Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Influenza Vaccination Compliance Among Healthcare Workers at the Primary Health Care Corporation, Qatar, 2020-2024: A Retrospective Study.

Abstract

Background Healthcare workers (HCWs) are a priority population for vaccination due to their high exposure risk and critical role in maintaining healthcare system resilience. While COVID-19 vaccination campaigns have achieved notable success globally, seasonal influenza vaccine uptake remains inconsistent. This study assesses COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccination coverage among HCWs at the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) in Qatar between 2020 and 2024, and identifies associated demographic and occupational determinants. Methods A retrospective, observational study was conducted using data extracted from PHCC's electronic medical records system (EMRS) and Human Resources Database (HRD), encompassing 31 health centers. All HCWs employed for ≥3 months were included. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize vaccination rates, and chi-square tests were applied to assess associations between vaccine uptake and variables such as age, gender, nationality, job role, years of service, and educational attainment. Results Among 7,463 eligible HCWs (100%), COVID-19 vaccine uptake was high (94.05%), with 18,844 doses administered. Seasonal influenza vaccine coverage was comparatively lower at 65.20%, representing 4,866 HCWs, with 16,533 doses given. Higher age, non-Qatari nationality, female gender (for COVID-19), and shorter service duration were significantly associated with increased uptake (p < 0.05). Educational attainment showed statistically significant associations for both vaccines, although coverage rates were similar across qualification levels. Clinical role was not significantly associated with influenza uptake, but it was significant for COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusion COVID-19 vaccination compliance among HCWs at PHCC was robust and aligned with high-income country benchmarks. However, seasonal influenza vaccination remains below the WHO-recommended 75% threshold. Findings underscore the need for sustained institutional efforts to address vaccine fatigue and promote annual influenza immunization, particularly among younger, Qatari, and longer-serving HCWs. Tailored strategies, education, and institutional mandates may enhance future vaccine compliance and protect healthcare system integrity.