Investigation of Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Status in Chronic Kidney Failure Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Survey Study

Abstract

Aim: Respiratory tract infections due to influenza virus are more mortal in hemodialysis patients than in the healthy population. These patients should be provided with influenza vaccination every year. In this study; the frequency of influenza vaccination in hemodialysis patients in our region and the factors affecting it were investigated. Material and Method:A total of 239 patients who had undergone hemodialysis for at least one year were asked the prepared questionnaires. The obtained data were analyzed in SPSS 20 program. Results:The rate of seasonal influenza vaccination of the patients was 87%. Vaccination rates were found to be significantly higher in patients with a duration of hemodialysis longer than five years and those who were vaccinated in the last year (respectively p=0.02, p=0.016). The rate of pneumococcal vaccination in those vaccinated against influenza and the rate of vaccination in the families of these patients were also found to be significantly higher (p<0.01). Conclusion:In this study, it was found that influenza vaccination rates were high in patients undergoing hemodialysis in our region. The reason for this is that the influenza vaccine is provided free of charge to those with chronic diseases every year by the Ministry of Health in our country.