Ms Rebika Nepali1, Dr Catherine King1,2, Professor Julie Leask1,2, Associate Professor Victoria Brookes3, Dr Cameron Webb4, Dr Majdi M. Sabahelzain1, Miss Adeline Tinessia1, Miss Emma Campbell1, Dr Kerrie Wiley1,2
1The University Of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, 2Sydney Infectious Disease Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, 3Epidemiology and One Health, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, 4Westmead Clinical School & Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, 5Public Health Unit, Sunshine Coast Health, Queensland, Sunshine Coast, Australia
Biography:
She is a PhD candidate at the University of Sydney with four-years of experience in public health sectors in Nepal. Her roles in Australia, medical receptionist and research assistant, have given her valuable insights into the healthcare system. Her research is crucial to address public-health concerns regarding mosquito-borne diseases.
Abstract:
Introduction
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne disease of concern, with high case-fatality rates and significant long-term effects on survivors. In addition to preventing mosquito bites, vaccination is the most effective prevention method, but global uptake is limited. This study aims to systematically review global research on knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards JE vaccination.
Methods
We searched seven data bases, reference lists of included studies and grey literature for studies on KAP for JE vaccination. Studies were screened by a minimum of two independent reviewers. The data were then thematically summarised using the American Psychological Associations (APA) definitions of knowledge, attitudes and behavior to benchmark our synthesis.
Results
Of the 2452 records, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies examined four participants groups: vaccine recipients (travellers, caregivers and non-traveller adults), and vaccine providers/advocates. Of the few studies that reported knowledge, travellers and adult groups had little to no knowledge of the vaccine, whereas caregivers had knowledge gained through health workers and community leaders. Higher literacy among caregivers, non-traveller adults and vaccine advocates was associated with increased vaccine uptake. Attitudes were generally positive and influenced by health worker/community leaders. Practices among travellers were driven by cost and time. Cost, migration and vaccine availability drove practices among caregivers and non-traveller adults living in endemic countries.
Conclusion
There is limited information on KAP regarding Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccination in both endemic and non-endemic countries. Engaging community leaders/healthcare providers/advocates, and tailoring interventions for different population groups can help to improve JE vaccination uptake.