RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Herpes zoster (shingles) is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. Despite the recommended herpes zoster vaccine for individuals aged ≥ 50 years, its uptake remains low in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This cross-sectional study assessed knowledge and awareness of herpes zoster and its vaccine in individuals aged ≥ 50 years in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through an online survey distributed via social media. RESULTS: Among 402 participants, 57.2% had heard of the shingles vaccine, but only 7.7% received it. However, 53.2% expressed willingness to be vaccinated. Multivariable analysis revealed that those aged 56-60 were 1.8 times more likely to accept the vaccine than those aged 50-55 years (p = 0.03). Men were 1.9 times more likely to accept the vaccine than women (p = 0.01). Additionally, participants with a primary education were 16.1 times more likely to accept the vaccine than those with a higher education (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the need for increased awareness and education among healthcare providers and the public in Saudi Arabia regarding shingles and its vaccine. The low vaccine uptake calls for effective strategies, such as awareness campaigns and provider reminders. Primary education and vaccine hesitancy influence willingness to be vaccinated.
This study aimed to understand how much people in Saudi Arabia know about shingles (herpes zoster) and the vaccine to prevent it. Shingles is a viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After having chickenpox, the virus can stay in the body and reactivate later in life, causing shingles. We conducted an online survey among adults aged 50 years and above to gather information. Many people had heard about shingles, but their knowledge about it was limited. Healthcare providers were not a significant source of information for most participants, showing the need for more awareness and education from healthcare professionals. We also looked at people's attitudes towards the shingles vaccine. Only a small percentage of participants had received the vaccine, but many expressed willingness to get vaccinated. However, certain factors like age, gender, and education level influenced people's willingness to take the vaccine. The low vaccine uptake is concerning because shingles can lead to serious health problems. To increase vaccine acceptance, we suggest implementing awareness campaigns and providing reminders to people and healthcare providers. It's also important to address concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy. In conclusion, our study showed the need for more awareness and education about shingles and its vaccine among adults in Saudi Arabia. By addressing the barriers to vaccine uptake and promoting its benefits, we can reduce the burden of shingles and its complications in the older population.
RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: The emergence of the coronavirus disease has forced governments worldwide to implement non-pharmaceutical interventions that imposed strict confinement policies on their populations, including children and adolescents. Subsequently, the education system has shifted from traditional to online classroom settings, introducing physical and lifestyle changes in students. This study aimed to determine the impact of virtual education in comparison with that of traditional education on body weight among school-age students in western Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out between March 2020 and May 2021 and assessed pediatric patients at the Pediatric Endocrine Clinic at King Abdulaziz Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A clinical interview was performed to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, physical activity levels, and electronic device usage. Body mass index (BMI) was determined using the Center for Disease Control and Prevention standards. RESULTS: In total, 518 participants (262 female and 256 male students) aged six to 18 years were assessed. The BMI significantly increased from a mean of 19.24, before the pandemic, to 20.08, after the commencement of the virtual study modality (p<0.001) that involved the increased use of electronic devices. Moreover, the proportion of physical inactivity significantly increased during weekdays (39%) and weekends (37.5%). CONCLUSION: Due to the many obesogenic factors influenced by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the findings indicate the need for further research and interventions to avoid the incidence of overweight and obesity among students. Many obesogenic factors are influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affect the student's physical activity and lifestyle by increasing the risk of overweight and obesity. Therefore Further research and interventions are needed.
