KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES OF COVID-19 VACCINE AMONGST PEDIATRIC RESIDENTS IN NYC

ABSTRACT

Purpose of Study Since early 2020, COVID-19 has infected millions worldwide. Within the first year of the pandemic, COVID-19 vaccines were given emergency use authorization (EUA) by Food and Drug Administration. Healthcare workers, including pediatric residents, were among the earliest recipients of the vaccine. However, there was vaccine hesitancy prior to the NYS employment mandate. There are no studies highlighting knowledge (K), attitudes (A), and practices (P) towards the COVID-19 vaccine amongst pediatric residents in NYC. Objective To investigate K, A, and P on COVID-19 vaccine among pediatric residents in NYC. Methods Used Online SurveyMonkey questionnaires were emailed to pediatric residents in NYC from August 2021 to December 2021. The questionnaire included demographics, K according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), A, and P questions. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SurveyMonkey. Summary of Results Invitations were sent to chief residents of pediatric training programs in NYC. Of 93 respondents, three quarters (75%) were female and most just started their training (PGY-1 40%, PGY-2 30%, PGY-3 28% and PGY-4 2%). Most were from non-university based programs (57%). Almost all (99%) were vaccinated with either Pfizer/BioNTech (82%) or Moderna (16%) and the remainder due to unavailability at the work site. Side effects included pain at the injection site (70%), fatigue/malaise (30%) and muscle aches (21%). Most knew which vaccines were available for EUA (83%). Common documented side effects of approved vaccines were correctly identified (64%) except for incorrect side effects of joint pain (52%) and allergic reaction (32%). Majority welcomed the vaccines with happiness (61%) or excitement (56%). Doubt, anxiety, fear and hesitancy were reported in less than half (45%). Primary sources of information were obtained from the CDC (84%) and scientific publications (46%). All participants would recommend the vaccine to their family and friends. After being vaccinated, most would continue wearing masks (94%) and social distancing (70%). Pediatric residents tested COVID positive prior to vaccination in 13% and after vaccination in 4%. Conclusions Pediatric residents in NYC have sufficient K on COVID-19 vaccines and its side effect profile. As healthcare providers, pediatric residents are protected, prepared and are advocates for vaccination.