Vaccination coverage of healthcare professionals in an infectious diseases department

Objectives

The study's objective was to evaluate with a standardized questionnaire the knowledge of healthcare workers (HCWs) regarding occupational vaccinations and their vaccination coverage.

Population and Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted in the department of infectious diseases of a 1796 bed-teaching hospital in Dijon, France.

Results

Fifty-seven (93%) out of 61 HCPs completed the questionnaire. Vaccination against HVB was the most frequently mentioned vaccination (79%), followed by BCG (66%), and combine vaccine against diphteria, tetanus, and polio (DTP) (66 %). Influenza was the most often quoted among recommended vaccinations (70%), followed by measles (61%), pertussis (39%), and varicella (14%). The number of correct answers was significantly correlated with age of participants, being a physician, and having had courses on vaccination. Almost all HCPs were up to date for mandatory vaccinations. In 2009 to 2010, vaccination rates against seasonal flu and H1N1 flu reached 88%. Only 52% of HCPs knew about their pertussis immunization and only a third of those born before 1980 had been tested for measles.

Conclusions

HCPs knowledge of mandatory vaccinations is adequate but more limited for recommended vaccinations. Information on influenza vaccination has significantly improved its perception among HCPs resulting in a better adhesion to vaccination.