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image of Influenza (Flu) and Vaccination related Knowledge & Attitudes among the General Population of UAE

Abstract

Background

Influenza is one of the most common airborne infections globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), influenza leads to 3 to 5 million cases of severe illness each year, with 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory deaths annually, positioning it as a significant public health threat.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes toward influenza and vaccination among the general population in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed through social media platforms, such as Facebook and WhatsApp, across various emirates in the UAE. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. The study invited participation from individuals aged 18 years and older, both male and female.

Results

A total of 265 participants responded to the survey, including 142 males (53.6%) and 123 females (46.4%). Most respondents had insurance coverage (n = 208; 78.5%), and 83.4% were nonsmokers. A significantly higher proportion of males believed that the influenza vaccine is administered during the winter season (63% . 37%, P = 0.01) and that it is recommended for elderly individuals over 65 years old (58.2% . 41.8%, = 0.023). Married individuals were significantly more likely to have heard of the influenza vaccine (53.7%) compared to divorced and unmarried respondents (4% and 42.4%, = 0.019). Additionally, the majority of respondents with insurance coverage perceived the vaccine as safe, albeit with some side effects (70.4%, = 0.012).

Conclusion

This study concluded good knowledge and positive attitude towards influenza vaccination. The study also found no significant gender differences in flu-related knowledge or attitudes among the participants. Moreover, the population surveyed generally considered vaccination to be safe for administration.

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2024-11-11
2024-12-27

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/content/journals/cdth/10.2174/0115748855332902241030064540
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Influenza (Flu) and Vaccination related Knowledge & Attitudes among the General Population of UAE
Bentham Science Publishers ; https://doi.org/10.2174/0115748855332902241030064540
/content/journals/cdth/10.2174/0115748855332902241030064540
/content/journals/cdth/10.2174/0115748855332902241030064540
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keywords: knowledge ; flu ; vaccine ; influenza ; attitudes

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