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In 2013, in a bid to combat Vaccine Hesitancy (VH) and provide information on vaccines by communicating with the general public and the health community (e.g., healthcare workers and public health operators), the Italian Society of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine (S.It.I.) published the national website “VaccinarSì”. The project was subsequently extended to ten Italian Regions. This led to the creation of the VaccinarSì Network, whose websites are publicly owned. The aim of this work was to present the framework of the websites of the VaccinarSì Network and to analyse user behaviour in the pre-COVID-19-era (dating from each website’s publication until 31 January 2020) and in the COVID-19-era (from 1 February 2020 to 31 January 2021). Some metrics such as the number of visits to the site (sessions, number of users and average session duration), user behaviour (pages viewed, bounce rate and organic search) and the session acquisition path (direct traffic, referrals and social traffic) were searched, extrapolated and processed with Google Analytics. Qualitative and normally distributed quantitative variables were summarised with their absolute (relative) frequencies and means. Statistical differences between the means of the two periods were evaluated through paired t-test. A two-tailed p-value less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. When the total values recorded over the period were compared, an overall increase in metrics was observed—the number of individual users, visits and individual pageviews rose in a statistically significant way. Our study aimed to highlight how combining disciplines such as health education and digital communication via Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) represents the best strategy to support citizens. This approach gives them the tools to become independent and responsible players that are capable of voluntarily and consciously choosing to adhere to vaccination programs. The VaccinarSì Network’s goal for the future is to reach an even wider audience. By building each user’s critical knowledge, this network enables users to be active components of a wider, more empowered community.
Antonella Arghittu; Marco Dettori; Emma Dempsey; Giovanna Deiana; Claudio Angelini; Angela Bechini; Caterina Bertoni; Sara Boccalini; Paolo Bonanni; Sandro Cinquetti; Fabrizio Chiesi; Maria Chironna; Claudio Costantino; Antonio Ferro; Daniel Fiacchini; Giancarlo Icardi; Andrea Poscia; Francesca Russo; Andrea Siddu; Antonietta Spadea; Laura Sticchi; Maria Triassi; Francesco Vitale; Paolo Castiglia. Health Communication in COVID-19 Era: Experiences from the Italian VaccinarSì Network Websites. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 5642 .
AMA StyleAntonella Arghittu, Marco Dettori, Emma Dempsey, Giovanna Deiana, Claudio Angelini, Angela Bechini, Caterina Bertoni, Sara Boccalini, Paolo Bonanni, Sandro Cinquetti, Fabrizio Chiesi, Maria Chironna, Claudio Costantino, Antonio Ferro, Daniel Fiacchini, Giancarlo Icardi, Andrea Poscia, Francesca Russo, Andrea Siddu, Antonietta Spadea, Laura Sticchi, Maria Triassi, Francesco Vitale, Paolo Castiglia. Health Communication in COVID-19 Era: Experiences from the Italian VaccinarSì Network Websites. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (11):5642.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAntonella Arghittu; Marco Dettori; Emma Dempsey; Giovanna Deiana; Claudio Angelini; Angela Bechini; Caterina Bertoni; Sara Boccalini; Paolo Bonanni; Sandro Cinquetti; Fabrizio Chiesi; Maria Chironna; Claudio Costantino; Antonio Ferro; Daniel Fiacchini; Giancarlo Icardi; Andrea Poscia; Francesca Russo; Andrea Siddu; Antonietta Spadea; Laura Sticchi; Maria Triassi; Francesco Vitale; Paolo Castiglia. 2021. "Health Communication in COVID-19 Era: Experiences from the Italian VaccinarSì Network Websites." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 11: 5642.
(1) Background: COVID-19 vaccination campaigns offer the best hope of controlling the pandemic. However, the fast production of COVID-19 vaccines has caused concern among the general public regarding their safety and efficacy. In particular, patients with chronic illnesses, such as celiac disease (CD), may be more fearful. Information on vaccine hesitancy plays a pivotal role in the development of an efficient vaccination campaign. In our study, we aimed to evaluate COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Italian CD patients. (2) Methods: an anonymous questionnaire was sent to CD patients followed at our tertiary referral center for CD in Milan, Italy. Patients were defined as willing, hesitant and refusing. We evaluated the reasons for hesitancy/refusal and the possible determinants, calculating crude and adjusted odds ratios [AdjORs] with 95% confidence intervals [CIs]. (3) Results: the questionnaire was sent to 346 patients with a response rate of 29.8%. Twenty-six (25.2%) of the 103 respondents were hesitant, with a total refusal rate of 4.8%. The main reason was fear of adverse events related to vaccination (68.2%). Among hesitant patients, 23% declared that their opinion was influenced by their CD. The determinants positively influencing willingness to be vaccinated against COVID-19 were adherence to a GFD, perception of good knowledge about COVID-19 and its vaccines, and a positive attitude to previous vaccines (AdjOR 12.71, 95% CI 1.82–88.58, AdjOR 6.50, 95% CI 1.44–29.22, AdjOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.11–4.34, respectively). (4) Conclusions: CD patients should be vaccinated against COVID-19 and a specific campaign to address the determinants of hesitancy should be developed.
Andrea Costantino; Matilde Topa; Leda Roncoroni; Luisa Doneda; Vincenza Lombardo; Davide Stocco; Andrea Gramegna; Claudio Costantino; Maurizio Vecchi; Luca Elli. COVID-19 Vaccine: A Survey of Hesitancy in Patients with Celiac Disease. Vaccines 2021, 9, 511 .
AMA StyleAndrea Costantino, Matilde Topa, Leda Roncoroni, Luisa Doneda, Vincenza Lombardo, Davide Stocco, Andrea Gramegna, Claudio Costantino, Maurizio Vecchi, Luca Elli. COVID-19 Vaccine: A Survey of Hesitancy in Patients with Celiac Disease. Vaccines. 2021; 9 (5):511.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAndrea Costantino; Matilde Topa; Leda Roncoroni; Luisa Doneda; Vincenza Lombardo; Davide Stocco; Andrea Gramegna; Claudio Costantino; Maurizio Vecchi; Luca Elli. 2021. "COVID-19 Vaccine: A Survey of Hesitancy in Patients with Celiac Disease." Vaccines 9, no. 5: 511.
