Vaccination Coverage and Associated Factors of Hepatitis B, Measles-Mumps-Rubella, Varicella, and Tetanus-Diphtheria-Acellular Pertussis Among Primary Health Care Workers in Qatar: A Retrospective Study (2020–2024)
Sameera ALHAJRI, Anees A ALYAFEI, Sandy SEMAAN, Maryam AL MUSLEMANI and Asma AL NUAIMI
Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at increased risk of occupational exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases. Immunization protects both staff and patients. Although international guidelines recommend comprehensive vaccination for HCWs, uptake remains suboptimal in many countries, including Qatar. Limited published data exist for the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), the largest primary healthcare provider in Qatar. This study aimed to evaluate vaccination coverage and associated factors among PHCC healthcare workers for hepatitis B (HBV), measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), varicella (VAR), and tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap).To measure the vaccination coverage for HBV, MMR, VAR, and Tdap among PHCC healthcare workers between 2020 and 2024, and to explore demographic and occupational factors associated with vaccine uptake.A retrospective observational study was conducted using electronic medical records and HR data from 31 PHCC health centers. All healthcare workers employed for at least 3 months during 2020–2024 were included. Vaccination status for HBV, MMR, VAR, and Tdap was retrieved. Descriptive statistics were used to report coverage rates. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to identify predictors of vaccine uptake. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.005.Among 7,463 employees, the mean age was 40.8 years, with 65.1% female and 72.2% non-Qatari. Clinical staff made up 64.2% of the workforce. Vaccine coverage was: HBV 16.8%, MMR 5.9%, VAR 1.8%, and Tdap 12.9%. Younger age, female gender, non-Qatari nationality, fewer years of service, and higher education levels were significantly associated with greater uptake. Non-clinical staff had higher HBV coverage, while clinical staff had better varicella coverage.The study reveals suboptimal vaccination coverage in PHCC despite strong policy support. Multiple demographic and occupational disparities were found. These findings highlight gaps in staff immunization and the need for targeted interventions.Vaccination coverage among PHCC healthcare workers remains below international targets. Strengthening occupational vaccination programs with tailored strategies based on staff characteristics is essential to enhance coverage and improve healthcare safety.
