General practitioner knowledge gaps regarding live attenuated zoster vaccination of immunocompromised individuals: An ongoing concern?
Aust J Gen Pract
; 51(7): 529-534, 2022 07.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-35773163
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax [CSL/Merck]) was included on the Australian National Immunisation Program from 1 November 2016 for adults aged 70 years, with a catch-up program for adults aged 71-79 years. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of Australian general practitioners (GPs) regarding Zostavax.METHOD:
A national cross-sectional online survey was distributed to GPs by Healthed, a private health education provider.RESULTS:
Of 605 GPs, 502 responded to the survey (response rate 83%). Eighty-nine per cent were aware that Zostavax is funded and recommended for adults aged 70-79 years. Approximately 10% incorrectly responded that immunocompromise is not a contraindication to Zostavax, and 8% were unsure. For five clinical scenarios assessing knowledge of Zostavax contraindications, the proportion of correct responses ranged 25-82%.DISCUSSION:
While most GPs surveyed had good knowledge, notable gaps were identified. Further efforts are needed to promote awareness of recommendations, particularly for immunocompromised individuals. The availability of Shingrix, a non-live recombinant subunit zoster vaccine, in the private market provides an alternative, especially for immuncompromised patients.
Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Vacina contra Herpes Zoster
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Clínicos Gerais
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Herpes Zoster
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2022
Tipo de documento:
Article