On December 31, 2019, an outbreak of lower respiratory infections was documented in Wuhan caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Since the beginning, SARS-CoV-2 has caused many infections among healthcare workers (HCWs) worldwide. Aims of this study were: a. to compare the distribution among the HCWs and the general population of SARS-CoV-2 infections in Western Sicily and Italy; b. to describe the characteristics of HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the western Sicilian healthcare context during the first wave of the epidemic diffusion in Italy. Incidence and mean age of HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2 were comparable in Western Sicily and in the whole Italian country. The 97.6% of infections occurred in HCWs operating in non-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) working environments, while an equal distribution of cases between hospital and primary care services context was documented. Nurses and healthcare assistants, followed by physicians, were the categories more frequently infected by SARS-CoV-2. The present study suggests that healthcare workers are easily infected compared to the general population but that often infection could equally occur in hospital and non-hospital settings. Safety of HCWs in counteracting the COVID-19 pandemic must be strengthened in hospital [adequate provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), optimization of human resources, implementation of closed and independent groups of HCWs, creation of traffic control building and dedicated areas in every healthcare context] and non-hospital settings (influenza vaccination, adequate psychophysical support, including refreshments during working shifts, adequate rest, and family support).
Claudio Costantino; Emanuele Cannizzaro; Maria Gabriella Verso; Fabio Tramuto; Carmelo Massimo Maida; Guido Lacca; Davide Alba; Livia Cimino; Arianna Conforto; Luigi Cirrincione; Giorgio Graziano; Sara Palmeri; Stefano Pizzo; Vincenzo Restivo; Alessandra Casuccio; Francesco Vitale; Walter Mazzucco. SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Healthcare Professionals and General Population During “First Wave” of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study Conducted in Sicily, Italy. Frontiers in Public Health 2021, 9, 644008 .
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Emanuele Cannizzaro, Maria Gabriella Verso, Fabio Tramuto, Carmelo Massimo Maida, Guido Lacca, Davide Alba, Livia Cimino, Arianna Conforto, Luigi Cirrincione, Giorgio Graziano, Sara Palmeri, Stefano Pizzo, Vincenzo Restivo, Alessandra Casuccio, Francesco Vitale, Walter Mazzucco. SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Healthcare Professionals and General Population During “First Wave” of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study Conducted in Sicily, Italy. Frontiers in Public Health. 2021; 9 ():644008.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Emanuele Cannizzaro; Maria Gabriella Verso; Fabio Tramuto; Carmelo Massimo Maida; Guido Lacca; Davide Alba; Livia Cimino; Arianna Conforto; Luigi Cirrincione; Giorgio Graziano; Sara Palmeri; Stefano Pizzo; Vincenzo Restivo; Alessandra Casuccio; Francesco Vitale; Walter Mazzucco. 2021. "SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Healthcare Professionals and General Population During “First Wave” of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study Conducted in Sicily, Italy." Frontiers in Public Health 9, no. : 644008.
Vaccines constitute highly effective tools for controlling and eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) and are assessed to avert between two to three million deaths per year globally. Healthcare personnel (HCP) constitute a priority group for several vaccinations. However, studies indicate significant rates of vaccine hesitancy among them and, therefore, of acceptance of vaccination recommendations. This cross-sectional study was conducted in a university hospital in Southern Italy to assess the knowledge and attitudes of HCP about VPDs before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, estimate their intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19, and search for determinants that may influence their choice. A self-administered questionnaire was used. HCP improved their knowledge about VPDs and were more favorable to vaccinations in September–December 2020 compared to January–December 2019. Overall, 75% of respondents would get a COVID-19 vaccine. Our findings indicate a potential role of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Italian HCP’s knowledge and attitudes towards vaccines.
Caterina Ledda; Claudio Costantino; Mario Cuccia; Helena C. Maltezou; Venerando Rapisarda. Attitudes of Healthcare Personnel towards Vaccinations before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 2703 .
AMA StyleCaterina Ledda, Claudio Costantino, Mario Cuccia, Helena C. Maltezou, Venerando Rapisarda. Attitudes of Healthcare Personnel towards Vaccinations before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (5):2703.
Chicago/Turabian StyleCaterina Ledda; Claudio Costantino; Mario Cuccia; Helena C. Maltezou; Venerando Rapisarda. 2021. "Attitudes of Healthcare Personnel towards Vaccinations before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 5: 2703.
In addition to diseases shared by both sexes, there are a number of illnesses and injuries that are primarily associated with women
Claudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. Potential Risks and Factors of Women’s Health Promotion. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 9555 .
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Alessandra Casuccio, Vincenzo Restivo. Potential Risks and Factors of Women’s Health Promotion. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (24):9555.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. 2020. "Potential Risks and Factors of Women’s Health Promotion." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 24: 9555.
The last 2019/20 northern hemisphere influenza season overlapped with the first wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Italy was the first western country where severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spread to a significant extent. In this representative cross-sectional survey, we aimed to describe some opinions and attitudes of the Italian general population towards both influenza vaccination and the COVID-19 pandemic, and to identify potential modifiers of the decision-making process regarding the uptake of the 2020/21 influenza vaccine. A total of 2543 responses were analyzed. Although most (74.8%) participants valued influenza vaccination positively and declared that it should be mandatory, some misconceptions around influenza persist. The general practitioner was the main source of trusted information on influenza vaccines, while social networks were judged to be the least reliable. Younger and less affluent individuals, subjects not vaccinated in the previous season, and those living in smaller communities showed lower odds of receiving the 2020/21 season influenza vaccination. However, the COVID-19 pandemic may have positively influenced the propensity of being vaccinated against 2020/21 seasonal influenza. In order to increase influenza vaccination coverage rates multidisciplinary targeted interventions are needed. The role of general practitioners remains crucial in increasing influenza vaccine awareness and acceptance by effective counselling.
