Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Low-Income Women considered High Priority for Receiving the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine Open Access

Abstract

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Low-Income Women considered
High Priority for Receiving the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine
By Catherine Allene Boyd
The primary purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and
behaviors of low-income women considered high priority for receiving the novel influenza A
(H1N1) vaccine to improve communication in preparedness and response. It took advantage of
existing communication frameworks through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to identify the factors that affect this high priority
population's ability to successfully comply with vaccination recommendations and to document the
systems and infrastructure needed to foster constructive responses in a sustainable manner in the
future. Six focus groups with WIC clients (n=56) and 10 individual interviews with staff members
were conducted at two WIC clinics in Georgia; one urban clinic in the metro-Atlanta area and one
from a rural area within 90 miles of Atlanta. Data were col ected after the 2009-10 influenza season
and analyzed using thematic analysis. Knowledge and attitudes regarding H1N1 differed among
participants with regard to perceived severity and perceived risk of influenza il ness. Participants
identified several barriers and motivators of receiving the vaccination, as wel as information needs,
sources, and information-seeking behaviors. Differences emerged between urban and rural women,
as wel as information between WIC clients and staff members regarding impressions of the
vaccine's use or recommendation, suggesting that while the information may be provided, it is not
effectively understood. The results of this study can aid in improving risk communication messages
and identifying effective methods to disseminate trusted information to high priority groups.
Furthermore, public health leaders can use these findings to inform comprehensive policy and
planning development regarding pandemic influenza and vaccine acceptance among low-income
women.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Chapter One: Introduction 1

Chapter Two: Literature Review 9

Chapter Three: Methodology 13

Chapter Four: Results 19

Chapter Five: Discussion 40

References 46

Appendices 49

About this Master's Thesis

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• Permission granted by the author to include this thesis or dissertation in this repository. All rights reserved by the author. Please contact the author for information regarding the reproduction and use of this thesis or dissertation.

School	Rollins School of Public Health
Department	Behavioral Sciences and Health Education
Degree	MPH
Submission	Master's Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Health Sciences, Public Health
Keyword	H1N1 Women WIC Vaccine Influenza
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Gazmararian, Julie A, Emory University
Committee Members	Thompson, Winifred, Emory University
Partnering Agencies	Emory University schools, faculty or affiliated programs Georgia state or local health department CDC

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