Factors associated with influenza vaccine adherence among health care workers in Abu Dhabi

Abstract

Background: Influenza outbreaks rapidly threaten public health, making vaccination a critical tool in reducing transmission. Health care workers (HCWs), especially those in direct patient care roles within all health care settings, are encouraged to receive annual influenza vaccinations to enhance their immunity and ensure patient safety.

Objectives: This study aimed to identify and describe the factors associated with HCWs’ adherence to annual influenza vaccination within a United Arab Emirates (UAE) hospital and provide recommendations to improve adherence rates.

Method: Using a quantitative approach, a questionnaire based on the Health Belief Model and existing literature was administered to all 2,080 staff members of the UAE hospital under study. Of these, 1018 participants completed the questionnaire.

Results: The study uncovered several key factors influencing HCWs’ influenza vaccine uptake. Notably, social influence from colleagues emerged as a significant factor, alongside barriers, such as inconvenient vaccination times, limited awareness of hospital policies, an absence of follow-up by the hospital administration, a lack of prior influenza cases and fear of injections. Motivational factors included the desire to protect friends and family, employer recommendations, mandatory policies and HCWs’ intrinsic motivation to safeguard patients.

Conclusion: The findings of the study informed recommendations to enhance vaccination rates. These recommendations include health education materials, social media awareness campaigns, mandatory vaccination policies, on-duty vaccination services, free vaccination, flexible post-vaccination recovery time, special sick leave policies and vaccine benefit awareness.

Contribution: These suggestions enable health care organisations to boost employee influenza vaccination rates, aiding public health efforts to cope with seasonal influenza outbreaks.