Alexander Domnich; Maura Cambiaggi; Alessandro Vasco; Luca Maraniello; Filippo Ansaldi; Vincenzo Baldo; Paolo Bonanni; Giovanna Elisa Calabrò; Claudio Costantino; Chiara De Waure; Giovanni Gabutti; Vincenzo Restivo; Caterina Rizzo; Francesco Vitale; Riccardo Grassi. Attitudes and Beliefs on Influenza Vaccination during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results from a Representative Italian Survey. Vaccines 2020, 8, 711 .
AMA StyleAlexander Domnich, Maura Cambiaggi, Alessandro Vasco, Luca Maraniello, Filippo Ansaldi, Vincenzo Baldo, Paolo Bonanni, Giovanna Elisa Calabrò, Claudio Costantino, Chiara De Waure, Giovanni Gabutti, Vincenzo Restivo, Caterina Rizzo, Francesco Vitale, Riccardo Grassi. Attitudes and Beliefs on Influenza Vaccination during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results from a Representative Italian Survey. Vaccines. 2020; 8 (4):711.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAlexander Domnich; Maura Cambiaggi; Alessandro Vasco; Luca Maraniello; Filippo Ansaldi; Vincenzo Baldo; Paolo Bonanni; Giovanna Elisa Calabrò; Claudio Costantino; Chiara De Waure; Giovanni Gabutti; Vincenzo Restivo; Caterina Rizzo; Francesco Vitale; Riccardo Grassi. 2020. "Attitudes and Beliefs on Influenza Vaccination during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results from a Representative Italian Survey." Vaccines 8, no. 4: 711.
Influenza is an infectious disease with a high impact on the population in terms of morbidity and mortality, but despite International and European guidelines, vaccination coverage rates among healthcare workers (HCWs) remain very low. The aim of the present study was to evaluate influenza vaccination adherence in the three Sicilian University Hospitals of Catania, Messina, and Palermo and to understand the attitudes and perceptions of vaccinated healthcare workers and the main reasons for vaccination refusal. A cross-sectional survey through a self-administered questionnaire was conducted during the 2019/2020 influenza season. Overall, 2356 vaccinated healthcare workers answered the questionnaire. The main reason reported for influenza vaccination adherence during the 2019/2020 season was to protect patients. Higher self-perceived risk of contracting influenza and a positive attitude to recommending vaccination to patients were significantly associated with influenza vaccination adherence during the last five seasons via multivariable analysis. Fear of an adverse reaction was the main reason for influenza vaccine refusal. In accordance with these findings, Public Health institutions should develop and tailor formative and informative campaigns to reduce principal barriers to the immunization process and promote influenza vaccination adherence among HCWs.
Claudio Costantino; Caterina Ledda; Raffaele Squeri; Vincenzo Restivo; Alessandra Casuccio; Venerando Rapisarda; Giorgio Graziano; Davide Alba; Livia Cimino; Arianna Conforto; Gaetano Bruno Costa; Smeralda D’Amato; Francesco Mazzitelli; Francesco Vitale; Cristina Genovese. Attitudes and Perception of Healthcare Workers Concerning Influenza Vaccination during the 2019/2020 Season: A Survey of Sicilian University Hospitals. Vaccines 2020, 8, 686 .
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Caterina Ledda, Raffaele Squeri, Vincenzo Restivo, Alessandra Casuccio, Venerando Rapisarda, Giorgio Graziano, Davide Alba, Livia Cimino, Arianna Conforto, Gaetano Bruno Costa, Smeralda D’Amato, Francesco Mazzitelli, Francesco Vitale, Cristina Genovese. Attitudes and Perception of Healthcare Workers Concerning Influenza Vaccination during the 2019/2020 Season: A Survey of Sicilian University Hospitals. Vaccines. 2020; 8 (4):686.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Caterina Ledda; Raffaele Squeri; Vincenzo Restivo; Alessandra Casuccio; Venerando Rapisarda; Giorgio Graziano; Davide Alba; Livia Cimino; Arianna Conforto; Gaetano Bruno Costa; Smeralda D’Amato; Francesco Mazzitelli; Francesco Vitale; Cristina Genovese. 2020. "Attitudes and Perception of Healthcare Workers Concerning Influenza Vaccination during the 2019/2020 Season: A Survey of Sicilian University Hospitals." Vaccines 8, no. 4: 686.
Cancer represents one of the most common causes of death worldwide. Among women, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer and the principal cause of death due to malignant disease, while cervical cancer ranks fourth for both incidence and mortality. The present review aims to analyze the epidemiology of cervical and breast cancer (incidence, mortality, survival rates, and trends). Moreover, the most important primary and secondary preventive strategies (reduction of risk factors, exposure, vaccination, cancer screening) intended to reduce the future burden of cervical and breast cancer, that should be adopted actively and free of charge, were discussed in accordance to more recent and evidence-based findings.
Claudio Costantino; Davide Alba; Livia Cimino; Arianna Conforto; Walter Mazzucco. The Role of Vaccination and Screening in Limiting the Worldwide Disease Burden of Preventable Female Cancers: A Review. Women 2020, 1, 16 -28.
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Davide Alba, Livia Cimino, Arianna Conforto, Walter Mazzucco. The Role of Vaccination and Screening in Limiting the Worldwide Disease Burden of Preventable Female Cancers: A Review. Women. 2020; 1 (1):16-28.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Davide Alba; Livia Cimino; Arianna Conforto; Walter Mazzucco. 2020. "The Role of Vaccination and Screening in Limiting the Worldwide Disease Burden of Preventable Female Cancers: A Review." Women 1, no. 1: 16-28.
The Special Issue “Vaccination and Vaccine Effectiveness”, published in the journal Vaccines, has the main aim to increase international literature data on vaccine effectiveness and safety and on vaccination strategies in order to reduce vaccine hesitancy and improve vaccination coverage rates. The main topics included in the call for papers were vaccines administered to infants, adolescents, adults, elderly people, at-risk populations (due to comorbidities and personal risk factors) and healthcare workers and strategies adopted to promote vaccination adherence among these categories. This Special Issue started from the assumption that, despite vaccination being universally recognized as one of the best strategies to increase duration and quality of life during the last centuries, vaccination coverage rates are often under the levels recommended to reduce circulation and to extinguish vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccine hesitancy involves at least 15% of the general population, and healthcare workers also sometimes demonstrate doubts on vaccination effectiveness and safety. At the end of the six-month submission period, 16 articles (15 research article and one review) were accepted after the peer-review processes and published online.
Claudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. Vaccination and Vaccine Effectiveness: A Commentary of Special Issue Editors. Vaccines 2020, 8, 545 .
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Alessandra Casuccio, Vincenzo Restivo. Vaccination and Vaccine Effectiveness: A Commentary of Special Issue Editors. Vaccines. 2020; 8 (3):545.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. 2020. "Vaccination and Vaccine Effectiveness: A Commentary of Special Issue Editors." Vaccines 8, no. 3: 545.
Landfilling should be the last option in an integrated Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management approach. In the European Union (EU), the policy framework to protect the environment and the public health against the impact of health hazards related to urban solid waste management has been consistently implemented in recent decades. A growing interest in the negative impact of fires in waste landfills on the environment and people’s health was reported in some European countries. In Italy, an increasing occurrence of arsons in MSW and landfills has been reported in recent years. During the summer of 2012, a multi-site arson occurred in the Palermo Municipal solid waste landfill of Bellolampo (western Sicily), giving rise to an environmental emergency of public health concern. Local health authorities reacted by creating an inter-institutional multidisciplinary task force with the aim to implement measures to prevent and control the risk of exposure by delimiting a protection area to be taken under strict monitoring. Environmental and epidemiological investigations were put in place by air, soil, and farm product sampling. A syndromic surveillance of the exposed population was conducted as well. The air monitoring stations system in place detected an increase in the concentrations of dioxins and dioxin-like substances with the PM10 highest emission pick documented within the first 24 h and estimated at about 60 μg/m3. Levels of heavy metals above the limits permitted by law were detected in the top- and sub-soil samples collected within the two landfill sampling sites and also in other nearby sites. Non-conforming concentration values of dioxins and dioxin-like substances were detected in samples taken from farms, milk, and water. The health syndromic surveillance did not document any daily increase in the notification of emergency admissions related to acute respiratory diseases or any other health effect potentially related to the waste arson, but these findings were limited by the non-systematic collection of data. The experience reported in the present case report, as declined within the European Union policy framework and in the view of environmental justice, documented the need to structure a permanent collaboration between the different institutional actors involved in environmental and public health protection activities in order to develop specific protocols to manage events related to the occurrence of waste-related environmental emergencies or disasters.
Walter Mazzucco; Claudio Costantino; Vincenzo Restivo; Davide Alba; Claudia Marotta; Elisa Tavormina; Achille Cernigliaro; Maurizio Macaluso; Rosanna Cusimano; Rosario Grammauta; Fabio Tramuto; Salvatore Scondotto; Francesco Vitale. The Management of Health Hazards Related to Municipal Solid Waste on Fire in Europe: An Environmental Justice Issue? International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 6617 .
AMA StyleWalter Mazzucco, Claudio Costantino, Vincenzo Restivo, Davide Alba, Claudia Marotta, Elisa Tavormina, Achille Cernigliaro, Maurizio Macaluso, Rosanna Cusimano, Rosario Grammauta, Fabio Tramuto, Salvatore Scondotto, Francesco Vitale. The Management of Health Hazards Related to Municipal Solid Waste on Fire in Europe: An Environmental Justice Issue? International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (18):6617.
Chicago/Turabian StyleWalter Mazzucco; Claudio Costantino; Vincenzo Restivo; Davide Alba; Claudia Marotta; Elisa Tavormina; Achille Cernigliaro; Maurizio Macaluso; Rosanna Cusimano; Rosario Grammauta; Fabio Tramuto; Salvatore Scondotto; Francesco Vitale. 2020. "The Management of Health Hazards Related to Municipal Solid Waste on Fire in Europe: An Environmental Justice Issue?" International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 18: 6617.
Infection caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be prevented through a safe and effective vaccine. This study analysed the kinetics of serum antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) (anti-HBs) titers in relation to previous vaccine boosters in Italian nursing students who were followed up for two years. Serum anti-HBs titers were evaluated at the first visit, after vaccine booster (if required) and at visit after two years. Overall, 483 students (mean age = 21.7 years; SD = 3.7) with median anti-HBs IgG titer of 6 mUI/mL (interquartile range (IQR) = 0–34) were enrolled. A total of 254 (52.5%) students with a titer lower than 10 mIU/mL were offered an anti-HBV booster at the first visit. Among these students, an exponential relation between anti-HBs IgG titer, one month after HBV booster and anti-HBs IgG titer two years later was found (y = 3.32 exp (0.0045x); R2 = 0.48; p < 0.001). Students with anti-HBV titer higher than 10 mIU/mL (N = 229) were followed up, and anti-HBs IgG titers at follow-up visit linearly correlated with anti-HBV baseline titers (y = 0.86x + 26.2; R2 = 0.67; p < 0.001). A decrease in anti-HBs titers can be expected a few years after the anti-HBV booster dose. This reduction is more pronounced than that observed in students not administered the booster dose and is exponential with respect to basal titers assessed after the booster dose.
Maria Gabriella Verso; Claudio Costantino; Alessandro Marrella; Palmira Immordino; Francesco Vitale; Emanuele Amodio. Kinetics of Anti-Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Titers in Nurse Students after a Two-Year Follow-Up. Vaccines 2020, 8, 467 .
AMA StyleMaria Gabriella Verso, Claudio Costantino, Alessandro Marrella, Palmira Immordino, Francesco Vitale, Emanuele Amodio. Kinetics of Anti-Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Titers in Nurse Students after a Two-Year Follow-Up. Vaccines. 2020; 8 (3):467.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaria Gabriella Verso; Claudio Costantino; Alessandro Marrella; Palmira Immordino; Francesco Vitale; Emanuele Amodio. 2020. "Kinetics of Anti-Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Titers in Nurse Students after a Two-Year Follow-Up." Vaccines 8, no. 3: 467.
