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14 pages, 300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attitude Towards Vaccination Among University Students at a Spanish University: Relationships with Sociodemographic and Academic Variables

by Francisco Javier Pérez-Rivas, Laura Esteban-Gonzalo and David García-García

Vaccines 2024, 12(12), 1301; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12121301 - 21 Nov 2024

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Abstract

Objectives: This descriptive, cross-sectional study examines the attitude towards vaccination of students at the Complutense University of Madrid (Spain) and explores its relationship with sociodemographic and academic variables using a bivariate analysis and linear and logistic regression. Methods: The attitude towards vaccination of [...] Read more.

Objectives: This descriptive, cross-sectional study examines the attitude towards vaccination of students at the Complutense University of Madrid (Spain) and explores its relationship with sociodemographic and academic variables using a bivariate analysis and linear and logistic regression. Methods: The attitude towards vaccination of 3577 students of different disciplines was assessed using an online version of the Questionnaire on Attitudes and Behaviours towards Vaccination. In addition, all students were asked if they sought information produced by anti-vaccination groups and whether they identified as “anti-vaccine”. Results: In general, the students showed a favourable attitude towards vaccination. Older students, those in paid employment, and those undertaking non-health-related studies had less favourable attitudes. Spanish-born and female students showed more positive attitudes than foreign-born and non-binary/male students, respectively. Only a small proportion of students identified as anti-vaccine. Conclusions: Despite these positive results, the need for interventions targeting specific groups with less favourable attitudes, such as older students, employed students, and those in non-health-related fields, is clear. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

18 pages, 4117 KiB

Open AccessArticle

EMSIG: Uncovering Factors Influencing COVID-19 Vaccination Across Different Subgroups Characterized by Embedding-Based Spatial Information Gain

by Zongliang Yue, Nicholas P. McCormick, Oluchukwu M. Ezeala, Spencer H. Durham and Salisa C. Westrick

Vaccines 2024, 12(11), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12111253 - 4 Nov 2024

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: COVID-19 and its variants continue to pose significant threats to public health, with considerable uncertainty surrounding their impact. As of September 2024, the total number of deaths reached 8.8 million worldwide. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing COVID-19. However, vaccination [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: COVID-19 and its variants continue to pose significant threats to public health, with considerable uncertainty surrounding their impact. As of September 2024, the total number of deaths reached 8.8 million worldwide. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing COVID-19. However, vaccination rates in the Deep South, U.S., are notably lower than the national average due to various factors. Methods: To address this challenge, we developed the Embedding-based Spatial Information Gain (EMSIG) method, an innovative tool using machine learning techniques for subgroup modeling. EMSIG helps identify subgroups where participants share similar perceptions but exhibit high variance in COVID-19 vaccine doses. It introduces spatial information gain (SIG) to screen regions of interest (ROI) subgroups and reveals their specific concerns. Results: We analyzed survey data from 1020 participants in Alabama. EMSIG identified 16 factors encompassing COVID-19 hesitancy and trust in medical doctors, pharmacists, and public health authorities and revealed four distinct ROI subgroups. The five factors, including COVID-19 perceived detriment, fear, skepticism, side effects related to COVID-19, and communication with pharmacists, were commonly shared across at least three subgroups. A subgroup primarily composed of Democrats with a high flu-shot rate expressed concerns about pharmacist communication, government fairness, and responsibility. Another subgroup, characterized by older, white Republicans with a relatively low flu-shot rate, expressed concerns about doctor trust and the intelligence of public health authorities. Conclusions: EMSIG enhances our understanding of specific concerns across different demographics, characterizes these demographics, and informs targeted interventions to increase vaccination uptake and ensure equitable prevention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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11 pages, 1419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Predictive Factors of Flu Vaccine Uptake Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Using the NIS-Teen Survey

by Ty J. Skyles, Harlan P. Stevens, Spencer C. Davis, Acelan M. Obray, Dashiell S. Miner, Matthew J. East, Tyler Davis, Haley Hoelzer, Stephen R. Piccolo, Jamie L. Jensen and Brian D. Poole

Vaccines 2024, 12(10), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12101164 - 12 Oct 2024

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Abstract

Background: Seasonal influenza vaccination rates are very low among teenagers. Objectives: We used publicly available data from the NIS-Teen annual national immunization survey to explore factors that influence the likelihood of a teen receiving their seasonal flu shot. Methods: Traditional stepwise multivariable regression [...] Read more.

