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Attwell K, Roberts L, Rizzi M. From speculative to real: community attitudes towards government COVID-19 vaccine mandates in Western Australia from May 2021 to April 2022. HEALTH ECONOMICS, POLICY, AND LAW 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38766815 DOI: 10.1017/s1744133124000069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Many governments employed mandates for COVID-19 vaccines, imposing consequences upon unvaccinated people. Attitudes towards these policies have generally been positive, but little is known about how discourses around them changed as the characteristics of the disease and the vaccinations evolved. Western Australia (WA) employed sweeping COVID-19 vaccine mandates for employment and public spaces whilst the state was closed off from the rest of the country and world, and mostly with no COVID-19 in the community. This article analyses WA public attitudes during the mandate policy lifecycle from speculative to real. Qualitative interview data from 151 adults were analysed in NVivo 20 via a novel chronological analysis anchored in key policy phases: no vaccine mandates, key worker vaccine mandates, vaccine mandates covering 75% of the workforce and public space mandates. Participants justified mandates as essential for border reopening and, less frequently, for goals such as protecting the health system. However, public discourse focusing on 'getting coverage rates up' may prove counter-productive for building support for vaccination; governments should reinforce end goals in public messaging (reducing suffering and saving lives) because such messaging is likely to be more meaningful to vaccination behaviour in the longer term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Attwell
- VaxPolLab, School of Social Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Leah Roberts
- VaxPolLab, School of Social Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Marco Rizzi
- UWA Law School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Zimmermann BM, Paul KT, Janny A, Butt Z. Between information campaign and controversy: a quantitative newspaper content analysis about COVID-19 vaccination in Switzerland and Austria. Scand J Public Health 2024; 52:253-261. [PMID: 37646484 DOI: 10.1177/14034948231195388] [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] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Because media portrayal reflects and shapes public opinion and health policy, investigating news coverage of public health issues is highly relevant for public health research and practice. Addressing a topical issue, this study investigated how newspaper coverage framed COVID-19 vaccines in Austria and German-speaking Switzerland and how it developed over time. METHODS A quantitative newspaper content analysis of six newspapers from Austria and German-speaking Switzerland published between January 1 and 31, 2022 was conducted. Frames were identified for each country separately through hierarchical cluster analysis (Ward's method) based on frame elements. RESULTS Four frames were identified in both countries: (1) Evaluating new vaccines, (2) Discussing mandates, (3) Promoting vaccination, (4) Mentioning vaccines. In Frames 1 (Switzerland 86.4%, Austria 93.3%) and 3 (Switzerland 92.7%, Austria 98.9%), most articles included vaccine-endorsing statements, with Swiss coverage including additional negative statements more often than Austrian coverage (43.2%/44.6% vs 4.0%/3.3%). Frame 2 was closely linked to vaccine skepticism only in Austria and contained more evaluative statements in Austrian newspapers (25.4% endorsing, 35.4% rejecting; in Switzerland 14.5%/18.1%). The Austrian tabloid Kronen Zeitung published most articles (497/1091, 45.6%). CONCLUSIONS The commercialized and comparatively high share of tabloid news coverage in Austria may have contributed to oversimplified and polarizing COVID-19 vaccine debates in this context. Insufficiently balanced and adequate information may contribute to a loss of public trust in vaccination and may therefore affect vaccination uptake. Authorities and public health professionals should consider this effect when designing information campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina M Zimmermann
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of History and Ethics in Medicine, School of Social Sciences, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Germany
- Institute of Philosophy and Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Katharina T Paul
- Department of Political Science, University of Vienna, Austria
- Research Platform Governance of Digital Practices (DigiGov), University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna Janny
- Department of Political Science, University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Zarah Butt
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Switzerland
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3
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Gaviola GC, Desai S. Immunization requirements in medical school accreditation standards. Vaccine 2024; 42:753-756. [PMID: 37127525 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCW) are at risk of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases and spreading these infections to their patients. Vaccination against preventable diseases prior to clinical training can mitigate this risk. Accreditation guidance can be used as an opportunity to enforce desirable norms and standards. Standards from 144 national accreditation organizations spanning 123 member states listed in the Directory of Organizations that Recognize/Accredit Medical Schools by the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research were reviewed and summarized. Findings were further stratified by World Bank income group and WHO region. While higher-income countries were more likely to have accreditation guidelines available than lower- or middle-income countries, few national medical school accreditation bodies specifically request immunization status of trainees as a standard. Further, almost none mention specific antigens for which immunity should be assessed. These findings should be used by medical school and other health professional training accreditation bodies to inform future policy direction to protect trainees as future HCW.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Gaviola
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - S Desai
- Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals, World Health Organization, Switzerland.
