Siddiqui B
Introduction:Influenza-related symptoms and mortality rate are worse in AIDS patients. Studies have shown that educating patients about the safety and efficacy of the influenza vaccine have improved patient vaccine acceptance rates.
Methods: An anonymous two-question survey was distributed to HIV patients who refused the influenza vaccine at the MCG clinic. The questions included why they refused the vaccine and whether they changed their minds after reading about the safety and benefits of the vaccine.
Results: 26 of 38 patients replied to the survey. Only 12 of the 26 patients changed their minds and were agreeable to receiving the influenza vaccine after being educated.
Conclusion: Vaccine acceptance amongst HIV patients at MCG remains low after educating them and debunking myths.