Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of healthcare workers regarding influenza and vaccination in Salerno, Italy

Abstract

Background: Influenza vaccination coverage among healthcare workers (HCWs) is unacceptably low despite
the recommendations of health authorities.
Objective: The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge base of healthcare workers in Local Health
Services (LHS) regarding influenza vaccination and to identify the factors that inhibit or motivate vaccination
among HCWs.
Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out between July and October 2003 within the five Hospitals of
the LHS “Azienda Sanitaria Salerno2”, Salerno, Italy. In July 2003, we prepared a standardized anonymous
questionnaire for a sample of 280 healthcare workers aimed at surveying their knowledge base and attitudes
towards influenza and vaccination. The HCWs were recruited by random selection using the stratified
layered sampling method. On the basis of the results of our survey, a hospital vaccination campaign was
undertaken. Statistical analysis was carried out using the EpiInfo 6.06 program. Data were analyzed through
frequency distribution. Statistical comparison was performed using the Chi-square tests and a p-value <0,05
was considered statistically significant*.
Results: During the 2003-2004 influenza season, 230 (81%) out of 280 employees answered the
questionnaire. 31 respondents (13.5%) were physicians, 94 (40.9%) were nurses and 105 (45.6%) were
workers employed in supporting services. The vaccination rate among Health Care workers of this Local
Health Service (LHS) unit was about 15.0%. The reasons most frequently cited by HCWs for noncompliance
with vaccination were confidence in their own personal health, the fear of adverse reactions to the vaccine
and the doubt they had about vaccine efficacy.
Conclusions: We conclude that those responsible for influenza vaccination programs might consider a
specifically tailored intervention strategy aimed at improving coverage. The answers collected can be used
to refine the following season’s campaign.