Vaccination status and perception of influenza vaccination in the Polish population

Influenza is still considered to be the most dangerous infectious disease of the twenty-first century. Outbreaks of influenza occur worldwide and affect all ages. The disease is severe, often with threatening complications and can lead to death, albeit many people have it in disregard. One of the main ways of preventing the disease is vaccination. The most effective method of prevention against influenza illness and its complications are annual vaccinations. Vaccinations, although recommended by the Ministry of Health in Poland, are not subject to refund. This paper presents the results of research conducted with the use of an anonymous questionnaire containing 18 questions to be completed by parents of school children, students of technical and medical universities, patients, medical staff, and people over 65 years of age. The study was conducted in the season of 2012/2013 in Poland. The survey involved 1,203 people in various age groups with different educational background. The analysis of the study shows that respondents very rarely use this form of prevention. Even if the vaccination were refunded, the percentage of people vaccinated against influenza would not increase significantly. Among the respondents, those who are in favor of influenza vaccination are in the minority.