The Attitude Regarding the Uptake of Influenza Vaccine in the COVID-19 Era in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The onset of COVID-19 has had a profound impact on the world, leading to significant adjustments in human behavior. A plethora of behavioral modifications have been embraced by individuals. As COVID-19 symptoms are similar to influenza symptoms, this study aimed to measure attitudes regarding the uptake of influenza vaccination in the COVID-19 era. This cross-sectional study used a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 311 participants were conveniently selected from two of the most popular shopping malls in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia, during a three-day influenza awareness campaign conducted between 11 November 2020 to 14 November 2020. Demographic items and all scales (summed and examined for internal reliability using Cronbach’s alpha) were analyzed using univariate analysis, including measures of central tendencies and frequencies. This study indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic has not significantly affected vaccination adoption rates. Only 9.3% of the individuals who received the vaccine expressed fear or a desire for protection against COVID-19.