Adult Immunization Among Health Care Personnel and Target Groups in Iran

Abstract

Background: Immunization is an essential issue in primary health care, which has a tremendous impact on infection prevention. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the immunization status of health care personnel (HCP) and adult patients admitted at teaching hospitals. Patients and Methods: A total of 1506 HCP and patients were enrolled according to 13 target groups. The immunization profile was evaluated based on adjusted recommendations of Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) according to the available vaccines in Iran. Results: The rate of immunization was more than 50% only in hepatitis B vaccination among HCP (64.5%) and tetanus-diphtheria (Td) booster dose among HCP and pregnant women (54.6% and 72.9%, respectively). The other vaccines according to the target groups had no acceptable rate, especially with respect to influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations among patients with underlying chronic diseases. Conclusions: The low rate of immunization warrants implementation of novel protocols in adults as well as implying on educational programs in Iran.