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Yasmin M, Tfaily MA, Wazzi Mkahal R, Obeid R, Emery RP, Hassouna H, Bhugra M, Bonomo RA, Kanafani ZA. Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: A Cross-Sectional Study in Three Communities in the United States and Lebanon. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1200. [PMID: 38930582 PMCID: PMC11205586 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic underscores the significance of vaccine hesitancy in shaping vaccination outcomes. Understanding the factors underpinning COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy is crucial for tailoring effective vaccination strategies. This cross-sectional study, conducted in three communities across the United States and Lebanon, employed surveys to assess respondents' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding COVID-19 infection and vaccination. Among the 7196 participants, comprising 6775 from the US and 422 from Lebanon, vaccine hesitancy rates were comparable at 12.2% and 12.8%, respectively. Notably, a substantial proportion of respondents harbored misconceptions, such as attributing the potential to alter DNA (86.4%) or track individuals (92.8%) to COVID-19 vaccines and believing in the virus's artificial origins (81%). US participants had more misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine, such as altering DNA or causing infertility. Lebanese participants were more likely to question the origins of the virus and the speed of vaccine development. Additionally, US respondents were less worried about infection, while Lebanese respondents were more indecisive but less likely to outright reject the vaccine. Primary determinants of hesitancy included perceptions that the vaccine poses a greater risk than the infection itself (aOR = 8.7 and 9.4, respectively) and negative recommendations from healthcare providers (aOR = 6.5 and 5.4, respectively). Conversely, positive endorsements from healthcare providers were associated with reduced hesitancy (aOR = 0.02 and 0.4, respectively). Targeting healthcare providers to dispel misinformation and elucidate COVID-19 vaccine risks holds promise for enhancing vaccination uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Yasmin
- Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (M.Y.); (R.A.B.)
| | - Mohamad Ali Tfaily
- Department of Internal Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - Rayyan Wazzi Mkahal
- Faculty of Medicine and the Medical Center, American University of Beirut, Cairo Street, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Rita Obeid
- Department of Internal Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (R.O.); (M.B.)
| | - Rebecca P. Emery
- Spectrum Health, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (R.P.E.); (H.H.)
| | - Habiba Hassouna
- Spectrum Health, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (R.P.E.); (H.H.)
| | - Mudita Bhugra
- Department of Internal Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (R.O.); (M.B.)
| | - Robert A. Bonomo
- Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (M.Y.); (R.A.B.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (R.O.); (M.B.)
| | - Zeina A. Kanafani
- Faculty of Medicine and the Medical Center, American University of Beirut, Cairo Street, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
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Abebe D, Mengistu T, Demssie EA, Mesfin S. Corona virus vaccine hesitancy among higher education students in Adama City, Oromia, Ethiopia. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1364225. [PMID: 38590806 PMCID: PMC10999607 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1364225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Vaccination stands as the most efficient approach for managing the continued transmission of infections and preventing the emergence of novel variants. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy poses a significant burden in the fight to achieve herd immunity. Methods A cross-sectional study, based on institutional parameters, was conducted among a cohort of 530 higher education students, selected via a simple random sampling method. Study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique from February to March 2022. Structured questionnaire data were gathered and subsequently analyzed using SPSS version 21. The strength of the association between various factors and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was assessed using the odds ratio along with its 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance was deemed to be present at a p-value of < 0.05. Result The prevalence of coronavirus vaccine hesitancy was 47.5%. The factors that were found to be significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were residential address (AOR = 2.398, 95% CI: 1.476-3.896); agreeing with leaders and groups that do not support COVID-19 vaccination (AOR = 2.292, 95% CI: 1.418-3.704); coming from a community whose leaders support COVID-19 vaccination for young adults (AOR = 0.598, 95% CI: 0.381-0.940), and believing that COVID-19 vaccines are safe (AOR = 0.343,95% CI: 0.168-0.701). Conclusion Approximately five out of 10 students who participated in this study were hesitant to get vaccinated against coronavirus. Incorporating messages and initiatives into local plans to specifically target the factors identified in this study is imperative for substantially increasing the COVID-19 vaccine uptake among students in higher education institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawit Abebe
