Understanding healthcare worker uptake of influenza vaccination: a survey

Abstract

He growing threat of pandemic influenza highlights the importance of influenza vaccination as a public health measure. Yet despite the many benefits associated with influenza vaccination, national uptake by healthcare workers has remained low since being introduced for such staff in 2000. Improving uptake of influenza vaccination in healthcare workers has potential health benefits for individuals in terms of protection against the disease. Other possible benefits include a reduction in risk of nosocomial transmission to patient populations, improved public health for the population as a whole along with more efficient use of healthcare resources within the NHS. This research explored factors influencing influenza vaccination uptake in healthcare workers, by investigating knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of qualified nursing staff directly involved in patient care in NHS Lanarkshire. Differences in knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards influenza vaccination were found across the targeted population. Such findings have the potential to inform and enhance the design and implementation of upcoming vaccination campaigns.