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Malchrzak W, Babicki M, Mastalerz-Migas A. Vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae in Children Born between 2015 and 2018 in Poland-How Has the Introduction of Free Compulsory Pneumococcal Vaccination Affected Its Uptake? Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1654. [PMID: 38005986 PMCID: PMC10675499 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11111654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Starting from 2017, pneumococcal vaccination was added to the Polish vaccination calendar as mandatory for all children born after 2016. The 10-valent conjugate vaccine was selected as mandatory and therefore free of charge. This paper aims to examine the impact of introducing mandatory vaccination on vaccine uptake. For this purpose, an analysis was conducted for 1595 vaccination record sheets from outpatient clinics in Wrocław and surrounding villages for children born 2015-2018. After the introduction of compulsory vaccination, the percentage of children fully vaccinated against pneumococcus increased (60.4% vs. 84.8%, p < 0.001). A significant decrease in the number of children who did not receive any dose of the vaccine was observed (27.8% to 3.3%, p < 0.001). The introduction of compulsory vaccination did not affect the completion of the pneumococcal schedule (11.8% vs. 11.9%). Compulsory PCV10 vaccination resulted in the less frequent choice of the 13-valent vaccine (72.3% vs. 19.9%, p < 0.001). More children in rural outpatient clinics were vaccinated against pneumococcus compared to urban outpatient clinics (84.8% vs. 70.8%, p < 0.001). The introduction of free pneumococcal vaccination increased the proportion of children vaccinated, although it did not affect the rate of discontinuation of the initiated schedule. In Poland, the increased popularity of the 10-valent vaccine at the expense of the 13-valent one translated into a change in the proportion of pneumococcal serotypes causing invasive pneumococcal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Malchrzak
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wrocław, Poland; (M.B.); (A.M.-M.)
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Zoumpoulis G, Deligiorgi P, Lamprinos D, Georgakopoulos P, Oikonomou E, Siasos G, Rachiotis G, Damaskos C, Papagiannis D, Papavassiliou KA, Patoulis G, Patsourakos F, Benetou V, Riza E, Orfanos P, Lagiou P, Marinos G. Attitudes and Practices Related to COVID-19 Vaccination with the Second Booster Dose among Members of Athens Medical Association: Results from a Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1480. [PMID: 37766156 PMCID: PMC10534426 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11091480] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited data on the attitudes and acceptance of the second booster (fourth dose) of the COVID-19 vaccination among physicians. METHODS A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based, online study was conducted among members of the Athens Medical Association (A.M.A.) who were invited to participate anonymously over the period from January to March 2023. RESULTS From the 1224 members who participated in the survey, 53.9% did not receive the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The main reasons for no vaccination were the lack of obligation to receive the fourth dose, the history of three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and the lack of sufficient information about the effectiveness of the fourth dose. Over half of the three-dose-vaccinated participants were willing to receive the fourth dose in the near future. Interestingly, the vaccination coverage among participants who had been informed about the fourth dose through scientific sources was low. CONCLUSIONS The low vaccination coverage with the fourth dose reported in this study can lead to broad and serious consequences, such as increase in COVID-19 infections, reduction of available healthcare staff and increased caseloads of COVID-19 in hospitals. Furthermore, hesitant physicians will adversely influence the vaccination uptake among the general population due to their key role in informing and recommending the vaccine. The healthcare system administration should acknowledge and address physician's concerns through effective communication and better support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Third Department of Cardiology, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Third Department of Cardiology, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Rachiotis
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Damaskos
- Renal Transplantation Unit, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
- N.S. Christeas Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Papagiannis
- Public Health & Vaccines Laboratory, Department of Nursing, School of Health Science, University of Thessaly, 38221 Volos, Greece
| | - Kostas A Papavassiliou
- First Department of Respiratory Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Vasiliki Benetou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Elena Riza
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Philippos Orfanos
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Pagona Lagiou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Marinos