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
| | - Tewodros Mengistu
- Department of Public Health, Adama General Hospital and Medical College, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Enku Afework Demssie
- Department of Public Health, Adama General Hospital and Medical College, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Sinetibeb Mesfin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
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Zayoud D, Haddad C, Khachman D, Ajrouche R, Lahoud N. Estimating COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in pregnant and lactating women: a cross-sectional study in Lebanon. Arch Public Health 2024; 82:38. [PMID: 38500217 PMCID: PMC10949662 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-024-01267-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic highlights vaccination's critical role in reducing morbidity and mortality, depending on public attitude. This study aims to identify the estimates of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in pregnant and lactating women, as well as associated potential factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted between August and September 2021, through an online survey and with a paper survey distributed in gynecology and pediatric clinics. Pregnant and breastfeeding women aged 18 years and above were recruited. The attitude scale was created specifically for evaluating attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine. RESULTS In total, 207 women participated, with 132 breastfeeding, 74 pregnant and 1 experiencing both conditions. Of these, one hundred and twenty women (58%) considered themselves at risk for COVID-19 infection. In addition, 51.7% (n = 107) of women expressed the intent to receive the vaccine once available. A multivariable linear regression was conducted taking the COVID-19 vaccination attitude scale as a dependent variable. The results revealed an R-squared value of 0.558, indicating that approximately 55.8% of the variance in the attitude scale was accounted for by the included predictors. The results showed that preventive measures (ß=2.25, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [1.02; 3.48], p < 0.001), preference for vaccines made in Europe and America (ß=1.23; 95% CI [0.69-1.77], p < 0.001), protect yourself for getting sick (ß=4.22, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [2.83; 5.61], p < 0.001) and belief in the importance of vaccination for themselves and their baby (ß=3.49; 95% CI [2.01; 4.98], p < 0.001) were associated with a positive attitude towards vaccination. Conversely, experiencing a previous bad reaction to a vaccine (ß= -1.35; 95% CI [0.85-1.85], p < 0.001) and concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccine safety (ß= -4.09; 95% CI [-5.98; -2.21], p < 0.001) were associated with a negative attitude towards vaccination. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal that COVID-19 vaccine acceptability among pregnant and breastfeeding women, amidst the pandemic was insufficient to meet community immunity. The identified reasons for vaccine reluctance, notably concerns about safety for both personal health and the health of their pregnancy or newborns, along with insufficient information about the vaccine, underscore the pressing need to address these factors to improve immunization rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Zayoud
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Chadia Haddad
- Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon.
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Fanar, Lebanon.
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, P.O. Box 60096, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
| | - Dalia Khachman
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roula Ajrouche
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Sciences and Arts in Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Lahoud
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Fanar, Lebanon
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Kawamura Y, Kato M, Miyawaki R, Ishikawa H, Muilenburg JL, Tomar YA. Cultural Tightness-Looseness: How Was It Related to Vaccination Behavior among University Students in Japan, the United States, and India? Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1821. [PMID: 38140225 PMCID: PMC10746997 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
As a next step to better understand the role of cultural tightness-looseness (CTL), this study aimed to examine whether CTL is associated with COVID-19 vaccination behavior among university students, taking into consideration sociocultural perceptions of vaccination across countries. A global online survey was conducted. University students from Japan, the US, and India participated. The average CTL score, three sociocultural perceptions related to COVID-19 vaccination, side effects, infection experience of themselves and family members, and other demographic variables were used to identify the model and to explain the second vaccination status using stepwise logistic regression methods with Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) scores which was for both the total, with the country as a variable, and for each country. Analyses of data from 1289 respondents who received the first vaccine revealed the essential role of CTL in individuals getting the second vaccine, while also revealing differences between countries. Regardless of the limitations, this study adds knowledge about CTL's roles in the COVID-19 vaccination behavior among young generations and provides insights into public health communication practices for issues like COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Kawamura