In recent years, vaccination coverage rates against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in Europe have shown a decreasing trend and remain below the required standard. The present study aims to assess knowledge and attitudes regarding HPV infection and vaccination among a representative sample of preadolescents of Palermo, Italy. A survey was carried out throughout two questionnaires, before and after carrying out an educational intervention scheduled during school hours. A total of 1702 students attending first-grade secondary schools of the province of Palermo were enrolled (response rate 68.9%). Students attending third classes (adj OR = 1.18; CI 95% 1.03–1.36), being of higher socioeconomic status (adj OR = 1.35; CI 95% 1.05–1.73), who had previously received information about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) at home (adj OR = 1.62; CI 95% 1.27–2.07) or at school (adj OR = 2.15; CI 95% 1.70–2.71) and who had ever heard in the past about HPV (adj OR = 1.80; CI 95% 1.42–2.29) showed a significantly higher baseline level of knowledge regarding HPV. Willingness to receive HPV vaccination, in a 10-point Likert scale, significantly increased between the pre- (8.51; SD ± 1.79) and post- (9.01 SD ± 1.52) intervention questionnaires (p < 0.001). A total of 188 out of 272 (69.1%) preadolescents attending five out eighteen schools involved in the project, who had not previously received the HPV vaccine, were vaccinated. During past years, education campaigns on HPV were mainly dedicated to adult women, excluding teenagers and omitting young males. It should therefore be of primary importance that school-based education and vaccination programmes be standardized.
Claudio Costantino; Emanuele Amodio; Francesco Vitale; Cecilia Trucchi; Carmelo Massimo Maida; Stefania Enza Bono; Francesca Caracci; Claudia Emilia Sannasardo; Francesco Scarpitta; Carlotta Vella; Gianmarco Ventura; Giancarlo Icardi; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. Human Papilloma Virus Infection and Vaccination: Pre-Post Intervention Analysis on Knowledge, Attitudes and Willingness to Vaccinate Among Preadolescents Attending Secondary Schools of Palermo, Sicily. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 5362 .
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Emanuele Amodio, Francesco Vitale, Cecilia Trucchi, Carmelo Massimo Maida, Stefania Enza Bono, Francesca Caracci, Claudia Emilia Sannasardo, Francesco Scarpitta, Carlotta Vella, Gianmarco Ventura, Giancarlo Icardi, Alessandra Casuccio, Vincenzo Restivo. Human Papilloma Virus Infection and Vaccination: Pre-Post Intervention Analysis on Knowledge, Attitudes and Willingness to Vaccinate Among Preadolescents Attending Secondary Schools of Palermo, Sicily. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (15):5362.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Emanuele Amodio; Francesco Vitale; Cecilia Trucchi; Carmelo Massimo Maida; Stefania Enza Bono; Francesca Caracci; Claudia Emilia Sannasardo; Francesco Scarpitta; Carlotta Vella; Gianmarco Ventura; Giancarlo Icardi; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. 2020. "Human Papilloma Virus Infection and Vaccination: Pre-Post Intervention Analysis on Knowledge, Attitudes and Willingness to Vaccinate Among Preadolescents Attending Secondary Schools of Palermo, Sicily." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 15: 5362.
In response to the alarming reduction of vaccination coverage rates, Italian Ministry of Health approved the law number 119/2017, which has extended the number of mandatory vaccinations, for school attendance, from four to ten. The present study aims to evaluate accesses to the vaccination services of the Palermo Local Health Unit (LHU) and the variation of the vaccination coverage rates for hexavalent and measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccines, after the implementation of the law 119/2017. An extent of opening hours and an involvement of other health-care professionals in the vaccination services of the Palermo LHU have been adopted to manage the excess of accesses after the introduction of 119/2017 law and to limit the discomfort of general population. Vaccination accesses and coverage rates were calculated from the electronic immunization registers. An overall increase of about 15% of single vaccination accesses was observed in the three semester after the introduction of the law in the LHU of Palermo. A peak of 35,516 accesses was observed during the second semester of 2017 (+ 30% compared to the same semesters of 2016 and 2018). From 2016 to 2018, coverage rates for full hexavalent cycle and first dose of MMRV, at 24 and 36 months, and for full MMRV cycle and fourth dose of diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis (DTPa+IPV), among 6 years old children, showed considerable increases. Law 199/2017 demonstrated a high efficacy in increase vaccination coverage rates also in Sicily. The synergy established between the LHU and the University of Palermo allowed an excellent management of the accesses to vaccination services, making it possible to respond to the public health needs of the general population.
Claudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Claudia Emilia Sannasardo; Carlotta Vella; Francesco Scarpitta; Maria Angela Randazzo; Angelo Foresta; Nicolò Casuccio; Gianmarco Ventura; Stefania Enza Bono; Francesco Vitale; Vincenzo Restivo. Public health strategies adopted to manage the increase of accesses to vaccination services, as a result of the application of the law 119/2017 : Vaccination services response to increase of accesses due to law 119/2017. 2020, 91, 35 -40.
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Alessandra Casuccio, Claudia Emilia Sannasardo, Carlotta Vella, Francesco Scarpitta, Maria Angela Randazzo, Angelo Foresta, Nicolò Casuccio, Gianmarco Ventura, Stefania Enza Bono, Francesco Vitale, Vincenzo Restivo. Public health strategies adopted to manage the increase of accesses to vaccination services, as a result of the application of the law 119/2017 : Vaccination services response to increase of accesses due to law 119/2017. . 2020; 91 (3-S):35-40.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Claudia Emilia Sannasardo; Carlotta Vella; Francesco Scarpitta; Maria Angela Randazzo; Angelo Foresta; Nicolò Casuccio; Gianmarco Ventura; Stefania Enza Bono; Francesco Vitale; Vincenzo Restivo. 2020. "Public health strategies adopted to manage the increase of accesses to vaccination services, as a result of the application of the law 119/2017 : Vaccination services response to increase of accesses due to law 119/2017." 91, no. 3-S: 35-40.
