STUDENTS' KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARD SAFETY OF INFLUENZA VACCINE INJECTION DURING PREGNANCY AND FOR CHILDREN

Abstract

Introduction: The annual seasonal influenza vaccine has been recommended for all individuals older than six months of age and is of particular importance to pregnant women and small children. The knowledge and attitude of pharmacy students need to be addressed to increase public awareness. Materials and Methods: In this study, a sample of Pharm. D students was selected to run the analysis (n = 55). The responses recorded were either “yes” or “no” to the key questions “influenza vaccine injection is safe”, representing knowledge and “tend to recommend influenza vaccine injection or feel comfortable doing so”, representing attitude. Result and Discussion: Although no statistical difference was found between knowledge and attitude, a high percentage of students were unaware that the influenza vaccine injection is safe for children and pregnant women. Conclusion: Increasing awareness of influenza vaccine injection safety and health education level is a requirement.