G-3180

Coverage and Barriers of Influenza Vaccination Among Hospital Staff in Yazd: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Faezesadat Heidari ¹, Amin Badraghe ² ©, Hossein Mazloum Ardakani ³ ℗, Zohreh Akhoundi Meybodi ⁴, Seyed Alireza Mousavi ⁵, Hossein Fallahzadeh ⁶   

 
Abstract

Introduction: Influenza is a common and potentially severe viral respiratory infection that poses significant risks, particularly to healthcare workers due to their close and frequent contact with patients. Despite global recommendations for annual influenza vaccination in this high-risk group, vaccine coverage remains suboptimal in many settings. In Iran, limited data exist regarding the extent of influenza vaccination among hospital personnel and the factors influencing vaccine uptake. This study aimed to assess the coverage of influenza vaccination, identify common adverse effects, and explore barriers to vaccination among the staff of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Yazd, Iran. Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2022 on 200 healthcare personnel randomly selected from various departments of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Yazd. A validated questionnaire assessed demographics, vaccination status, adverse events, and perceived barriers. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were evaluated using CVR, CVI, and Cronbach’s alpha. Incomplete questionnaires were excluded from the analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square and t-tests, were used for data analysis. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. 5. Results: The influenza vaccination rate among participants was 52%. Among the 96 unvaccinated individuals, the most common reasons for refusal were lack of belief in the vaccine’s efficacy (37.5%) and fear of side effects (32.3%). Among vaccinated participants, 54.8% reported no post-vaccination complications. The most frequently reported adverse events were localized pain and bruising at the injection site (24%), and fever and chills (18.3%). Additionally, 22.5% of participants cited lack of vaccination facilities or time off from work as barriers. A striking 85% reported no access to educational workshops or brochures regarding influenza vaccination. There was no statistically significant association between vaccination status and gender, age, or workplace department, although a non-significant trend toward higher uptake with increasing age was observed. Conclusion and Discussion: Despite a moderate influenza vaccination rate among hospital staff, this study highlights persistent barriers—including limited awareness, skepticism about vaccine efficacy, and fear of side effects. Institutional challenges, such as inadequate access to vaccination facilities and insufficient educational efforts, further hinder uptake. To improve coverage and protect both healthcare workers and patients, targeted interventions—such as on-site vaccination programs, flexible scheduling, and evidence-based educational campaigns—are essential. Strengthening institutional support and addressing misconceptions may significantly enhance vaccine acceptance in this high-risk population.

Keywords: Vaccination, Influenza, Hospital staff