Even though vaccination is easy to access in Europe, it has been facing several outbreaks caused by vaccine preventable diseases. Trying to balance the right to health of the community with individual self-determination, in Italy was mandate vaccination for ten vaccine preventable diseases in 2017. The project “Sportello Vaccinale” provided a counseling service to parents in kindergarten of Palermo. The main objective of the study was to investigate knowledge and compliance on vaccination by children’s parents after the implementation of mandatory vaccination. A cross sectional study was conducted among parents accessing to the “Sportello Vaccinale” using a questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 34 items divided into three sections: socio-demographic data; knowledge and attitude on mandatory vaccination using Health Belief Model (HBM); Health Literacy (HL) level. A total of 95 questionnaires were garnered in the kindergartens from respondents with a mean age of 36 (±SD=6) years. The respondents who delayed hexavalent or Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella (MMRV) vaccinations were 8 (8%) and the more frequent cause was fear of adverse reaction (87%). The sample had more often high level of health literacy (37%), and 55% had higher HBM score. The factor significantly associated with higher HBM score was the age of respondents (OR= 1.14, p=0.006) after controlling for other variables. Consent to vaccination practice was widely represented, but the results of the study highlighted the need for parents to have more information and more time devoted to the practice of vaccination counseling. Implementing counseling activities at school or at the vaccination service, could support an aware decision process of the parents on vaccination topic.
Vincenzo Restivo; Sara Palmeri; Stefania Bono; Francesca Caracci; Giusy Russo Fiorino; Angelo Foresta; Valerio Gaglio; Giorgio Graziano; Valentina Marchese; Marialuisa Maniglia; Claudia Sannasardo; Laura Saporito; Francesco Scarpitta; Carlotta Vella; Gianmarco Ventura; Maria Silvia Mangano; Francesco Vitale; Alessandra Casuccio; Claudio Costantino. Knowledge and attitudes of parents after the implementation of mandatory vaccination in kindergartens of Palermo, Italy. 2020, 91, 41 -47.
AMA StyleVincenzo Restivo, Sara Palmeri, Stefania Bono, Francesca Caracci, Giusy Russo Fiorino, Angelo Foresta, Valerio Gaglio, Giorgio Graziano, Valentina Marchese, Marialuisa Maniglia, Claudia Sannasardo, Laura Saporito, Francesco Scarpitta, Carlotta Vella, Gianmarco Ventura, Maria Silvia Mangano, Francesco Vitale, Alessandra Casuccio, Claudio Costantino. Knowledge and attitudes of parents after the implementation of mandatory vaccination in kindergartens of Palermo, Italy. . 2020; 91 (3-S):41-47.
Chicago/Turabian StyleVincenzo Restivo; Sara Palmeri; Stefania Bono; Francesca Caracci; Giusy Russo Fiorino; Angelo Foresta; Valerio Gaglio; Giorgio Graziano; Valentina Marchese; Marialuisa Maniglia; Claudia Sannasardo; Laura Saporito; Francesco Scarpitta; Carlotta Vella; Gianmarco Ventura; Maria Silvia Mangano; Francesco Vitale; Alessandra Casuccio; Claudio Costantino. 2020. "Knowledge and attitudes of parents after the implementation of mandatory vaccination in kindergartens of Palermo, Italy." 91, no. 3-S: 41-47.
Despite infections due to HPV nowadays represent the most common sexually transmitted diseases worldwide with recognized effective and safe preventive strategies, knowledge, attitudes; however, awareness on HPV is considerably low. The present study has two main objectives: 1. To conduct a literature review to analyze the evolution of preventive tools, the complexity of the vaccine choice process, and the challenges posed by HPV vaccine hesitancy and refusal among pre-adolescents and their parents; 2. To assess knowledge, practices and attitudes toward HPV infection and vaccination in a sample of Italian pre-adolescents and their parents. The observational study was carried out through the use of two anonymous and self-administered pre- and postintervention questionnaires dedicated to the target populations. Between the administrations of the pre- and postintervention questionnaires, an educational intervention on HPV infection and related diseases, and prevention strategies was conducted. All participants demonstrated suboptimal knowledge and positive attitudes in the preintervention questionnaire. Higher levels of knowledge and attitudes were observed among pre-adolescents thatused social networks and had heard of sexually transmitted diseases at home/school/physician and from parents and also who had heard of HPV from General Practitioners, Gynecologists, family members and newspapers. A significant increase in HPV vaccination awareness was observed among pre-adolescents after the educational sessions. Health education programs aimed at increasing knowledge, attitudes and awareness on HPV are needed to implement the outcomes of HPV immunization programs, especially if supported by the physicians involved in counselling and recommendation processes.
Giancarlo Icardi; Claudio Costantino; Marcello Guido; Antonella Zizza; Vincenzo Restivo; Daniela Amicizia; Federico Tassinari; Maria Francesca Piazza; Chiara Paganino; Alessandra Casuccio; Francesco Vitale; Filippo Ansaldi; Cecilia Trucchi. Burden and Prevention of HPV. Knowledge, Practices and Attitude Assessment Among Pre-Adolescents and their Parents in Italy. Current Pharmaceutical Design 2020, 26, 326 -342.
AMA StyleGiancarlo Icardi, Claudio Costantino, Marcello Guido, Antonella Zizza, Vincenzo Restivo, Daniela Amicizia, Federico Tassinari, Maria Francesca Piazza, Chiara Paganino, Alessandra Casuccio, Francesco Vitale, Filippo Ansaldi, Cecilia Trucchi. Burden and Prevention of HPV. Knowledge, Practices and Attitude Assessment Among Pre-Adolescents and their Parents in Italy. Current Pharmaceutical Design. 2020; 26 (3):326-342.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGiancarlo Icardi; Claudio Costantino; Marcello Guido; Antonella Zizza; Vincenzo Restivo; Daniela Amicizia; Federico Tassinari; Maria Francesca Piazza; Chiara Paganino; Alessandra Casuccio; Francesco Vitale; Filippo Ansaldi; Cecilia Trucchi. 2020. "Burden and Prevention of HPV. Knowledge, Practices and Attitude Assessment Among Pre-Adolescents and their Parents in Italy." Current Pharmaceutical Design 26, no. 3: 326-342.