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Singleton BA, Al-Dahir S, Gillard C, Earls M, Bommarito J, Duhe M, Phi K. Perceived Role, Identity and Experiences of Pharmacists and the Potential Impact on COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake per Louisiana Region: A Prospective Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6459. [PMID: 37569001 PMCID: PMC10418418 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20156459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Some of the lowest COVID-19 community vaccination rates in America are found in Louisiana. This study investigated: (1) barriers that Louisiana pharmacists encountered during the pandemic; and (2) the effect of pharmacists' role and identity confidence on willingness to enforce vaccine mandates, and COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Fifty-four community pharmacists from nine regions of Louisiana participated in the study. Pharmacists completed questionnaires about: personal demographics, patient population, vaccination encouragement, COVID-19 concerns, and vaccination administration rates. The importance of feeling like a trusted voice in the community, as well as professional perception and self-assurance, were measured using Likert scale questions. During focus groups, participants discussed experiences with the COVID-19 vaccination rollout and vaccination-related obstacles. As the pandemic progressed, pharmacists reported being overworked, understaffed, and overburdened with new responsibilities. In regions with lower vaccination rates, pharmacists were less likely to feel at ease enforcing vaccine mandates. Independent pharmacists were less comfortable enforcing vaccine mandates than chain pharmacists but had more positive perceptions of their role and identity. This study contributes to further understanding of pharmacy workflow obstacles and pharmacists' perceptions of their professional roles and identities in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany A. Singleton
- Division of Clinical and Administrative Sciences, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA 70125, USA
| | - Sara Al-Dahir
- Division of Clinical and Administrative Sciences, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA 70125, USA
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Politis M, Sotiriou S, Doxani C, Stefanidis I, Zintzaras E, Rachiotis G. Healthcare Workers' Attitudes towards Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040880. [PMID: 37112791 PMCID: PMC10142794 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 vaccine mandates are considered a controversial public health policy both in public debate and among healthcare workers (HCWs). Thus, the objective of this systematic review is to give a deep insight into HCWs' views and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination mandates amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A systematic literature search of five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science) was conducted between July 2022 and November 2022. Original quantitative studies that addressed the attitudes of HCWs regarding COVID-19 vaccine mandates were considered eligible for this systematic review. All the included studies (n = 57) were critically appraised and assessed for risk of systematic bias. Meta-analyses were performed, providing a pooled estimate of HCWs' acceptance towards COVID-19 vaccine mandates for: 1. HCWs and 2. the general population. RESULTS In total, 64% (95% CI: 55%, 72%) of HCWs favored COVID-19 vaccine mandates for HCWs, while 50% (95% CI: 38%, 61%) supported mandating COVID-19 vaccines for the general population. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that mandatory vaccination against COVID-19 is a highly controversial issue among HCWs. The present study provides stakeholders and policy makers with useful evidence related to the compulsory or non-compulsory nature of COVID-19 vaccinations for HCWs and the general population. Other: The protocol used in this review is registered on PROSPERO with the ID number: CRD42022350275.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Politis
- Department of Biomathematics, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larissa, Greece
| | - Sotiris Sotiriou
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Doxani
- Department of Biomathematics, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis Stefanidis
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Elias Zintzaras
- Department of Biomathematics, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larissa, Greece
- Center for Clinical Evidence Synthesis, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- The Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Georgios Rachiotis
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
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8
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Langer R, Thanner M. Pharmacists' attitudes toward influenza vaccination: does the COVID-19 pandemic make a difference? EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 9:100235. [PMID: 36816546 PMCID: PMC9925413 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100235] [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: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Influenza vaccine uptake in most European countries remains low, despite the World Health Organization's target of 75%. Community pharmacists play a vital role in promoting vaccination; however, they have been reported to be vaccine-hesitant. This study aimed to investigate changes in pharmacists' attitudes toward influenza vaccination since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their COVID-19 vaccination intentions. Methods In December 2020, all members of the Swiss Association of Pharmacists were invited to participate in an online, cross-sectional survey. This study assessed pharmacists' attitudes toward influenza vaccination by surveying influenza vaccine uptake during the 2019-20 influenza season and possible reasons for their decision(s), in addition to their intention to receive COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccination(s) during the 2020-21 influenza season. Descriptive analysis and multinomial logistic regression