Influenza vaccine uptake, determinants, motivators and barriers of the vaccine receipt among healthcare workers in a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia

Abstract Background Influenza vaccination of health care workers (HCWs) is essential for patient safety, their own safety and hospital operation. However, despite its strong recommendation, studies indicates a low rate of vaccine uptake. Aim This paper aims to assess rates of and factors affecting influenza vaccine uptake among HCWs. Methods A cross sectional survey was carried out during October 1st to 16th 2015, among HCWs in King Abdullah medical city in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered, anonymous questionnaire was distributed to HCWs; this included questions on demographic characteristics, vaccine uptake, and knowledge, beliefs, attitude and concern about influenza vaccine. Findings Out of 500 HCWs approached, 447 returned valid self-reported questionnaires with response rate 89.4%. Overall, 88.3% of the participants reported receiving vaccination during the 2014-2015 season, higher than during the 2013/2014 (61.2%) and 2012/2013 (54.5%) seasons. Self-protection (81.5%) was the main reason for vaccination, whereas, 73.4% of HCWs reported vaccination to protect patients. The main reasons for vaccination avoidance were misconception that the vaccine causes influenza (38.5%) and concern about vaccine efficacy (32.7%). Logistic regression analysis revealed the following were independently associated with vaccine receipt among HCWs: awareness of vaccine guidelines, intention to receive the vaccine next season, nurses and other HCWs compared to physicians; longer practice, and age >40 years. Conclusion A good uptake of influenza vaccine was achieved during 1414/1415 season following adoption of mandatory vaccination policy. Awareness programmes are needed to correct HCWs' misconceptions about the vaccine. Efforts need to focus particularly on physicians, younger staff and new recruits.