A qualitative interview study exploring barriers and facilitators to uptake of measles vaccination among healthcare workers at a London hospital.

Introduction: Healthcare workers (HCW) are at increased risk of measles due to their occupational exposure. Yet, there is evidence of low vaccination rates, inadequate immunity among this group, and many do not know their vaccination status. The aim of this qualitative study is to explore barriers and facilitators to measles vaccination and reasons why some HCW do not know their vaccination status.

Methods: We conducted 23 online semi-structured interviews with HCW recruited from a teaching hospital in London. HCW were eligible to participate if they had direct patient contact, had not had measles, and were either (a) unsure of their vaccination status, (b) unvaccinated, (c) partially vaccinated, or (d) vaccinated after joining the hospital. We used framework analysis to identify themes and subthemes.

Results: Facilitators to measles vaccination included protection of self and others, being prompted and pragmatic considerations such as being required to be vaccinated for work. Barriers included the accessibility of vaccination, concerns about vaccine safety, and low perceived risk of and from measles. Fractured vaccination records and a lack of perceived importance of measles vaccination may contribute to some HCW not knowing their vaccination status.

Conclusion: Making vaccination accessible, increasing knowledge and awareness of measles and measles vaccination, and prompting those who require vaccination may support vaccination decisions. A central, easy-to-access App or portal which sends reminders for boosters may reduce the number of HCW who are unsure of their vaccination status.