- School of Health Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Mio Kato
- Center for Emergency Preparedness and Response, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shinjuku-ku 162-8640, Japan
| | - Rina Miyawaki
- School of Arts and Letters, Meiji University, Suginami-ku 168-8555, Japan
| | - Hirono Ishikawa
- Graduate School of Public Health, Teikyo University, Itabashi-ku 173-8605, Japan
| | | | - Yuki Azaad Tomar
- Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, Delhi 110016, India
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Nabeel M, Ali K, Bajwa A, Rehman HU, Rashid M, Rasool MF, Islam M, Saeed H. Knowledge, beliefs and hesitancy among medical and non-medical university students toward COVID-19 vaccination in Punjab, Pakistan. BIODEMOGRAPHY AND SOCIAL BIOLOGY 2023; 68:196-208. [PMID: 37873818 DOI: 10.1080/19485565.2023.2272718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the knowledge, beliefs, and hesitancy toward COVID-19 vaccination among medical (MS) and nonmedical students (NMS) in Punjab, Pakistan. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted by enrolling 624 MS and 476 NMS in the largest province of Pakistan, i.e., Punjab. Chi-square tests were used to determine significant frequency distributions, and logistic regression to determine associations. The majority of students, males and females, were between 18-25 years of age and had good self-reported health. MS demonstrated adequate knowledge and positive beliefs about COVID-19. Fewer MS were indecisive about the vaccination; nonetheless, overall, 71.5% of MS and 78.2% of NMS were willing to receive the vaccine. A greater number of MS students were concerned about vaccine safety or side effects. A greater number of NMS demonstrated misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine - its effect on fertility and alterations in genomic DNA. The binary logistics regression exhibited a significant association between students' knowledge in the medical sciences (OR;1.53,p = 0.002) and area of residence (OR;1.60,p = 0.008). Compared to NMS, MS had a better understanding of the COVID-19 vaccine and were concerned about the acceptability of the vaccine, although NMS had misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine. Knowledge was significantly associated with the field of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Nabeel
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Khubaib Ali
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Amna Bajwa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Haseeb Ur Rehman
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Mamoona Rashid
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fawad Rasool
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Islam
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hamid Saeed
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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Salam M, Honein-AbouHaidar G. Determinants of influenza and COVID-19 vaccine intent or uptake in Lebanon: a scoping review of the literature. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:511. [PMID: 37544988 PMCID: PMC10404373 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08478-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccination is essential to protect from influenza and recently from COVID-19, yet uptake in Lebanon is suboptimal. Several factors determine uptake including knowledge, attitude and policies. We conducted a scoping review of the literature to explore the determinants of influenza and COVID-19 vaccine intent or uptake in Lebanon. METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, thirty one peer reviewed studies indexed in six databases Pub Med, EMBASE, Scopus, CINAHL, Medline, and the Cochrane Library were screened. Two students, a senior Librarian and an Associate Professor in nursing searched for eligible studies. The library search strategy followed a combination of three broad concepts (viral influenzas; vaccines; Lebanon). The search timeframe was up till December 31, 2022. Determinants of influenza and COVID-19 vaccine intent or uptake were categorized following the constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior. RESULTS Nine studies investigated influenza vaccine intent or uptake among the public community, parents and healthcare workers. Twenty one studies investigated COVID-19 vaccine intent or uptake among the public community, older refugees, university students, patients with cancer, dentists, and social media users. One study investigated both types of vaccines. A conceptual model of the determinants of vaccine intent and uptake within the Lebanese context was developed. Various determinants included environmental factors, norms, knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, past experiences, behavioral control and hesitancy. CONCLUSIONS Research on vaccine intent and uptake in Lebanon is still in its infancy, while that of COVID-19 is on the rise. Multifaceted reasons behind the low vaccination rates were observed yet few attempts were made to target vulnerable groups. Further research studies are needed to target vulnerable groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Salam
- Rafic Hariri School of Nursing, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Gladys Honein-AbouHaidar
- Rafic Hariri School of Nursing, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon.
