Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Herpes Zoster Vaccination Among Primary Healthcare Physicians: A Cross-sectional Survey in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the knowledge levels, attitudes, practices, and associated factors regarding herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination among primary healthcare physicians in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023, among 281 primary healthcare physicians in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which included a 15-point knowledge assessment scale and a Likert-type scale for attitudes and practices. Knowledge was deemed sufficient if the median score was achieved. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified predictors of knowledge sufficiency.

Results: Of the 288 physicians invited, 281 participated with a response rate of 97.6%. The mean age was 35.2 ± 8.4 years, with a male majority (n = 164; 58.4%). Adequate knowledge of HZ vaccination was observed in 176 (62.6%) participants. Knowledge was associated with a professional level (p = 0.027); years of experience (p = 0.020)-especially those with ≥ 5 years of experience (p = 0.038)-were significant predictors of adequate knowledge. Most physicians (71.5%) perceived the vaccine as safe, and 65.8% considered it a clinical priority; however, 47.3% cited time constraints as a barrier to recommending it to patients.

Conclusions: While knowledge levels among primary healthcare physicians in Jazan are acceptable overall, gaps in vaccination practices persist. Experience was a significant determinant of knowledge sufficiency, whereas time constraints were the primary barrier to vaccine recommendation. Targeted educational interventions and systemic adjustments were recommended to address time management challenges.