Awareness of availability and benefits for influenza vaccination

Background: Influenza virus causes outbreak of influenza which causes sickness and kills thousands of people each year, also may cause outbreaks of devastating worldwide epidemics. There are three human pathogens; Influenza A that causes worldwide epidemic, Influenza B virus that causes influenza and Influenza C virus causes mild respiratory tract infections. The lack of awareness among people or medical professionals, shortage of sufficient epidemiological information or due to inaccessibility of current vaccine of general population for prevention of flu virus and related illness. In this study we aimed to analyze level of awareness regarding influenza vaccination along with benefits among general population of various age groups. Method: We performed a descriptive survey-based study to analyze awareness among general population in Karachi about availability and accessibility of flu vaccine and its cost effectiveness. There were 100 participants were divided into four age group who were asked to fill the questioner regarding the awareness of influenza vaccine. Also if they were vaccinated and its effectiveness. Results: Out of 100 the persons in general population were aware about the vaccine availability and benefits in population of Karachi. The episode of influenza and complication even after vaccination in elderly patients, medical practitioners and paramedics. Conclusion: We concluded that even though vaccine is available yet, there is a dire need of awareness among general population as majority of the people didn’t know about its benefits.