Association between knowledge of influenza vaccine and vaccination status among general population attending primary health care centers in Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Influenza vaccination is essential for population health. However, despite its strong recommendation, studies indicated a low rate of vaccine uptake. This study aimed to explore knowledge and attitudes towards influenza vaccinations among the general population attending primary health care centers in Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 381 participants from four health care centers in Al-Madinah city. A validated self-administered questionnaire was used. It includes questions on sociodemographic variables, knowledge, attitude, and vaccine uptake. Chi square test and simple logistic regression test were used to assess association between vaccination status and study variables. RESULTS: Mean (SD) age of participant was 37 (12.5) and age ranged from 18 to 65 years. The majority were male (64.6%). Three out of seven items were answered correctly by most of the participants. The majority were classified as not knowledgeable (53.5%). More than half have been vaccinated with influenza vaccine (58.3%). Factors associated with vaccination uptake were Age group (P < 0.05), Marital status (P < 0.05), education level (P < 0.05) and Knowledge (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The study showed poor knowledge and attitude toward influenza vaccination among general population but a relatively accepted rate of vaccine uptake. Vaccination uptake was associated with knowledge, marital status, education, and age. This study recommends implementation of educational programs to increase the awareness among the general population.