Background: Seasonal influenza vaccination rates are very low among teenagers. Objectives: We used publicly available data from the NIS-Teen annual national immunization survey to explore factors that influence the likelihood of a teen receiving their seasonal flu shot. Methods: Traditional stepwise multivariable regression was used in tandem with machine learning to determine the predictive factors in teen vaccine uptake. Results and Conclusions: Age was the largest predictor, with older teens being much less likely to be vaccinated than younger teens (97.48% compared to 41.71%, p < 0.0001). Provider participation in government programs such as Vaccines for Children and the state vaccine registry positively impacts vaccine uptake (p < 0.0001). Identifying as non-Hispanic Black was a small, negative predictor of teen vaccine uptake (78.18% unvaccinated compared to 73.78% of White teens, p < 0.0001). The state quartile for COVID-19 vaccine uptake also strongly predicted flu vaccine uptake, with the upper quartile of state COVID-19 vaccine uptake being significantly more likely to also get vaccinated for influenza (76.96%, 74.94%, 74.55%, and 72.97%, p < 0.0001). Other significant factors are the number of providers, education of the mother, poverty status, and having a mixed provider facility type. Additionally, the multivariable regression analysis revealed little difference in the predictive factors of vaccine uptake between pre- and post-pandemic datasets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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26 pages, 4463 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Messaging to Reduce Booster Hesitancy among the Fully Vaccinated

by Chao Qin, Susan Joslyn, Jee Hoon Han, Sonia Savelli and Nidhi Agrawal

Vaccines 2024, 12(9), 1066; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12091066 - 18 Sep 2024

Viewed by 726

Abstract

Vaccine hesitancy was a serious problem in the United States throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, due in part to the reduction in public trust in science that accompanied the pandemic. Now we are facing a new, similar but more extensive problem: booster hesitancy. Even [...] Read more.

Vaccine hesitancy was a serious problem in the United States throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, due in part to the reduction in public trust in science that accompanied the pandemic. Now we are facing a new, similar but more extensive problem: booster hesitancy. Even fewer Americans are current on the mRNA booster. We present the results of an experiment with residents of the US who received all initial doses of the mRNA vaccine but who were not up to date on the booster. Participants read a scientific explanation describing either the safety or the effectiveness of the boosters or nothing in the control group. The explanations significantly increased (compared to the control) participants’ perceptions of the safety and effectiveness of the mRNA booster, as well as their willingness to get boosted. Explanations also improved emotions and attitudes toward the booster. Furthermore, although liberals were significantly more willing to get boosted than were conservatives, improvement due to the explanations was similar across political ideology groups. However, when interactions were observed, conservatives increased to a greater degree. Importantly, the explanations increased participants’ perception of scientists’ expertise and knowledge, as well as participants’ trust in scientists and the vaccine technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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20 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Parental Hesitancy toward Seasonal Influenza Vaccination for Children under the Age of 18 Years and Its Determinants in the Post-Pandemic Era: A Cross-Sectional Survey among 1175 Parents in China

by He Cao, Siyu Chen, Yijie Liu, Kechun Zhang, Yuan Fang, Hongbiao Chen, Tian Hu, Rulian Zhong, Xiaofeng Zhou and Zixin Wang

Vaccines 2024, 12(9), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12090988 - 29 Aug 2024

Viewed by 683

Abstract

Children’s susceptibility to influenza increased after COVID-19 control measures were lifted. This study investigated parental hesitancy toward seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) for children and its determinants in the post-pandemic era. An online survey of full-time adult factory workers was conducted in Shenzhen, China [...] Read more.

