Determinants of influenza vaccination in health staff: 2009-2010 season

Objectives: To determine vaccination coverage against seasonal influenza and the new A (H1N1) influenza virus among healthcare personnel during the 2009-2010 season and to identify its determining factors. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study among healthcare staff at the General University Hospital in Alicante (Spain) during the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 influenza vaccination campaigns. The 2009-2010 vaccination campaign was subdivided into two phases. In the first phase, from 1st October to 19th November, 2009, the seasonal influenza vaccine was administered; in the second phase, from 16th November to 30th December, 2009, vaccination against the new A (H1N1) influenza virus was performed. Each of the vaccine programs was preceded by a specific vaccination promotion campaign. Healthcare staff were asked to complete a brief self-administered questionnaire containing a list of reasons for being vaccinated. Coverage during both vaccination campaigns was calculated, and the results, both overall and for each profession, were then compared using a Chi-square test. Results: Coverage against seasonal influenza was 31% and that against the new A (HI NI) influenza virus was 22.2% (p < 0.05); these percentages were 36% and 34% respectively in medical personnel (NS), 33% and 24% respectively in nursing personnel (p < 0.001), and 21% and 12% respectively in nursing assistants (p < 0.001). The main reason given for being vaccinated was self-protection. Conclusions: The low coverage achieved is a public health problem. Specific intervention programs should be implemented. (C) 2010 SESPAS. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.