Authors (including presenting author) :
Lam WY(1), Chan WH(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Orthopaedics & Traumatology department, Tseung Kwan O Hospital
Introduction :
Influenza affects a significant portion of the global population annually, resulting in major health, social and economic impacts. Active immunization is strongly recommended, especially for at- risk populations. However, increasing influenza vaccination coverage among healthcare workers is a challenge. Despite several vaccination promotion campaigns, such as use campaigns, rewards, education and free vaccines, our workplace has seen comparatively lower vaccination rates – approximately 40% in the last year. Thus, a vaccination program tailored for our workplace should be developed to help achieve herd immunity and improve the vaccination rates. The program has advocated for peer group influence in vaccination campaigns, measuring vaccine-related behaviors and addressing the Vaccine-Hesitant Moment to foster a positive culture to improve the vaccination rate.
Objectives :
To promulgate and develop a positive culture that increases the seasonal influenza vaccination rate by 30% during the 2024-25 influenza season.
Methodology :
Pre-Survey: Conduct a pre-survey on seasonal influenza vaccination among the colleagues to extend an empathetic understanding of what factors might be contributing to their hesitancy and to do so, it is crucial to define what exactly vaccine hesitancy is. Addressed the misconception and acted on the concern of colleagues by approaching them one to one and providing support. Peer Ambassadors: Engage peer ambassadors to improve vaccination knowledge, beliefs and attitude towards vaccination. Encourage good peer influence and boost up staff morale to develop a positive culture. Utilize peer champions within the healthcare team to advocate for vaccination as peer recommendations can be very persuasive. Share regular updates on progress towards the vaccination goal. Promotional Martials: Launch seasonal flu vaccination videos and eye-catching posters in common areas to provide comprehensive up-to-date information about the benefits and importance of the influenza vaccine. Reassurance and Feedback: Reassure colleagues during vaccination and gather feedback from healthcare workers to continually improve.
Result & Outcome :
A total of 43 pre-surveys were collected. A high proportion of healthcare workers were hesitant to vaccinate against seasonal influenza due to concerns about complications and safety. However, positive changes in beliefs and attitudes were observed following the intervention. By November 30, 2024 the seasonal flu vaccination rate increased from a mean of 41% to 71%. The healthcare workers reported positive feedback regarding their vaccination experience.