Counteract vaccine hesitancy is a public health priority. Main objectives of the cross-sectional study conducted were to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding vaccination issues, to estimate the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy and to estimate the effectiveness of vaccination counseling on community advocacy in a sample of general population. An anonymous validated questionnaire was administered in April 2017 at the main shopping center of Palermo and was followed by tailored vaccination counseling interventions. To estimate the effectiveness of the interventions four main connection parameters to the vaccinarsi.org website were evaluated, in the two months before and after the intervention and in the two months before the intervention compared with the same period of previous and following years. Among the 299 subject enrolled 12.7% were hesitant about vaccinations, and 4.7% declared being against vaccinations. General practitioners (GPs) and pediatricians were the most affordable source of information about vaccinations. A higher probability of vaccination hesitancy/refusal was reported among subjects who considered “alternative strategies” the best way for the prevention of infectious diseases (adj-OR = 7.01, IC95% 2.88–17.09, p-value < 0.001). A considerable increase of all the vaccinarsi.org website indicators analyzed was observed, from the area in which survey participants lived. Prevalence of vaccine hesitancy among population surveyed is consistent with the literature data. HCWs, such as GPs and pediatricians, should play a key role in modifying personal convictions and choices about vaccinations. A proper vaccination counseling could improve attitudes regarding vaccination issues, such as quality of web-based research.
Claudio Costantino; Francesca Caracci; MariaRosa Brandi; Stefania Enza Bono; Antonio Ferro; Claudia Emilia Sannasardo; Francesco Scarpitta; Andrea Siddu; Carlotta Vella; Gianmarco Ventura; Francesco Vitale; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. Determinants of vaccine hesitancy and effectiveness of vaccination counseling interventions among a sample of the general population in Palermo, Italy. Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics 2020, 16, 2415 -2421.
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Francesca Caracci, MariaRosa Brandi, Stefania Enza Bono, Antonio Ferro, Claudia Emilia Sannasardo, Francesco Scarpitta, Andrea Siddu, Carlotta Vella, Gianmarco Ventura, Francesco Vitale, Alessandra Casuccio, Vincenzo Restivo. Determinants of vaccine hesitancy and effectiveness of vaccination counseling interventions among a sample of the general population in Palermo, Italy. Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics. 2020; 16 (10):2415-2421.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Francesca Caracci; MariaRosa Brandi; Stefania Enza Bono; Antonio Ferro; Claudia Emilia Sannasardo; Francesco Scarpitta; Andrea Siddu; Carlotta Vella; Gianmarco Ventura; Francesco Vitale; Alessandra Casuccio; Vincenzo Restivo. 2020. "Determinants of vaccine hesitancy and effectiveness of vaccination counseling interventions among a sample of the general population in Palermo, Italy." Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics 16, no. 10: 2415-2421.
Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI), representing the main cause of genital warts and cervical cancer. This cross-sectional study evaluated knowledge and attitudes about HPV infection, related diseases, and prevention and propensity towards HPV vaccine among undergraduate students. Methods: An online and written survey about HPV and its prevention, targeted to young adults of both genders, was addressed to students attending health sciences and other schools at Universities of Genoa and Bari. Results: The overall median knowledge and attitude scores were 56.3% (25–75 p = 40–68.8%) and four out of five (25–75 p = 4–5), respectively. In the multivariate analysis, attending a health sciences university, using social networks ≤2 h a day, a history of STI, having heard about HPV and HPV vaccine previously resulted as predictors of higher knowledge scores. Having heard about HPV previously also predicted a high attitude score, together with a perceived economic status as good. Having Italian and healthcare worker parents, being employed, and following a specific diet, instead, predicted lower attitude score. Conclusions: Poor knowledge and good attitudes were found among undergraduates about HPV. In order to increase HPV vaccine compliance and the counselling skills of future healthcare workers, the improvement of training on HPV is needed.
Cecilia Trucchi; Daniela Amicizia; Silvio Tafuri; Laura Sticchi; Paolo Durando; Claudio Costantino; Federica Varlese; Bruno Di Silverio; Anna Maria Bagnasco; Filippo Ansaldi; Giancarlo Icardi. Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Propensity towards HPV Vaccine of Young Adult Students in Italy. Vaccines 2020, 8, 74 .
AMA StyleCecilia Trucchi, Daniela Amicizia, Silvio Tafuri, Laura Sticchi, Paolo Durando, Claudio Costantino, Federica Varlese, Bruno Di Silverio, Anna Maria Bagnasco, Filippo Ansaldi, Giancarlo Icardi. Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Propensity towards HPV Vaccine of Young Adult Students in Italy. Vaccines. 2020; 8 (1):74.
Chicago/Turabian StyleCecilia Trucchi; Daniela Amicizia; Silvio Tafuri; Laura Sticchi; Paolo Durando; Claudio Costantino; Federica Varlese; Bruno Di Silverio; Anna Maria Bagnasco; Filippo Ansaldi; Giancarlo Icardi. 2020. "Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Propensity towards HPV Vaccine of Young Adult Students in Italy." Vaccines 8, no. 1: 74.
Background: Vaccine hesitancy has increased worldwide, leading to reduction in vaccination coverage rates. In particular, reduction in the coverage for the trivalent Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccine has led to an increase of measles cases. The aim of this study is to analyze the coverage rates for the MMR vaccine in the Emilia-Romagna Region (RER) and Sicily Region (SR) between 2009 and 2018, and to correlate any significant change to index events which could have modified the trend of vaccination rates. Methods: Official aggregate data on vaccination coverage at 24 months provided by the RER and the SR were analyzed through trend analysis and related to important index events. Results: The two regions showed similar results; both achieved the lowest coverage rates in 2015 and both showed an increase in the rates after the introduction of mandatory vaccinations for access to schools. In 2018, both reached the starting point before the decrease. Conclusions: Our results confirm the effectiveness of legislative coercive measures in favor of vaccination. A potential decrease in the coverage rates may be observed as a result of an attenuation of the positive effects of coercive measures over time. It is thus necessary to combine these measures together with information campaigns and political initiatives at different levels (i.e., national, regional).
Davide Gori; Claudio Costantino; Anna Odone; Beatrice Ricci; Magda Ialonardi; Carlo Signorelli; Francesco Vitale; Maria Pia Fantini. The Impact of Mandatory Vaccination Law in Italy on MMR Coverage Rates in Two of the Largest Italian Regions (Emilia-Romagna and Sicily): An Effective Strategy to Contrast Vaccine Hesitancy. Vaccines 2020, 8, 57 .
