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General practitioner knowledge gaps regarding live attenuated zoster vaccination of immunocompromised individuals: An ongoing concern?
- Source :
- Australian Journal of General Practice. 51:529-534
- Publication Year :
- 2022
- Publisher :
- The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2022.
-
Abstract
- 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.A national cross-sectional online survey was distributed to GPs by Healthed, a private health education provider.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%.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.
Details
- ISSN :
- 22087958 and 2208794X
- Volume :
- 51
- Database :
- OpenAIRE
- Journal :
- Australian Journal of General Practice
- Accession number :
- edsair.doi.dedup.....4279c2e40867ffbca39bb30d9c636da6