D J Lee1, L Carrillo, L Fleming. 1. Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Miami School of Medicine, FL 33101, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The epidemiologic pattern of hepatitis B vaccination acceptance has not been thoroughly examined in medical first responders. METHODS: A blood-borne pathogen questionnaire was administered to 255 paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in a large, urban fire department. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of hepatitis B vaccination was 78%. The most frequently cited reason for not getting vaccinated was fear of contracting the hepatitis B virus from the vaccination (26%). Vaccination scheduling difficulties (23%) and lack of time to get vaccinated (20%) were also cited. Increased age, being an EMT, and not having obtained the rank of officer were independently and significantly associated with not having been vaccinated. CONCLUSIONS: Educational campaigns for medical first responders are needed to increase vaccination compliance, with a special emphasis on older workers and EMTs. Administrative barriers, such as vaccination scheduling difficulties, should also be addressed.
BACKGROUND: The epidemiologic pattern of hepatitis B vaccination acceptance has not been thoroughly examined in medical first responders. METHODS: A blood-borne pathogen questionnaire was administered to 255 paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in a large, urban fire department. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of hepatitis B vaccination was 78%. The most frequently cited reason for not getting vaccinated was fear of contracting the hepatitis B virus from the vaccination (26%). Vaccination scheduling difficulties (23%) and lack of time to get vaccinated (20%) were also cited. Increased age, being an EMT, and not having obtained the rank of officer were independently and significantly associated with not having been vaccinated. CONCLUSIONS: Educational campaigns for medical first responders are needed to increase vaccination compliance, with a special emphasis on older workers and EMTs. Administrative barriers, such as vaccination scheduling difficulties, should also be addressed.
Authors: Michelle S Glaser; Sydney Chui; Mayris P Webber; Jackson Gustave; Roy Lee; Mary T McLaughlin; Viola Ortiz; David Prezant; Kerry Kelly Journal: Vaccine Date: 2011-06-20 Impact factor: 3.641