Assessment of Awareness, Knowledge, and Vaccine Acceptability of Herpes Zoster in Saudi Arabia 2022

Abstract

Background:

      Herpes Zoster is a viral infection that occurs due to reactivation of the Varicella Zoster virus. A vaccine has been approved for adults aged 50 and above for the prevention of Herpes Zoster and its complications, despite the recommended herpes zoster vaccine for individuals aged ≥ 50 years, its uptake remains low in Saudi Arabia. Herpes zoster infection can significantly impair the quality of life of the affected individuals, and its treatment imposes a considerable cost burden on the health-care system and on society at large. However, there is little information on the perception of this disease and the acceptability of vaccines in Saudi Arabia. Herpes Zoster, also known as shingles, is a skin condition caused by the reactivation of a latent varicella zoster virus, which is the virus that also causes chickenpox. Herpes Zoster is most commonly seen in patients who are older than age 50, immune compromised or receiving immunosuppressive therapy, Zostavax reduced the incidence of Herpes Zoster infection in those aged 60 years and older and in those aged 70 years and older by 51.3% and 38% respectively, and the incidence of post herpetic neuralgia (PHN) by 66.5% and 66.8% respectively.

Aim of the study: To assessment of awareness, knowledge, and Vaccine Acceptability of Herpes Zoster in Saudi Arabia 2022.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at patients with history among the herpes zoster visiting the primary health sector in Saudi Arabia, from April to May 2022, 200 patients were included and data were collected by using a written questionnaire also online questionnaire and telephone interviews, was developed based on a literature review.

Results: shows that most of the participants (41.0%) were in the age group (40-49) years regarding educational attainment the majority of participant are Undergraduate were(40.0%) regarding employment status the majority of participant are employed were(69.0%) regarding history of chronic diseases the majority of participant answer Yes were(66.0%).

Conclusion: There is a large difference in self-reported Herpes zoster  and vaccination rates among races. The Herpes zoster vaccination rate was low overall, but most patients were interested in receiving the vaccine after the education. More public awareness and education is needed to improve rates of Herpes zoster vaccination .