Uptake of and attitudes towards influenza vaccination among Danish hospital healthcare workers

INTRODUCTION Until now, influenza vaccination has not been officially recommended to healthcare workers (HCWs) in Denmark. Even so, many hospitals have been offering vaccination for their HCWs for some years. Nonetheless, uptake has remained low. We conducted a survey to determine predictors for vaccine uptake and to clarify the attitude of Danish HCWs towards employer-sponsored influenza vaccination. METHODS An online questionnaire covering demographics, uptake of and thoughts about the influenza vaccine was distributed by e-mail to hospital staff. Analyses identifying factors associated with vaccine uptake were conducted. RESULTS The response rate was 28% with 3,130 HCWs participating. Overall, 51% had received influenza vaccination. Formerly vaccinated participants were more likely to be vaccinated again. Perception of own gain, patient gain and a workplace recommendation were key incentives for vaccine uptake. The main reported reasons for rejecting vaccination were perceiving immunisation as a private matter, not feeling vulnerable to influenza and fear of vaccine side effects. Women, participants <= 49 years and participants with children living at home were less likely to be vaccinated. CONCLUSIONS To improve influenza vaccine uptake among HCWs, campaigns targeting newly employed staff should be conducted thereby establishing the basis for future vaccination behaviour. Efforts should be made to increase vaccine acceptance among women, younger employees and nursing staff.