were used to assess predictors of vaccine uptake and intention. Results Of 5900 Swiss pharmacists, 569 (9.6%) completed the survey. The self-reported influenza vaccination coverage among pharmacists during the 2019-20 season was 48.0%. The primary reason for vaccine uptake was the belief that all healthcare workers should be vaccinated, whereas the main reason for refusal was a lack of concern about contracting influenza. The proportions of participants who intend to accept influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations in the 2020-2021 season, when available, were 63.3% and 66.5%, respectively. The most important predictor of high willingness to be vaccinated against influenza in 2020-21 was vaccination history (OR = 3.73; 95% CI = 1.47-9.50), while the most critical predictor of willingness to be vaccinated against COVID-19 was the intention to be vaccinated against influenza (OR = 3.45; 95% CI = 1.74-6.84). Conclusions Findings indicated that although pharmacists' readiness to accept seasonal influenza vaccination significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, influenza vaccine uptake among them remains suboptimal. This is consistent with what has been reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Langer
- Department of Medical Sciences, Private University in the Principality of Liechtenstein (UFL), Triesen, Principality of Liechtenstein,Corresponding author.
| | - Mirjam Thanner
- Frauenklinik, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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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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Casey SM, Burrowes SAB, Hall T, Dobbins S, Ma M, Bano R, Yarrington C, Schechter-Perkins EM, Garofalo C, Drainoni ML, Perkins RB, Pierre-Joseph N. Healthcare workers' attitudes on mandates, incentives, and strategies to improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake: A mixed methods study. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2144048. [PMID: 36411988 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2144048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers are a trusted health information source and are uniquely positioned to reduce the burden of the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this sequential exploratory mixed methods study was to understand attitudes of healthcare workers working in Massachusetts during the COVID-19 pandemic regarding strategies to improve COVID-19 vaccine utilization, including vaccine mandates and incentives. Fifty-two individuals completed one-on-one interviews between April 22nd and September 7th, 2021. The survey was developed based on findings from the interviews; 209 individuals completed the online survey between February 17th and March 23rd, 2022. Both the interview and survey asked about attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccine and booster mandates, incentives, and strategies to improve vaccination rates. Most participants were female (79%-interview, 81%-survey), Caucasian (56%, 73%), and worked as physicians (37%, 34%) or nurses (10%, 18%). Overall, nuanced attitudes regarding vaccine and booster mandates were expressed; many supported mandates to protect their patients' health, others emphasized personal autonomy, while some were against mandates if job termination was the consequence of declining vaccines. Similarly, views regarding vaccine incentives differed; some considered incentives helpful, yet many viewed them as coercive. Strategies believed to be most effective to encourage vaccination included improving accessibility to vaccination sites, addressing misinformation, discussing vaccine safety, tailored community outreach via trusted messengers, and one-on-one conversations between patients and healthcare workers. Healthcare workers' experiences with strategies to improve utilization of COVID-19 vaccines and boosters have implications for public health policies. Generally, efforts to improve access and education were viewed more favorably than incentives and mandates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon M Casey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shana A B Burrowes
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Taylor Hall
- Graduate of Medical Sciences, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sidney Dobbins
- Epidemiology and Statistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mengyu Ma
- Epidemiology and Statistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ruqiyya Bano
- Epidemiology and Statistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christina Yarrington
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elissa M Schechter-Perkins
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher Garofalo
- Department of Family Medicine and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sturdy Memorial Hospital, Attleboro, Massachusetts, USA.,Family Medicine Associates of South Attleboro, South Attleboro, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Health Law Policy & Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rebecca B Perkins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Natalie Pierre-Joseph
