We observed variation in the relative risk of being vaccinated by age, sex, socioeconomic and clinical factors for adolescents and people medically at risk. Still, the absolute magnitude of coverage was low across all subgroups examined, and indicates a need for strategies to increase vaccination uptake among at-risk groups irrespective of patient and practice characteristics. Our study provides baseline data for monitoring menB vaccination uptake among recommended groups in light of limited national data, especially for medically at-risk groups.

Minimising missed opportunities to promote and deliver immunization services to middle and older age adults: Can hospital-based programs be a solution?

BACKGROUND

There has been a recent recognized shift towards a whole-of-life or life-course approach to immunisation. However, coverage amongst at-risk adults for recommended vaccines continues to be suboptimal. This study examined the perceptions of middle and older aged Australian adults towards hospital-based immunization programs and their previous exposures to receiving vaccines via tertiary care.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with Australian adults 45 years and older in late 2019 to capture influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake, exposure to hospital-based immunization programs, missed opportunities to vaccinate and receptiveness towards the promotion and/or delivery of vaccines in the hospital setting.

RESULTS

Only 13 respondents reported receiving a vaccine at hospital, yet 72.2% (931/1292) indicated that they were willing to be vaccinated in that setting. Amongst those who attended hospital during 2019 and were eligible for vaccination, 57.2% and 28.3% of respondents were not immunized for pneumococcal and influenza, respectively. Missed opportunities for both vaccines were significantly higher amongst those at low-risk for influenza (≤65 years (low-risk): 52.9%, ≤65 years (high-risk): 18.3%, >65 years: 15.1%; p < 0.001) and pneumococcal (≤65 years (low-risk): 79.1%, ≤65 years (high-risk): 52.4%, >65 years: 44%; p < 0.001). Among those with a missed opportunity for hospital-based vaccination, the most common reason for not getting immunized was a lack of recommendation. Most (86.4%) reported that their general practitioner was the person or group they trusted most to receive vaccine information from.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this Australian study support international work that shows very low rates of opportunistic vaccination in hospitals despite national recommendations to vaccinate prior to discharge. Considering the need for high levels of uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine, hospitals may need to be considered to opportunistically capture those not accessing the vaccine in other settings.

Effectiveness of the live-attenuated herpes zoster vaccine 2 years after its introduction in Australia

BACKGROUND

The Australian National Herpes Zoster Immunisation Program commenced in November 2016 for people aged 70-79 years old in Australia but vaccine effectiveness (VE) in this setting has not previously been assessed.

METHODS

We extracted records from two cohorts of patients aged 70-79 years in 2017 and 2018 respectively who were regular attenders in a nationwide general practice dataset, MedicineInsight. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate VE. Models were adjusted for potential confounders including age, sex, and other covariates. Analyses were also stratified by sex, presence of comorbid conditions and number of general practitioner (GP) visits in the previous year.

RESULTS

The 2017 cohort included 40,275 regular attenders and the 2018 cohort 41,735. Both cohorts had a mean age of 73.9 years and 52% were women. In 2017, among vaccinated people, over 9,688 person-years of follow-up, 35 cases of zoster were diagnosed giving an incidence of 3.6 per 1000 person-years compared to 8.7 per 1000 person-years (264 cases/30,317 person-years) among unvaccinated people. For 2018, among vaccinated people there were 66 incident zoster cases over 16,716 person-years giving an incidence of 3.9 per 1000 person-years compared to 6.3 per 1000 person-years (156 cases/24,782 person-years) among the unvaccinated. Overall, in the first year of the program, when the average time since vaccination was about 8 months, VE was 63.5% (95% CI: 47.5, 74.6) but this fell to 48.2% (95% CI: 30.0, 61.7) in the second year when the average time since vaccination was about 18 months. We found no difference in VE across age, sex, presence of comorbid conditions, and prior GP visit frequency (P-interaction > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

VE was consistent with that estimated in other countries and international settings. However, our findings suggest waning effectiveness after the first year of the program. Further program evaluation is necessary.

Australia's national zoster vaccination program: Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of general practitioners

Objectives

To assess knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of Australian general practitioners (GPs) regarding herpes zoster vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) from 2016 for adults aged 70-79 years.

Design, setting, participants

National cross-sectional online survey of GPs, October-November 2017.

Outcome measures

Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour regarding zoster vaccination, including challenges experienced and recommendations for improvement.

Results

Of the 1026 GPs who responded (response rate 7.9%), 98.5% were aware that zoster vaccine is NIP-funded for adults aged 70-79 years and 85.4% that it is recommended for age 60-69 years; however, 51.3% incorrectly thought it is routinely recommended for age 50-59 years. A minority (4.6%) incorrectly believed that being immunocompromised is not a contraindication to zoster vaccination and 16.0% that it cannot be co-administered with influenza or pneumococcal vaccine. Almost half (48.9%) rarely or never reported zoster vaccination data to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR). Challenges perceived included lack of adequate information on vaccine contraindications; efficacy and safety concerns; and difficulty applying age criteria for NIP eligibility in general practice. Respondents indicated a desire for program expansion to include younger and older adult age groups.

Conclusion

This Australian GP survey, conducted one year after the introduction of the national zoster vaccination program, identified some knowledge gaps. A repeat survey of GPs is warranted to determine whether these issues persist, particularly regarding contraindication to vaccination for immunocompromised individuals. We encourage all GPs to offer zoster vaccination in line with current Australian evidence-based guidelines, particularly for the NIP-funded 70-79 years cohort; ensuring compliance with relevant contraindications; and reporting to AIR.

Risk of recurrent herpes zoster in a population-based cohort study of older adults

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on zoster recurrence.

OBJECTIVE

To examine in detail zoster recurrence in a population-based cohort.

METHODS

Using data from a large cohort (The 45 and Up Study) with linked medical data (2004-2015), the incidences of first and recurrent zoster were examined by using survival analysis methods.

RESULTS

Over 1,846,572 person-years of follow-up, of 17,413 participants who had a first zoster episode (incidence, 9.43 per 1000 person-years; 95% confidence interval, 9.29-9.57), 675 (3.9%) experienced a recurrence. The mean time between first and recurrent zoster was 2 years for those aged 45-54 years and 3 years for those aged 55 years and older. Among those with a first zoster, the incidence of recurrence was 11.05 (95% confidence interval, 10.24-11.91) per 1000 person-years, and higher recurrence incidence occurred in women compared to men, in younger compared to older participants, and in immunosuppressed compared to nonimmunosuppressed participants. Recurrence appeared lower in the 12 months after zoster onset but then remained consistent at approximately 12.00 per 1000 person-years in the following 8 years.

LIMITATIONS

Recurrence may be underestimated because of the use of administrative data for case ascertainment. Potential misclassification of nonimmunosuppressed participants.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support the vaccination of people who have already experienced zoster and underpin the need for additional studies on immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy in these populations.