Assessing the Understanding and Perception of the Significance of Seasonal Immune Care among the Taif Population during the Pilgrimage Seasons: Emphasis on Influenza and Meningitis Vaccines

Abstract

Background: A vaccine contains a disease-like agent, often consisting of the microbe, its toxins or one of the surface proteins, which is weakened or killed. The components of the vaccine trigger and encourage the body to recognize the vaccine as a foreign body. A vaccination is critical when considering the number of mortalities, accidents and complications for non-vaccine recipients.

Objectives: The current study aimed for the evaluation of the prevalence of understanding among the Taif population of the importance of seasonal immunization, particularly influenza and meningitis vaccines, during Omrah and Hajj seasons.

Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in the province of Taif using an online questionnaire to determine the level of awareness and knowledge among public individuals about influenza and meningitis vaccines. About 467 responses were included in the study.

Results: The results of the current study showed high knowledge regarding the significance of seasonal immunization among the general population although the majority of the population (i.e., 68.7%) do not have health-related backgrounds. It showed that 66.17% of participants were conscious of the effects of seasonal immunization. The study showed a considerable increase in the number of people who knew the purpose (i.e., 90%) compared with only 10% who were not aware. Moreover, approximately 78.80% of the participants reported that the key reason for seasonal immunization before and during the pilgrimage seasons was diseases transmission. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the population the danger of seasonal flu and its immunization (i.e. 50%). Nevertheless, with respect to the risk of meningitis and if immunization with meningitis should be required, the findings were substantially high. Around 88% of the population accepted that meningitis is dangerous and vaccination is necessary.

Conclusion: The level of awareness about influenza and meningitis vaccination is comparatively high, while the commitments to seasonal immunization are fairly low. In order to increase annual seasonally vaccinated need, more information is needed and explanations of the low level of the side effects after immunization. For the seasonal vaccination recommendations, the attention of health officials is vital to enhanced protection for communities during pilgrimage seasons