[Criteria of the patient's decision concerning vaccination against influenza AH1N1, in Belgium and France].

INTRODUCTION: We have analyzed the reasons evoked by the patients to decide or not to be vaccinated against AH1N1 influenza, in France and Belgium.

METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were performed, recorded and transcribed for analysis. Fifty-eight interviews were performed with patient living in the region of Midi-Pyrénées, France (21 interviews) and in the province of Liège, Belgium (37 interviews). The patients were recruited by general practitioners. Within the sample, some patients were vaccinated against AH1N1 influenza and others were not.

RESULTS: Five criteria influenced the decision to be vaccinated or not: how people understand the epidemic and the threats it represents; their representation about the vaccine (and its harmlessness); their beliefs and representations about vaccination; the influence of the health professionals' opinion; the discussions between the patient and his acquaintances; and how the patient seeks for information.

CONCLUSION: These elements can be considered as criteria influencing the decision about any vaccination. They reflect the patient's subjectivity, the patient's perception of vaccination. Investigating these dimensions in the patient's mind can help the practitioner to positively influence the reluctant patients. Identifying threats and received ideas should allow the doctor to correct them and accept vaccination.