Influenza vaccination coverage of pharmacists in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic

Einleitung Despite relevant recommendations, influenza vaccination coverage is generally low amongst healthcare workers. However, limited studies have investigated the vaccine hesitancy in pharmacists. The study aim was to evaluate attitudes of pharmacists toward seasonal influenza vaccination. Additionally, we aimed to assess the intentions to vaccinate against COVID-19 and seasonal influenza during winter 2020/21.

Methoden In December 2020, a standardized questionnaire of this cross-sectional study was sent electronically to all members of the swiss pharmacist association (PharmaSuisse).

Ergebnisse In total, 569 pharmacists out of 5900 completed the online survey. Self-reported influenza vaccination coverage in 2019/20 was 48.3%, with statistical difference relating to personal certification to administer vaccines (P<.001) and history of past flu vaccination (P<.001). The most frequent reason for vaccination in 2019/20 stated was believing that all healthcare workers should get vaccinated against influenza (68.2%), while the most common reason for not receiving the vaccine was believing that they are not at risk for contracting the flu (68.1%).  Immunized and certified pharmacists were more likely to recommend seasonal flu vaccination to their family, colleagues and clients. Willingness to accept COVID-19 and influenza 2020/21 vaccines were 66.3%% and 63.2%, respectively.

Fazit This study has shown that almost half of pharmacists were vaccinated in 2019/20 and that vaccination acceptance increased noticeably during the pandemic. Primary predictors of flu vaccination acceptance and recommendation attitudes were past influenza vaccination behavior and personal certification to administer vaccines.

Publication History

Article published online:
02 September 2021