Speaker
Description
Introduction
Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the most common tick-borne disease in Europe. Considering its high incidence in Europe and increasing epidemiology, it is critical to understand drivers of vaccination intention and what influences them among adults in Germany.
Methods
We used an existing survey panel to conduct an online survey in 2022 of adults aged 18-65 years old in 20 European countries, with recruitment quotas on age, gender, and region. The survey included questions about knowledge of LB, tick exposure, and willingness to vaccinate against LB. We conducted descriptive analyses with weighting.
Results
Of 2732 respondents, 96% were aware of ticks and 85% were aware of LB. Among those aware of both, 74% reported they would be likely or very likely to get vaccinated against LB if their healthcare provider (HCP) recommended it, and 77% would be likely or very likely to get it if free of cost and recommended by their HCP. Furthermore, 58% would get vaccinated even if they had to receive multiple doses.The main barrier for vaccination was concern about possible vaccine side effects (51%). Most respondents believed that vaccination would decrease their chances of getting sick with LB (75%) and would reduce the likelihood of severe disease (77%).
Conclusion
In Germany, adults were generally likely to get vaccinated against LB. Side effects of the vaccine were a barrier to vaccination, but respondents believed vaccination would reduce their chances of getting sick with LB. Effective communication of LB risk and vaccine safety by HCPs may further increase willingness to vaccinate against LB among adults.
Keywords
lyme borreliosis, vaccine, willingness to vaccinate, survey, Germany
| Registration ID | OHS25-154 |
|---|---|
| Professional Status of the Speaker | Senior Scientist |
| Junior Scientist Status | No, I am not a Junior Scientist. |
Author
Co-authors
External references
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