Children’s susceptibility to influenza increased after COVID-19 control measures were lifted. This study investigated parental hesitancy toward seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) for children and its determinants in the post-pandemic era. An online survey of full-time adult factory workers was conducted in Shenzhen, China in December 2023. This analysis was based on 1175 parents who had at least one child under the age of 18 years. Among all parents, 37.1% were hesitant to have their index child receive SIV. Mothers exhibited lower parental hesitancy toward SIV compared to fathers (31.9% versus 41.3%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for significant background characteristics, mothers and fathers who were more satisfied with the SIV health promotion materials, perceived more severe consequences of seasonal influenza for their children, and perceived more benefits, cues to action, and self-efficacy related to their children’s SIV were less likely to exhibit hesitancy toward SIV. Higher frequency of exposure to information about the increasing number of patients or severe cases due to seasonal influenza and other upper respiratory infections on social media was associated with lower parental hesitancy toward SIV among fathers but not mothers. There is a strong need to address parental hesitancy toward SIV for children in the post-pandemic era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

9 pages, 230 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influenza Vaccination Practices and Perceptions Among Young Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study in Greece

by Dimitrios Lamprinos, Maria Vroulou, Michail Chatzopoulos, Panagiotis Georgakopoulos, Paraskevi Deligiorgi, Evangelos Oikonomou, Gerasimos Siasos, Petros G. Botonis, Kostas A. Papavassiliou, Dimitrios Papagiannis, Theodoros Pouletidis, Christos Damaskos, George Rachiotis and Georgios Marinos

Vaccines 2024, 12(8), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12080904 - 9 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1145

Abstract

Background: Influenza vaccination among athletes is a crucial area in sports medicine. This descriptive, cross-sectional study aims to explore the vaccination practices and intentions regarding influenza vaccines among young athletes. Methods: A structured, questionnaire-based study was conducted among students from the National School [...] Read more.

Background: Influenza vaccination among athletes is a crucial area in sports medicine. This descriptive, cross-sectional study aims to explore the vaccination practices and intentions regarding influenza vaccines among young athletes. Methods: A structured, questionnaire-based study was conducted among students from the National School of Sports in Greece. The survey was conducted over the period of April to May 2023. Overall, 138 participants participated in the study. Results: More than half of the participants had received a flu vaccine in the past, but only 12.3% were vaccinated against influenza for 2022–2023. The main reasons seemed to be the lack of time (40.6%) and the idea that influenza does not lead to any serious health threats for the participants (36.2%). The main factor that affected their decision to get the flu vaccine or not was the need for more information regarding influenza vaccination (79%). Conclusions: The recent study showed low vaccination coverage among people of young age participating in sports activities. The qualitative views of the participants highlighted the significance of the lackof a well-organized information program provided by health professionals and coaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

13 pages, 838 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in the Pneumococcal Vaccination Uptake and Its Determinants before, during, and after the COVID-19 Pandemic among Community-Living Older Adults in Hong Kong, China: Repeated Random Telephone Surveys

by Paul Shing-fong Chan, Josiah Poon, Soyeon Caren Han, Danhua Ye, Fuk-yuen Yu, Yuan Fang, Martin C. S. Wong, Phoenix K. H. Mo and Zixin Wang

Vaccines 2024, 12(8), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12080894 - 7 Aug 2024

Viewed by 975

Abstract

Pneumococcal vaccination (PV) is effective in preventing vaccine-type pneumococcal diseases. This study investigated the changes in PV uptake and its determinants before, during, and after the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic among community-living older adults aged ≥65 years in Hong Kong, China. Three [...] Read more.

Pneumococcal vaccination (PV) is effective in preventing vaccine-type pneumococcal diseases. This study investigated the changes in PV uptake and its determinants before, during, and after the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic among community-living older adults aged ≥65 years in Hong Kong, China. Three rounds of random telephone surveys were conducted every two years from May 2019 to October 2023. Multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to examine the between-round differences in PV uptake rate and factors associated with PV uptake in each round. This study included 1563 participants. The standardized PV uptake rate in Round 1, 2, and 3 was 17.3%, 28.3%, and 35.5%, respectively. A significant difference in the PV uptake rate was found between Rounds 2 and 1 (p = 0.02), but not between Rounds 3 and 2 (p = 0.98). Perceived barriers, cue to action and self-efficacy, were significant determinants of PV uptake in all rounds. Perceived benefits were significant determinants of PV uptake in the first and second rounds, but not in the third round. Continuous monitoring of PV uptake and its determinants, and evaluating and adjusting the PV program, might contribute to the success of such a vaccination program in the post-pandemic era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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11 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Perceptions and Barriers: A Health Belief Model-Based Analysis of Seasonal Influenza Vaccination among High-Risk Healthcare Workers in China

by Yalan Peng, Yantong Wang, Wenzhi Huang, Ji Lin, Qinghui Zeng, Yi Chen and Fu Qiao

