Knowledge and Perception of influenza vaccine among elderly residents in a selected village in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Background: Influenza is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that mainly affects the nose, throat, and lungs, and it spreads through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks The influenza vaccine, often referred to as the “flu shot”, is recommended for the vulnerable groups including, the elderly, to reduce the risk of illness and death from the virus . Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and perception regarding the influenza vaccine among the elderly population at a selected village of Limpopo Province in South Africa. Methodology: A quantitative approach was followed, and the study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A probability sampling method, specifically systematic sampling, was used to select respondents. Data were collected through a structured, self-administered questionnaire designed to assess respondents’ knowledge and perceptions of the influenza vaccine. Face and content validity were ensured through expert review, while reliability was assessed using the test-retest method. The collected data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 30. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the demographic characteristics and key Resultss. Ethical measures, including informed consent, confidentiality, and voluntary participation, were strictly adhered to, during data collection. Results: The study comprised 247 (100%) respondents and, out of this sample, 160 (64.8%) of the respondents had never heard about the influenza vaccine, while 40 (16.2%) had heard about it and 47 (19.0%) were not sure. Only 60 (24.3%) of the respondents correctly knew that the purpose of the influenza vaccine is to prevent influenza, while the majority did not know its purpose. Furthermore, only 40 (16.2%) of the respondents knew that the influenza vaccine should be taken annually. Out of 247 respondents, 200 (80.9%) had never received the influenza vaccine. Results of the study indicate that fear of side effects and lack of knowledge were the major barriers to respondents taking the vaccination. Conclusion: The study revealed that elderly residents at a selected village in the Vhembe District have limited knowledge and perceptions regarding the influenza vaccine Recommendation: The study recommends strengthening health education, health professional engagement, and policy implementation to improve influenza vaccination coverage among older adults. MPH

Author dc:creator

• Ntshauba, Nthangeni Sherpad

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Mashau, N. S.
• Ramaliba, T. M.

• Elderly population
• Influenza vaccine and knowledge
• Perception
• UCTD

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/11602/3296

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:11602/3296