AMA StyleDavide Gori, Claudio Costantino, Anna Odone, Beatrice Ricci, Magda Ialonardi, Carlo Signorelli, Francesco Vitale, Maria Pia Fantini. The Impact of Mandatory Vaccination Law in Italy on MMR Coverage Rates in Two of the Largest Italian Regions (Emilia-Romagna and Sicily): An Effective Strategy to Contrast Vaccine Hesitancy. Vaccines. 2020; 8 (1):57.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDavide Gori; Claudio Costantino; Anna Odone; Beatrice Ricci; Magda Ialonardi; Carlo Signorelli; Francesco Vitale; Maria Pia Fantini. 2020. "The Impact of Mandatory Vaccination Law in Italy on MMR Coverage Rates in Two of the Largest Italian Regions (Emilia-Romagna and Sicily): An Effective Strategy to Contrast Vaccine Hesitancy." Vaccines 8, no. 1: 57.
In light of the implementation of human papillomavirus (HPV) prevention strategies, epidemiological studies in different geographical areas are required in order to assess the impact of HPV-related diseases. The purpose of the present study was to describe the burden of HPV-related hospitalizations in Sicily. A retrospective observational study estimated 43,531 hospitalizations attributable to HPV from 2007 to 2017. During the observed period, there was a decrease for all HPV-related conditions with a higher reduction, among neoplasms, for cervical cancer (annual percent change (APC) = −9.9%, p < 0.001). The median age for cervical cancer was 45 years old, with an increasing value from 43 to 47 years (p < 0.001). The age classes with greater decreases in hospital admissions for invasive cancers were women aged 35 years or more (APC range from −5.5 to −9.86) and 25–34 years old (APC = −11.87, p < 0.001) for women with cervical carcinoma in situ. After ten years for vaccine introduction and sixteen years for cervical cancer screening availability, a relatively large decrease in hospital admissions for cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases in Sicily was observed. Some clinical characteristics of hospitalization, such as increasing age, are suggestive clues for the impact of preventive strategies, but further research is needed to confirm this relationship.
Vincenzo Restivo; Claudio Costantino; Livia Amato; Stefania Candiloro; Alessandra Casuccio; Marianna Maranto; Alessandro Marrella; Sara Palmeri; Stefano Pizzo; Francesco Vitale; Emanuele Amodio. Evaluation of the Burden of HPV-Related Hospitalizations as a Useful Tool to Increase Awareness: 2007–2017 Data from the Sicilian Hospital Discharge Records. Vaccines 2020, 8, 47 .
AMA StyleVincenzo Restivo, Claudio Costantino, Livia Amato, Stefania Candiloro, Alessandra Casuccio, Marianna Maranto, Alessandro Marrella, Sara Palmeri, Stefano Pizzo, Francesco Vitale, Emanuele Amodio. Evaluation of the Burden of HPV-Related Hospitalizations as a Useful Tool to Increase Awareness: 2007–2017 Data from the Sicilian Hospital Discharge Records. Vaccines. 2020; 8 (1):47.
Chicago/Turabian StyleVincenzo Restivo; Claudio Costantino; Livia Amato; Stefania Candiloro; Alessandra Casuccio; Marianna Maranto; Alessandro Marrella; Sara Palmeri; Stefano Pizzo; Francesco Vitale; Emanuele Amodio. 2020. "Evaluation of the Burden of HPV-Related Hospitalizations as a Useful Tool to Increase Awareness: 2007–2017 Data from the Sicilian Hospital Discharge Records." Vaccines 8, no. 1: 47.
Every year, about 20% of health care workers (HCWs) acquire influenza, continuing to work and encouraging virus spreading. Influenza vaccination coverage rates and absenteeism from work among HCWs of the University Hospital (UH) of Palermo were analyzed before and after the implementation of several initiatives in order to increase HCWs’ awareness about influenza vaccination. Vaccines administration within hospital units, dedicated web pages on social media and on the UH of Palermo institutional web site, and mandatory compilation of a dissent form for those HCWs who refused vaccination were carried out during the last four influenza seasons. After the introduction of these strategies, influenza vaccination coverage went up from 5.2% (2014/2015 season) to 37.2% (2018/2019 season) (p < 0.001), and mean age of vaccinated HCWs significantly decreased from 48.1 years (95% CI: 45.7–50.5) to 35.9 years (95% CI: 35.0–36.8). A reduction of working days lost due to acute sickness among HCWs of the UH of Palermo was observed. Fear of adverse reactions and not considering themselves as a high-risk group for contracting influenza were the main reasons reported by HCWs that refused vaccination. Strategies undertaken at the UH of Palermo allowed a significant increase in vaccination adherence and a significant reduction of absenteeism from work.
Claudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Francesca Caracci; Stefania Bono; Giuseppe Calamusa; Gianmarco Ventura; Carmelo Massimo Maida; Francesco Vitale; Vincenzo Restivo. Impact of Communicative and Informative Strategies on Influenza Vaccination Adherence and Absenteeism from Work of Health Care Professionals Working at the University Hospital of Palermo, Italy: A Quasi-Experimental Field Trial on Twelve Influenza Seasons. Vaccines 2019, 8, 5 .
AMA StyleClaudio Costantino, Alessandra Casuccio, Francesca Caracci, Stefania Bono, Giuseppe Calamusa, Gianmarco Ventura, Carmelo Massimo Maida, Francesco Vitale, Vincenzo Restivo. Impact of Communicative and Informative Strategies on Influenza Vaccination Adherence and Absenteeism from Work of Health Care Professionals Working at the University Hospital of Palermo, Italy: A Quasi-Experimental Field Trial on Twelve Influenza Seasons. Vaccines. 2019; 8 (1):5.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudio Costantino; Alessandra Casuccio; Francesca Caracci; Stefania Bono; Giuseppe Calamusa; Gianmarco Ventura; Carmelo Massimo Maida; Francesco Vitale; Vincenzo Restivo. 2019. "Impact of Communicative and Informative Strategies on Influenza Vaccination Adherence and Absenteeism from Work of Health Care Professionals Working at the University Hospital of Palermo, Italy: A Quasi-Experimental Field Trial on Twelve Influenza Seasons." Vaccines 8, no. 1: 5.