Vaccines 2024, 12(7), 796; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12070796 - 18 Jul 2024

Viewed by 938

Abstract

The annual seasonal influenza vaccination rate among high-risk healthcare workers (HCWs) has fallen below expectations, underscoring the importance of exploring the impact of perception on vaccination behavior. An online survey, grounded in the Health Belief Model (HBM), was administered to high-risk healthcare workers [...] Read more.

The annual seasonal influenza vaccination rate among high-risk healthcare workers (HCWs) has fallen below expectations, underscoring the importance of exploring the impact of perception on vaccination behavior. An online survey, grounded in the Health Belief Model (HBM), was administered to high-risk healthcare workers at West China Hospital. The data analysis encompassed descriptive statistics, logistic regression for univariate analysis, and path regression for multivariate analysis. A total of 1845 healthcare workers completed the survey, with an acceptance rate of 83.90% (95% CI, 82.20–85.60%). Path analysis revealed significant correlations between vaccination acceptance and perceived susceptibility (β = 0.142), perceived benefits (β = 0.129), perceived barriers (β = 0.075), exposure to vaccination advertisements (β = 0.115), and knowledge about seasonal influenza (β = 0.051). Vaccination education efforts should prioritize elucidating the risks associated with the disease and emphasizing the benefits of vaccination. Furthermore, leveraging advertising proves to be an effective strategy for promotion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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13 pages, 1584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immunization of Children under 2 Years Old in the Coastal Hadhramaut Governorate, Yemen, during Public Health Emergencies: A Trend Analysis of 2013–2020

by Suha Ali Batarfi, Rosnah Sutan, Halim Ismail and Abdulla Salem Bin-Ghouth

Vaccines 2024, 12(3), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12030311 - 15 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1412

Abstract

Although immunization is one of the most successful and cost-effective interventions that prevents millions of infant and child deaths yearly, it has failed to achieve its intended goals in some low-income countries. Yemen is currently experiencing the most extreme humanitarian crisis globally, which [...] Read more.

Although immunization is one of the most successful and cost-effective interventions that prevents millions of infant and child deaths yearly, it has failed to achieve its intended goals in some low-income countries. Yemen is currently experiencing the most extreme humanitarian crisis globally, which has affected health and worsened its economy and political governance instability. There are few reports on Yemeni vaccination statuses. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of the public health emergency crises on childhood immunization in Yemen. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted in the Coastal Hadhramaut Governorate, Yemen. Secondary data from governorate annual reports for 2013–2020 were extracted. The assessment of the annual immunization coverage rate according to each vaccine was tabulated. The analysis revealed that the 2013–2019 vaccination coverage in Coastal Hadhramaut demonstrated an increasing trend. However, vaccination coverage decreased for all vaccines in 2015–2016 and 2020. Although all three doses of the pentavalent vaccine demonstrated >85% coverage in all years, the coverage of the first and second doses decreased in 2016, and the coverage of all doses decreased in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health emergencies negatively affected routine immunization coverage in Yemen. The trend correlated with the humanitarian crisis and other research findings in Yemen. The national response to public health threats during emergency crises must involve strengthening the program for monitoring and evaluating vaccine-preventable diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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13 pages, 248 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Hesitancy among the Elderly in Malaysian Residential Care Homes: A Cross-Sectional Study in Klang Valley

by Kai Wei Lee, Sook Fan Yap, Hooi Tin Ong, Sien Leong Liew, Myo Oo and Kye Mon Min Swe

Vaccines 2024, 12(3), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12030268 - 4 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1795

Abstract

The elderly are considered a high-risk group for severe outcomes and death from COVID-19 infection. Given the emergence of new COVID variants and the immunity provided by vaccines waning over time, booster doses of the vaccine have been advocated for those at risk [...] Read more.

