Association Between The Level Of Knowledge Of Herpes Zoster And Visiting To Health Centers In Makah Al-Mukarramah 2023

Abstract

Background:

Herpes zoster (HZ) is a viral infection that occurs due to the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Reactivation of the latent virus causes a painful dermatomal rash that is typical in HZ, which is frequently accompanied b[1]y post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). Although HZ negatively impacts individuals’ quality of life, vaccination has been shown to reduce the incidence of HZ and PHN and reduce the severity of the disease in the event of a breakthrough. Nonetheless, several studies have shown a low level of knowledge and poor practices regarding HZ and its vaccine. However, only two studies on this issue have been conducted in the Middle East. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward HZvaccinations among the Saudi population aged 50 years and older.  Herpes zoster (HZ) infection can significantly impair the quality of life of the affected individuals, and its treatment imposes a considerable cost burden on the health-care system and on society at large. However, there is little information on the perception of this disease and the acceptability of vaccines in Saudi Arabia. Aim of the study: To assessment association between the level of knowledge of herpes zoster and visiting to health centers in Makah Al-Mukarramah 2023. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at patients with history among the herpes zoster visiting the primary health sector in Makah City, from April  to July 2023, 100 patients were included and data were collected by using a written questionnaire also online questionnaire and telephone interviews, was developed based on a literature review, to assessed the Level of knowledge of herpes zoster. Results: most of the participants (30.0%) were in the age group(60-69) the majority of them male were (62.0%), marital status most of participants married were(78.0%), patient enrollment sites in health centers the majority of participant are family medicine clinic  were(72.0%). Conclusion: The results suggest that educational campaigns on Herpes zoster infection and its vaccine targeting at-risk groups are required to raise awareness and increase the public’s knowledge. Additionally, healthcare personnel's recommendation of the HZ vaccine to the target population should be encouraged, as it is an important factor in vaccine acceptability.