Survey of healthcare workers' attitudes, beliefs and willingness to receive the 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine and the impact of educational campaigns.
BACKGROUND
Vaccination against the 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) represents the best method of controlling spread, morbidity and mortality due to the pandemic. While this has been recommended for all healthcare-workers locally, it is unclear if they are willing to accept the vaccination.


METHODS
A cross-sectional survey was conducted before and after an educational talk on pandemic influenza and vaccines to ascertain responses and stated reasons, as well as identify associated factors.


RESULTS
For 235 returned forms prior to the talk, 182 (77.4%) responded positively, while 161 of 192 (83.8%) who returned forms after the talk responded positively. Importantly, 12 of 47 (25.5%) initially negative responses turned positive after education. The desire to protect family, self and patients were the 3 most important reasons for staff wanting to receive the vaccine, while the concern regarding potential side effects was the most important reason for refusal.


CONCLUSIONS
A high rate of willingness to receive pandemic influenza vaccine was found, which was in contrast to acceptance rates elsewhere and during previous influenza seasons. Education can play an important role in altering vaccine acceptance behaviour, with an emphasis on addressing concerns with regard to potential side effects.
Thoon
Koh Cheng
KC
Department of Paediatric Medicine, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore. Thoon.Koh.Cheng@kkh.com.sg
Chong
Chia Yin
CY
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D053118:Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology*; D007252:Influenza Vaccines; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000821:virology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D015397:Program Evaluation; D055815:Young Adult
D007252:Influenza Vaccines