TITLE:
Socio-Psychological Determinants of Seasonal Flu Control, in the Context of Covid-19, in the Democratic Republic of Congo among Nurses
AUTHORS:
Saleh Muhemedi Kayumba, Thérèse Mambu Nyangi, Dosithé Ngo Bebe, Antoinette Tshefu Kitoto, Astride Piripiri Lina, Paul Samson Lusamba Bukasa
KEYWORDS:
Determinants, Seasonal Flu, DRC
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.11 No.1,
January
18,
2023
ABSTRACT: Background: Little is known about the socio-psychological
determinants of influenza control among health workers in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo (DRC). Our study aimed to describe the level of
knowledge, perceptions, attitudes and practices of nurses on seasonal influenza
and vaccination. Methods: This descriptive qualitative study conducted
in two major cities of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kinshasa and Lubumbashi,
was based on the health beliefs model. Data were collected using the focus
group technique and analyzed using thematic and phenomenological approaches. Results: Our study revealed that nurses had limited knowledge about seasonal
influenza. The majority confused the seasonal flu with Covid-19 because of the
similarities in their symptoms, modes of transmission and specific preventive
measures. In addition, the flu was perceived as mild, rarely or not at all
serious, not posing a threat to health. Most of them had an unfavourable
attitude to the vaccination and resorted to self-medication when they felt
sick. Conclusion: This study allowed us to understand the knowledge,
perceptions, and attitudes towards influenza vaccination and the practices of
nurses in two large cities in the DRC. However, it is crucial to train nurses
on seasonal flu and to make them aware of the vulnerable people s’ mortality
risk.