Factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake and intention among public transportation drivers: A cross-sectional study from Lebanon

Public transportation drivers (PTDs) are vulnerable to influenza and could potentially act as super-spreaders. Therefore, understanding the factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake is crucial for public health. This cross-sectional study evaluated the prevalence of and factors associated with influenza vaccination uptake and intention among PTDs in Lebanon. A face-to-face questionnaire was administered to 509 PTDs in 2023. Socio-demographics, health-related variables, environmental factors, social norms, and knowledge were collected. Vaccine Hesitancy and Vaccination Attitudes Examination scales were used. Chi-square test and hierarchical logistic regression analyses were performed. Influenza vaccine uptake rate was 28.9%, with 56.2% expressing an intention to receive the vaccine if it was affordable or available through a mobile clinic. Factors that were positively associated with vaccine uptake included: knowing someone who took the vaccine aOR = 3.6[2.2-6.1]; being advised to take the vaccine aOR = 2.1[1.2-3.8]; and previous influenza infection aOR = 1.9[1.4-2.7]. Factors negatively associated with vaccine uptake included: lack of confidence in vaccines aOR = 0.7[0.6-0.9] and risk calculation aOR = 0.8[0.6-0.9]. Factors positively associated with influenza vaccine intention were knowing someone who took the vaccine aOR = 2.2[1.4-3.4] and previously taking the influenza vaccine aOR = 1.8[1.1-3.0]. Factors negatively associated with vaccine intention were having an average socioeconomic status aOR = 0.6[0.4-0.9], lack of confidence aOR = 0.7[0.6-0.8], concerns about commercial profiteering aOR = 0.7[0.6-0.9], and a preference for natural immunity 0.8[0.6-0.9]. Enhancing vaccine accessibility and affordability along with targeted educational campaigns that address specific concerns and misinformation, could increase uptake rates among PTDs.