The elderly are considered a high-risk group for severe outcomes and death from COVID-19 infection. Given the emergence of new COVID variants and the immunity provided by vaccines waning over time, booster doses of the vaccine have been advocated for those at risk to stay protected. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with hesitancy toward the second booster of the COVID-19 vaccine among the elderly residing in residential care homes. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 24 residential care homes in the Klang Valley using a face-to-face interview questionnaire. The study population included individuals aged 60 and above who had been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 up to the first booster dose. Second-booster hesitancy was assessed using the Oxford Vaccine Hesitancy Scale with seven items, the aggregate score of which ranges from seven to thirty-five; the higher the score, the greater the level of hesitancy. Multivariate linear regression was employed to determine factors associated with second-booster hesitancy, and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Data from 401 elderly individuals were included for analysis. The mean score of the Oxford Vaccine Hesitancy Scale was 21.6 ± 7.2. Predictors of second booster hesitancy were identified. Age, Indian ethnicity, being a recipient of the Sinovac vaccine as the first COVID-19 booster, experiencing the death of close friends or immediate family members following COVID-19 vaccination, and negative messages (indicating that taking a booster dose is harmful) from caregivers, friends, or family members were found to be associated with an increased second-booster-hesitancy score. Conversely, positive messages (indicating that taking a booster is helpful) from the government and caregivers, friends, or family members were identified as predictors associated with a reduction in the second-booster-hesitancy score. While vaccines effectively combat severe COVID-19, the majority of the elderly hesitate before taking the second booster. Their hesitancy, rooted in the perception of a low self risk and reliance on protection from the initial doses, emphasizes the need for intervention by relevant bodies. Taking into consideration the risk, albeit relatively low, of potentially serious side effects following COVID-19 vaccinations, it is imperative that transparent, appropriate, and positive messaging regarding booster vaccines, particularly in the context of the elderly from residential care homes, be available. Encouraging this high-risk group to embrace the second booster aligns with the goal of maximizing protection within the vulnerable elderly population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

13 pages, 831 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acceptance of Flu Vaccine among Parents of Diabetic Children in Jordan

by Walid Al-Qerem, Anan Jarab, Judith Eberhardt, Fawaz Alasmari, Alaa Hammad and Sarah Abu Hour

Vaccines 2024, 12(3), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12030262 - 1 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1794

Abstract

There is a critical need to understand vaccine decision-making in high-risk groups. This study explored flu vaccine acceptance among Jordanian parents of diabetic children. Employing a cross-sectional approach, 405 parents from multiple healthcare centers across Jordan were recruited through stratified sampling, ensuring a [...] Read more.

There is a critical need to understand vaccine decision-making in high-risk groups. This study explored flu vaccine acceptance among Jordanian parents of diabetic children. Employing a cross-sectional approach, 405 parents from multiple healthcare centers across Jordan were recruited through stratified sampling, ensuring a broad representation of socioeconomic backgrounds. A structured questionnaire, distributed both in-person and online, evaluated their knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of the flu vaccine for their diabetic children. The results indicated that only 6.4% of the study sample reported vaccinating their children against the flu annually, and only 23% are planning to vaccinate their children this year. A multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed notable variability in responses. Specifically, parents with a positive attitude towards the flu vaccine and those with older children had less odds to reject the vaccine (OR = 0.589, 95% CI (0.518–0.670), p < 0.001 and OR = 0.846, 95% CI (0.736–0.974), p = 0.02, respectively). Conversely, prevalent misconceptions regarding vaccine safety and efficacy emerged as significant barriers to acceptance. Our findings advocate for targeted educational programs that directly address and debunk these specific misconceptions. Additionally, strengthened healthcare communication to provide clear, consistent information about the flu vaccine’s safety and benefits is vital to help enhance vaccine uptake among this vulnerable population, emphasizing the need to address specific concerns and misinformation directly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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16 pages, 479 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Vaccinations, Trust, and Vaccination Decisions within the Refugee Community of Calgary, Canada

by Fariba Aghajafari, Laurent Wall, Amanda Weightman, Alyssa Ness, Deidre Lake, Krishna Anupindi, Gayatri Moorthi, Bryan Kuk, Maria Santana and Annalee Coakley

Vaccines 2024, 12(2), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12020177 - 9 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1728

Abstract

Refugee decisions to vaccinate for COVID-19 are a complex interplay of factors which include individual perceptions, access barriers, trust, and COVID-19 specific factors, which contribute to lower vaccine uptake. To address this, the WHO calls for localized solutions to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake [...] Read more.

