Influenza Vaccination Rates, Awareness, and Attitudes Among Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUNDS

The influenza vaccine is recommended annually for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study aimed to report the influenza vaccination rate among RA and SLE patients who are following up at Dammam Medical Complex (DMC), Dammam, Saudi Arabia, to evaluate their understanding of the influenza vaccine and its benefits, and to assess their attitudes regarding it, including any concerns or misconceptions.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. It included all patients with RA and SLE who were following up in the rheumatology clinic at DMC. The study was conducted between November 2024 and February 2025. Data was collected through a self-administered paper questionnaire in the clinic. Descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, counts, and percentages, were computed as required. For comparative analyses, the Chi-square test was employed for categorical variables, while the two-sample t-test was used for continuous variables.

RESULTS

A total of 261 patients participated in the study, including 191 RA patients (73.2%) and 70 SLE patients (26.8%). Out of the total, 131 patients (50.2%) reported that they had been vaccinated against influenza in the past. However, only 72 patients (27.6%) confirmed they had received the vaccine within the last two seasons, whereas a significant majority, 189 patients (72.4%), had not been vaccinated during this timeframe. Regarding the perception of the influenza vaccination's safety and effectiveness, 133 patients (51.0%) affirmed that they believed it to be safe and effective. When asked if the seasonal influenza vaccine is the best method to avoid complications from influenza, 153 patients (58.6%) agreed. Most patients (n = 140, 53.6%) were aware that seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for individuals with chronic diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed a low vaccination rate among RA and SLE patients in the last two seasons. To minimize the risk of complications, it is crucial to increase awareness about the benefits of influenza vaccination.