Influenza vaccination uptake among Iranian Older Adults: Application of
the Health Belief Model
Abstract
Background: Influenza is an acute respiratory viral infection that can
induce severe complications, hospitalization, and even death among older
adults. Seasonal influenza vaccination has proposed for its prevention.
The aim of this study was to determine the related factors of influenza
vaccination among Iranian Older Adults in 2018 based on Health Belief
Model. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 206 participants aged 65
years and over were examined. The data collection tool was a
questionnaire based on Health Belief Model constructs. The logistic
regression model was used for data analysis. Results: Only 24.3% of the
participants had been seasonally vaccinated, over the past year, and
58.3% had received at least one dose of seasonal flu vaccine from the
age of 65. Cues to action (OR=1.52, P-value=0.002), Knowledge (OR =
1.27, P-value =0.020), and Perceived Susceptibility (OR=1.18,
P-value=0.007) were statistically significant predictors of seasonal
influenza vaccination. Conclusion: The cues to action stood as the
strongest predictor of seasonal influenza vaccination, which should be
addressed in health promotion intervention programs in the elderly.