During December 2009 and January 2010, the ISG conducted a survey amongst healthcare workers, seeking feedback on their response and attitudes to the pandemic flu vaccination.

Included in the survey was a competition seeking ideas for methods to improve health care worker vaccination uptake. There were many interesting and novel ideas, but in the end it was decided to give the prize ($250 Myer voucher) to Ms Heather Sarvas, who is a nurse. Her suggestion was to make one month a year a vaccination month. The ISG is currently looking at the feasability of starting such an program in 2011.

The ISG would like to thank all those who participted in the survey.

Key survey findings

Responses: 742

At the time of the survey 60% of participants had been vaccinated. 31% of the remainder intended to be vaccinated.

75% indicated that the vaccine was provided free at work.

59% included self preservation as a reason for vaccination, while 46% included protecting others as a key reason (12 % included travel and 11% to set a good example).

74% said they would recommend the pandemic vaccination to family and friends.