Influenza vaccination in community pharmacy: A cross-sectional survey of Canadian adults’ knowledge, attitude and beliefs

Abstract

Background: In Canada, influenza vaccination rates are below recommended targets, with pharmacies the leading setting for vaccine administration. This work aimed to determine the Canadian public’s current knowledge, attitudes and practices related to pharmacy-based influenza vaccination services. Methods: We surveyed 3000 Canadian residents aged ≥18 years using a cross-sectional, self-reported, online structured questionnaire between December 5 and 21, 2022. A representative survey population was recruited from the Léger Opinion (LEO) consumer panel. Data were weighted by age, region and gender, based on 2021 census data. Results: During the 2022–2023 season, 56.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 54%-59.2%) of respondents reported receiving an influenza vaccine at a pharmacy, including 57.5% (95% CI, 54.2%-60.8%) of respondents considered to be at high risk of complications from influenza. Among respondents previously vaccinated at a pharmacy, 94.1% (95% CI, 91%-97.2%) were satisfied with the experience, citing convenience, accessibility and availability as factors influencing their decision. Among all respondents, 29.3% (95% CI, 27.5%-31.1%) reported that a pharmacist’s recommendation for the influenza vaccine would affect their decision to be vaccinated, yet only 10.4% (95% CI, 5.9%-15%) who had discussions with a pharmacist specifically discussed the importance of influenza vaccination. Conclusion: Canadians are satisfied with pharmacy-based influenza vaccinations and value pharmacist recommendations. Pharmacists have an opportunity to boost influenza vaccination coverage in Canada by providing counselling on the importance of influenza vaccination to those seeking their advice on other health care needs, including younger adults and those with risk factors for serious illness from influenza.