Influenza vaccine uptake among staff in care homes in Nottinghamshire: a random cluster sample survey

To establish uptake of influenza vaccine amongst care home clinical staff in Greater Nottingham, and to investigate what could be done to improve vaccine uptake in this group.

Postal questionnaire surveys were used. In the first instance, a total sample survey was used. In the second instance, a sample of care home staff was surveyed, randomized at the care home level.

A postal questionnaire completed by care home matrons was used to obtain a preliminary estimate of staff vaccine uptake. Individual staff questionnaires were then used to validate this finding, and measure attitudes, beliefs and behaviours associated with vaccination.

Vaccine uptake among those working in care homes with nursing was found to be low. Vaccine uptake was higher in homes with a policy recommending vaccination of staff. Most respondents who had received vaccination reported that they had done so because of an existing medical condition, rather than because of being a healthcare worker. A statistically significant relationship (P=0.02) was found between individuals' reported beliefs on how well they could resist influenza and their vaccination status.

All care homes for the elderly should have a vaccination policy which recommends staff vaccination. Educational campaigns, vaccination in the workplace and free provision of the influenza vaccine may help to improve vaccine uptake in this group.