Refugee decisions to vaccinate for COVID-19 are a complex interplay of factors which include individual perceptions, access barriers, trust, and COVID-19 specific factors, which contribute to lower vaccine uptake. To address this, the WHO calls for localized solutions to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake for refugees and evidence to inform future vaccination efforts. However, limited evidence engages directly with refugees about their experiences with COVID-19 vaccinations. To address this gap, researchers conducted qualitative interviews (N = 61) with refugees (n = 45), sponsors of refugees (n = 3), and key informants (n = 13) connected to local COVID-19 vaccination efforts for refugees in Calgary. Thematic analysis was conducted to synthesize themes related to vaccine perspectives, vaccination experiences, and patient intersections with policies and systems. Findings reveal that refugees benefit from ample services that are delivered at various stages, that are not solely related to vaccinations, and which create multiple positive touch points with health and immigration systems. This builds trust and vaccine confidence and promotes COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Despite multiple factors affecting vaccination decisions, a key reason for vaccination was timely and credible information delivered through trusted intermediaries and in an environment that addressed refugee needs and concerns. As refugees placed trust and relationships at the core of decision-making and vaccination, it is recommended that healthcare systems work through trust and relationships to reach refugees. This can be targeted through culturally responsive healthcare delivery that meets patients where they are, including barrier reduction measures such as translation and on-site vaccinations, and educational and outreach partnerships with private groups, community organizations and leaders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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12 pages, 273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining Influenza Vaccination Patterns and Barriers: Insights into Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Diabetic Adults (A Cross-Sectional Survey)

by Walid Al-Qerem, Anan Jarab, Abdel Qader AlBawab, Alaa Hammad, Badi’ah Alazab, Daoud Abu Husein, Judith Eberhardt and Fawaz Alasmari

Vaccines 2023, 11(11), 1689; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11111689 - 3 Nov 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1691

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent global chronic condition affecting individuals of all ages. People with diabetes face an elevated risk of lower respiratory tract infections such as pulmonary tuberculosis, influenza, and pneumonia. Additionally, the influenza virus increases the likelihood of deep venous thrombosis [...] Read more.

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent global chronic condition affecting individuals of all ages. People with diabetes face an elevated risk of lower respiratory tract infections such as pulmonary tuberculosis, influenza, and pneumonia. Additionally, the influenza virus increases the likelihood of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of diabetic patients regarding the influenza vaccine. This study involved 418 diabetic patients (53.3% female) at Jordanian outpatient respiratory clinics, with an average age of 49 (±14) years. The results showed that 70.6% had never received the influenza vaccine, and only 23.7% intended to do so in the current year. A positive attitude toward the influenza vaccine significantly reduced hesitancy to get vaccinated (OR = 0.505, 95% CI 0.424–0.601, p < 0.001). The duration of diabetes exhibited a positive association with vaccine hesitancy (OR = 1.053, 95% CI 1.006–1.102, p = 0.028). The primary reason for not getting vaccinated was a lack of awareness of its benefits (42.6%). Future health education programs should emphasize the importance of the influenza vaccine for diabetic patients and address their concerns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

12 pages, 912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mpox Vaccination Hesitancy and Its Associated Factors among Men Who Have Sex with Men in China: A National Observational Study

by Min Zheng, Min Du, Guanghong Yang, Yongming Yao, Xiaohan Qian, Yuan Zhi, Lin Ma, Rui Tao, Zhilin Zhu, Feng Zhou, Siqi Dai, Jie Yang, Min Liu and Jue Liu

Vaccines 2023, 11(9), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11091432 - 30 Aug 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 1558

Abstract

More than 400 confirmed mpox cases have been reported in China. The mpox vaccination is crucial to mitigate mpox transmission, especially for at-risk populations. This study aimed to determine mpox vaccination hesitancy and its associated factors in Chinese men who have sex with [...] Read more.

