Influence of the Workplace on Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccination Acceptance Among Swiss Healthcare Workers During Season 2021/22.

OBJECTIVES

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are essential in preventing and controlling infectious diseases and can influence public trust in vaccines. This study compares vaccination behaviors among HCWs in a Swiss hospital setting with those in primary care and identifies key factors influencing vaccine acceptance.

METHODS

An online questionnaire was distributed to HCWs at a cantonal hospital in Central Switzerland. The results were compared with a previous nationwide survey of German-speaking HCWs in primary care using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Influenza vaccination coverage was 37.2% in hospitals and 59.8% in primary care. COVID-19 vaccination rates were high in both settings (89.1% and 92.7%, respectively). Physicians and older HCWs were significantly more likely to be vaccinated than nurses and younger staff. Vaccination training and prior vaccination history were associated with higher vaccination rates and stronger recommendation behavior. The most common reasons supporting vaccination were self-protection and patient protection.

CONCLUSION

Vaccination behavior among HCWs differs considerably by healthcare setting and profession. Targeted vaccination training, particularly for younger HCWs and nurses in hospital settings, may help increase vaccine acceptance.