Influenza Impact and Vaccination Among Diverse UAE University Students

Overview

This cross-sectional study evaluated influenza-like illness burden, preventive practices, healthcare-seeking behaviors, and vaccination rates among multi-ethnic university students in the UAE. It identified disparities in vaccination uptake linked to sociodemographic and healthcare access factors, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

Background

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, with transmission primarily via respiratory droplets. It poses significant health risks, especially to high-risk groups such as immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women. Seasonal influenza epidemics cause substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide, including in the Eastern Mediterranean and North African region. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure, yet uptake varies across populations, influenced by cultural, socioeconomic, and healthcare access factors.

Data Highlights

The study focused on university students in the UAE, a multi-ethnic population with close living and social conditions conducive to influenza transmission. It assessed influenza-like illness incidence, preventive behaviors, healthcare-seeking patterns, and vaccination rates, examining associations with sociodemographic and clinical variables, including insurance coverage and illness severity.

Key Findings

• Influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and Influenza B viruses co-circulate annually, with Influenza A accounting for approximately 68% of cases in the EMNA region.
• Vaccination uptake among university students is generally suboptimal and varies by ethnicity and cultural background.
• Racial and ethnic minority groups often experience higher influenza-associated hospitalization rates and lower vaccination coverage.
• Preventive behaviors and healthcare-seeking patterns differ across student subpopulations, influenced by insurance status and perceived illness severity.
• Higher vaccination coverage contributes to herd immunity, reducing overall infection rates and protecting vulnerable individuals.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers and university health services should prioritize culturally tailored influenza vaccination campaigns targeting diverse student populations. Improving access to vaccination and addressing barriers related to insurance and healthcare trust can enhance uptake. Early recognition and management of influenza-like illness in university settings may reduce transmission and complications.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of understanding sociodemographic and healthcare factors influencing influenza burden and vaccination among multi-ethnic university students in the UAE. Targeted strategies are essential to improve preventive practices and vaccination coverage in this high-risk, close-contact population.

References

1. CDC 2023–24 -- Seasonal Influenza Burden Estimates
2. EMNA Regional Surveillance 2023 -- Influenza Virus Circulation Patterns
3. US CDC 2009–22 -- Racial Disparities in Influenza Hospitalization and Vaccination
4. Systematic Review 2022 -- Influenza Vaccination Uptake Among University Students