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Lucas Ramanathan P, Baldesberger N, Dietrich LG, Speranza C, Lüthy A, Buhl A, Gisin M, Koch R, Nicca D, Suggs LS, Huber BM, Deml MJ, Tarr PE. Health Care Professionals' Interest in Vaccination Training in Switzerland: A Quantitative Survey. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1604495. [PMID: 36531605 PMCID: PMC9749818 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1604495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Health care professionals (HCPs) play an important role for patients' vaccination decisions. To counsel patients/clients appropriately, HCPs need current factual knowledge about vaccines and strong communication skills. Methods: We conducted an online survey with physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and midwives in Switzerland (01.11.2020-31.03.2021). We evaluated: 1) interest in vaccination knowledge and counseling training; 2) vaccination recommendation practices; 3) experience with vaccination counseling/administration; 4) comfort level in addressing vaccine hesitancy (VH); 5) perspectives on patient/client VH, delays, and refusals. Results: In total, 1,933 practicing HCPs responded (496 physicians, 226 pharmacists, 607 nurses, 604 midwives). 43% physicians, 31% pharmacists, 15% nurses, and 23% midwives felt comfortable counseling VH patients/clients. 96% physicians, 98% pharmacists, 85% nurses, and 91% midwives were interested in additional vaccination-related training. All professionals mentioned safety, efficacy, and side effects as topics of most interest for additional training. Conclusion: Results demonstrate a high interest among HCPs for additional vaccination-related training. In addition to factual information about vaccination, such training will likely benefit from a communication component, given the low rates of comfort reported by HCPs when counseling VH patients/clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Lucas Ramanathan
- University Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases Service, Kantonsspital Baselland, Bruderholz, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nadja Baldesberger
- University Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases Service, Kantonsspital Baselland, Bruderholz, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Léna G. Dietrich
- University Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases Service, Kantonsspital Baselland, Bruderholz, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Camilla Speranza
- Institute of Public Health, and Institute of Communication and Public Policy, Università della Svizzera italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Alyssa Lüthy
- University Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases Service, Kantonsspital Baselland, Bruderholz, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Buhl
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martina Gisin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Dunja Nicca
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - L. Suzanne Suggs
- Institute of Public Health, and Institute of Communication and Public Policy, Università della Svizzera italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
- Swiss School of Public Health, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Benedikt M. Huber
- Center for Integrative Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Fribourg Hospital HFR, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Michael J. Deml
- Institute of Sociological Research, Department of Sociology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philip E. Tarr
- University Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases Service, Kantonsspital Baselland, Bruderholz, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Attwell K, Roberts L, Blyth CC, Carlson SJ. Western Australian health care workers' views on mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for the workplace. HEALTH POLICY AND TECHNOLOGY 2022; 11:100657. [PMID: 35910408 PMCID: PMC9314263 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlpt.2022.100657] [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] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Health care workers (HCWs) are at an increased risk of catching and spreading Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared with the general community, putting health systems at risk. Several jurisdictions globally have mandated or are looking to mandate COVID-19 vaccines for this cohort, but little is known about the acceptability of this measure, especially in different contexts, and there is little qualitative data to explore nuance, depth, and the reasons behind HCWs’ opinions. Methods In-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews were undertaken with 39 HCWs in Western Australia (WA) between February-August 2021, ascertaining their views on the prospective introduction and implementation of mandates for COVID-19 vaccines. Data were thematically analysed using NVivo 20. Results There was broad support for COVID-19 vaccine mandates for HCWs amongst our participants, but also different views about what such a mandate would mean (redeployment versus termination) and how it would impact the rest of the workforce. One vaccine hesitant participant said that mandates would be their prompt to get vaccinated. Other participants invoked an informal code whereby HCWs have an obligation to be seen to support vaccination and to protect public health more broadly. However, they also raised concerns about implementation and procedural and policy fairness. Conclusion Policymakers should consider how to mobilise the informal code of health promotion and public health support if introducing mandates. They should also consider whether HCWs will bring the same attitudes and approaches to mandates for additional vaccine doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Attwell
- School of Social Sciences, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley WA 6009, Australia.,Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Leah Roberts
- School of Social Sciences, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley WA 6009, Australia
| | - Christopher C Blyth
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Samantha J Carlson
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
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