New flu vaccines study findings reported from S. Shahrabani and co-authors
2009 JUL 8 - (NewsRx.com) -- "The objective of this study was to identify factors that influence the decision whether or not to get the influenza (flu) vaccine among nurses in Israel by using the health belief model (HBM). A questionnaire distributed among 299 nurses in Israel in winter 2005/2006 included (1) socio-demographic information; (2) variables based on the HBM, including susceptibility, seriousness, benefits, barriers and cues to action; and (3) knowledge about influenza and the vaccine, and health motivation," investigators in Israel report. "A probit model was used to analyze the data. In Israel, the significant HBM categories affecting nurses' decision to get a flu shot are the perceived benefits from vaccination and Cues to action. In addition, nurses who are vaccinated have higher levels of (1) knowledge regarding the vaccine and influenza, (2) perceived seriousness of the illness, (3) perceived susceptibility, and (4) health motivation than do those who do not get the vaccine. Immunization of healthcare workers may reduce the risk of flu outbreaks in all types of healthcare facilities and reduce morbidity and mortality among high-risk patients," wrote S. Shahrabani and colleagues. The researchers concluded: "In order to increase vaccination rates among nurses, efforts should be made to educate them regarding the benefits of vaccination and the potential health consequences of influenza for their patients, and themselves.." Shahrabani and colleagues published their study in European Journal of Health Economics (Factors affecting nurses' decision to get the flu vaccine. European Journal of Health Economics, 2009;10(2):227-231). For additional information, contact S. Shahrabani, Max Stern Academy College Emek Yezreel, Economics & Management Department, IL-19300 Emek Yezreel, Israel. The publisher of the European Journal of Health Economics can be contacted at: Springer, 233 Spring St., New York, NY 10013, USA. Keywords: Israel, Biotechnology, Flu Vaccines, Immunization, Influenza Vaccines, Vaccination. This article was prepared by Vaccine Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Vaccine Weekly via NewsRx.com.
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