Abstract

PARAMEDICAL STAFF ATTITUDE AND BELIEVE REGARDING INFLUENZA ACCINE IN BAGHDAD / IRAQ

*Eman Adil H. and Dr. Atta Ah. Mousa Al-Sarray

Abstract

Background: Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs, It can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to death, Symptoms of influenza infection include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches headache, chills, and fatigue, Some people have vomiting and diarrhea, while others have respiratory symptoms without a fever. Objective: to assess attitude and believe of paramedical staff regarding influenza vaccine. Method: Across sectional study, were carried out for a period of 6 month a total of 400 of paramedical staff were choosing by multistage sample technique by direct interview Result: The current study was conducted on 400 paramedical staff with their mean age 38.4±10.9 years ranging from 20 to 62 years, The knowledge score for the 45 items ranged from(90-125)( Mean±SD 109.1±7.2), knowledge about influenza vaccine is considered high (53.3%), Fear from side effects was the major barrier, while Influenza vaccine is safe and, Preventing the spread of the virus to family were the major reason to receive the vaccine. Conclusion: Misconceptions and access to influenza vaccine were barriers to uptake of influenza vaccine. Beliefs about influenza vaccination have significant effects on HCW seasonal influenza vaccine uptake. We recommend targeting these beliefs when designing educational programs for HCW regarding influenza vaccination. Recommendation: Medical programs need to emphasis the benefits of influenza vaccination in the protection of healthcare workers and patient safety across the medical education program.

Keywords: Influenza, vaccination, Baghdad, attitude, believe.