More than 400 confirmed mpox cases have been reported in China. The mpox vaccination is crucial to mitigate mpox transmission, especially for at-risk populations. This study aimed to determine mpox vaccination hesitancy and its associated factors in Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM). This nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted among 7538 Chinese MSM in 27 MSM social organizations from 21 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions of China from 31 July to 4 August 2023. Of them, the rate of mpox vaccination hesitancy was 5.59% (421/7538). The most common reason for mpox vaccination hesitation was concerns of safety and side effects (62.71%, 264/421), followed by concerns of privacy (38.24%, 161/421), thoughts of impossible infection (37.53%, 158/421), no effectiveness in preventing reinfection (30.88%, 130/421), and no worry about infection (12.35%, 52/421). Regarding the concerning characteristics of the vaccines, concerns of vaccine safety ranked first (71.74%, 5408/7538), followed by vaccine effectiveness (14.05%, 1059/7538), vaccine costs (7.35%, 554/7538), and the continuity of vaccine effectiveness (3.91%, 295/7538). The highest odds ratio of mpox vaccination hesitation was seen in MSM who were infected with mpox virus (aOR = 2.38; 95%CI = 1.08, 5.23), followed by those aged ≥60 years (aOR = 2.25; 95%CI = 1.31, 3.88), those who were unemployed (aOR = 1.66; 95%CI = 1.25, 2.19), and those who had an education level of postgraduate and above (aOR = 1.55; 95%CI = 1.01, 2.37). However, MSM who had a higher level of mpox-related knowledge (moderate: aOR = 0.53; 95%CI = 0.36, 0.77; high: aOR = 0.30; 95%CI = 0.23, 0.40) had a lower odds ratio of mpox vaccination hesitation. MSM in China had low hesitancy toward mpox vaccination. The safety and effectiveness of the vaccine and privacy were important aspects of hesitancy. Health education on mpox-related knowledge should be encouraged to promote future vaccination plans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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15 pages, 1323 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Intention to Vaccinate against COVID-19 in Adolescents: A Systematic Review

by Shyn Yi Tan, Prawira Oka and Ngiap Chuan Tan

Vaccines 2023, 11(8), 1393; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11081393 - 21 Aug 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2335

Abstract

Background: Multiple COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use in adolescents; these vaccines play a critical role in limiting the transmission and impact of COVID-19. This systematic review aims to summarize the willingness of adolescents aged 10 to 19 years to receive the [...] Read more.

Background: Multiple COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use in adolescents; these vaccines play a critical role in limiting the transmission and impact of COVID-19. This systematic review aims to summarize the willingness of adolescents aged 10 to 19 years to receive the COVID-19 vaccination and the factors influencing their decision. Methods: A search of literature published between January 2018 and August 2022 was performed in Medline©, EMBASE©. and CINAHL© electronic databases. Studies published in English that assessed adolescents’ intentions to receive the COVID-19 vaccine were included. Qualitative studies and those unrelated to the COVID-19 vaccine were excluded. The study was conducted based on the PRISMA guidelines. Results: Of the 1074 articles retrieved, 13 were included in the final review. Most studies were conducted in the US (n = 3) and China (n = 3). The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among adolescents was 63% (95% CI: 52–73%). Factors influencing intent to vaccinate were divided into five categories: “Socio-demographic determinants”; “Communication about COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination”; “COVID-19 vaccine and related issues”; “COVID-19 infection and related issues” and “Other determinants”. The enablers were sociodemographic factors including older age, higher education level, good health perception, and parental norms in terms of parental vaccination acceptance; perceived vaccine effectiveness and safety; a desire to protect themselves and others; recent vaccination; and anxiety. The barriers were concerns over vaccine effectiveness, safety, and long-term side effects; low perceived necessity and risk of infection; and needle phobia. Conclusions: This review highlighted that adolescents’ intent to vaccinate is driven by a desire to protect themselves and others. However, concerns over vaccine effectiveness, safety, and long-term side effects hinder COVID-19 vaccine uptake. To improve vaccination acceptance, policymakers should address adolescents’ concerns via more targeted public health messaging, while schools should leverage peer norms to positively influence vaccination intent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake)

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Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake

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