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International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology, ISSN 2277-2812 E-ISSN: 2249-8109

Volume 2, Issue 3, 2012 pp 25-29

Research Article

A Longitudinal Study of Attitudes and Adverse Reactions of Influenza Vaccination among Health Care Personnel

Kriti A Patel^1*, J.D. Naik², S.S. Rajderkar³, Sanjay K Jathar⁴

^{1, 4}  Resident, Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Miraj (MS) INDIA.

² Associate Prof., ³ Prof. & Head of Dept., Dept. of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Miraj (MS) INDIA.

Academic Editor:  Dr. Pawar D.D.

Influenza (Flu) pandemics are caused by emergence of, Re-assorted Novel Influenza A H1N1 viruses that have recently adapted to humans. It continues to be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Health Care Personnel (HCP), the backbone of health care delivery system, have been identified as an important source of influenza for patients. Vaccination is a useful but underused means of preventing the illness and deaths but the coverage is lower than expected among HCP. Influenza vaccination programs for HCP have not met wide acceptance and it is important to explore their attitudes behind vaccine uptake. Objectives: To study the attitudes/beliefs behind vaccination. To study the frequency and pattern of adverse reactions following influenza vaccination in HCP. Materials and Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted in 130 HCP, working in Govt. Medical College & Hospital (Miraj & Sangli), participating voluntarily, who had taken influenza vaccine (Nasovac or Injectable). They were followed for 1 year period (Aug�2010 to July �2011) from the day of vaccination. The relevant information was recorded in predesigned proforma, after informed consent. Results: Mean age group of the participants was 33.8�10.2 years. 87(67%) of the total subjects had procured the vaccine from private source but 91(70%) preferred Govt. hospital for vaccination. 78(60%) of the total subjects gave the reason for vaccination as personal protection. 71.5% participants took nasal vaccine, of which 52(56%) subjects told the reason for its selection being the ease of administration. The overall incidence of side reactions after vaccination was 40%. No significant difference was found between adverse reactions following Nasal or Injectable vaccine. Most of the reactions were mild & seen during first 3 days of vaccination which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Govt. hospital was the preferred place for vaccination by HCP. Vaccination of both types of vaccine is associated with mild adverse reactions during first 3 days with declining frequency over 1 year. The uptake of influenza vaccine is poor among HCP.