Influenza Vaccination Coverage Rates and Other Related Factors in Personnel of Birjand Teaching Hospitals in 2018: A Short Report

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended in health care workers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the coverage of influenza vaccine and its related factors in the staff of Birjand teaching hospitals. Materials and Methods:In this cross-sectional study, a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic, ward and hospital characteristics of the workplace, regular and annual use of seasonal influenza vaccine, staff knowledge and attitude questions, possible reasons for using or not using the vaccine were completed by 233 participants. The data was analyzed by using chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests.Results: 8.8 percent of the staff had annual vaccine use and 48.5percent had at least one seasonal influenza vaccine.The mean score of knowledge and attitude among the hospital personnel regarding influenza vaccination was 5.5±1.9 out of 9. Conclusion:Influenza vaccination coverage is low in educational hospitals staff in Birjand. Therefore, there is a need for further education to increase staff awareness about the importance of vaccination.