T. V. Petrusevych

commu-Current issues in the vaccination of healthcare workers

Current issues in the vaccination of healthcare workers.

OBJECTIVE Aim: To assess healthcare professionals' attitudes toward vaccination, evaluate vaccination coverage, and perform a SWOT analysis of immunoprophylaxis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and Methods: A structured, anonymous 23-item questionnaire assessed knowledge and attitudes toward immunoprophylaxis among healthcare workers (HWs), covering demographics, vaccination awareness, infection prevention practices, attitudes, and professional motivation. The online survey (Google Forms) was conducted from May to December 2025 with ensured anonymity. Vaccination coverage was assessed using records of 1060 HWs from two public healthcare facilities, with comparative analysis across departments. A SWOT analysis was performed. For relative indicators, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, accounting for sampling error associated with sample size (MedStat v.5.2). RESULTS Results: The majority of study participants demonstrated a positive attitude towards immunoprophylaxis: 72.4% (CI: 63.8-81.0) rated it as absolutely positive. However, gaps were identified: correct understanding of current COVID-19 vaccination recommendations was 28% (CI: 19.4-36.6), while 74% (CI: 65.6-82.4) correctly assessed continuation of vaccination schedules. The SWOT analysis showed generally positive attitudes toward vaccination and potential for improving coverage through education and management interventions. CONCLUSION Conclusions: Despite positive attitudes (72.4%) and satisfactory self-assessed knowledge, vaccination coverage among healthcare workers remains low (<30%): 29.7% for tetanus-diphtheria and 27.5% for hepatitis B. This reflects a clear gap between knowledge, motivation, and practice, indicating the need for integrated interventions, including education, communication skills development, and strengthened institutional vaccination policies.