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Alam Z, Mohamed S, Nauman J, Al-Rifai RH, Ahmed LA, Elbarazi I. Hesitancy toward vaccination against COVID-19: A scoping review of prevalence and associated factors in the Arab world. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2245720. [PMID: 37594508 PMCID: PMC10443971 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2245720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite widespread availability of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 virus, the cause of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), its uptake in many Arab countries is relatively low. This literature review aimed to scope evidence on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (VH) in the Arab world. A total of 134 articles reporting prevalence of COVID-19 VH and associated factors, conducted in any of the 22 Arab League countries, were reviewed. COVID-19 VH prevalence ranged from 5.4% to 83.0%. Female gender, young age, low education level and lack of previous influenza vaccine uptake were most commonly reported to be associated with COVID-19 VH. The most-reported personal concerns contributing toward VH were related to the rapid development, safety and side effects of vaccine, as well as an overall lack of trust in government policies toward pandemic control and widespread conspiracy theories. Tailored interventions to enable the distribution of trusted information and enhance public acceptance of immunization are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zufishan Alam
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salma Mohamed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Javaid Nauman
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL-PIVOT) Network, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Pourrazavi S, Fathifar Z, Sharma M, Allahverdipour H. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy: A Systematic review of cognitive determinants. Health Promot Perspect 2023; 13:21-35. [PMID: 37309435 PMCID: PMC10257562 DOI: 10.34172/hpp.2023.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Although mass vaccination is considered one of the most effective public health strategies during the pandemic, in the COVID-19 era, many people considered vaccines unnecessary and, or doubted the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine. This review aimed to tabulate cognitive causes of COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy, which may help public health policymakers overcome the barriers to mass vaccinations in future pandemics. Methods: For this systematic review, studies pertaining to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy published up to June 2022 were retrieved from six online databases (Cochrane Library, Google Scholar Medline through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science). Inclusion criteria were the studies conducted on people who had a delay in accepting or refusing COVID-19 vaccines, reported the impact of cognitive determinants on vaccine hesitancy, and were written in English in the timeframe of 2020-2022. Results: This systematic review initially reviewed 1171 records. From these 91 articles met the inclusion criteria. The vaccination hesitation rate was 29.72% on average. This systematic review identified several cognitive determinants influencing vaccination hesitancy. Lack of confidence and complacency were the most frequent factors that predicted vaccine hesitancy. Conclusion: The identified prevailing cognitive determinants for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy indicated that using initiative and effective communication strategies would be a determinant factor in building people's trust in vaccines during the pandemic and mass vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Pourrazavi
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Health Education & Promotion Department, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Fathifar
- Department of Library, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Manoj Sharma
- Department of Social and Behavioral Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA
| | - Hamid Allahverdipour
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Health Education & Promotion Department, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Using Social Marketing to Promote COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake: A Case Study from the "AUBe Vaccinated" Campaign. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020459. [PMID: 36851336 PMCID: PMC9962593 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The availability of and access to COVID-19 vaccines has been challenging in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), coupled with mistrust in public health organizations instigated by misinformation and disinformation diffused by traditional and social media. In the Spring of 2021, the American University of Beirut (AUB) in Lebanon spearheaded a nationwide vaccination drive with the ambitious goal of vaccinating its entire community by the beginning of the academic year 2021-2022, as the campus was due to be opened only to vaccinated individuals. This case study outlines the development, implementation, and evaluation of a social marketing campaign to encourage COVID-19 vaccinations among members of the AUB community, comprising students, faculty, staff, and dependents. Following French and Evans' 2020 guidelines, we implemented an evidence-based and co-designed strategy to maximize the availability and facilitate vaccine access. The campaign used a mix of methods to convince the segments of the population to receive their shots before accessing campus, resulting in a 98% uptake among the community segments within three months (July-September 2021). In this case study, we reflect on the experience and share suggestions for future research and applications that other higher education institutions could use to address similar problems.
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Trümmler J, Heumann E, Helmer SM, Busse H, Stock C, Negash S, Pischke CR. Determinants of vaccination behavior among university students 20 months after the COVID-19 outbreak: Results of the COVID-19 German Student Well-being Study (C19 GSWS). Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2141497. [PMID: 36509741 PMCID: PMC9766462 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2141497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence indicates a higher COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among university students due to their age and a lower risk of COVID-19 related complications compared to the general population in Germany. However, little is known about the other determinants of COVID-19 vaccination behavior for the population of German university students. This study aimed to investigate determinants of vaccination behavior in this population. The cross-sectional COVID-19 German Student Well-being Study was conducted at five German universities from October 27th to November 14th, 2021, via an online survey (n=7,267). Multiple logistic regressions were calculated to examine associations of psychological antecedents of vaccination (5Cs: confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation, collective responsibility), Critical Health Literacy in a Pandemic (CHL-P), and additional determinants (previous infection, trust in the health care system, feeling informed about the COVID-19 vaccine) and vaccination status (not vaccinated vs. fully vaccinated). All 5Cs were associated with reporting to be vaccinated, except for complacency. Regarding the CHL-P, students who felt that the current scientific knowledge about COVID-19 in terms of the policy decisions on pandemic measures was very complex had higher odds for reporting being vaccinated (OR=3.02; 95% CI: 2.26-4.04). Students who felt well informed about the COVID-19 vaccines were also more likely to report being fully vaccinated (OR=2.20; 95% CI: 1.51-3.21). Due to our finding that the 5Cs are associated with vaccination status among university students, we recommend that the different components of the 5Cs should be considered in future vaccination campaigns implemented in the university context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jannis Trümmler
- Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Sociology, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Eileen Heumann
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
| | - Stefanie M Helmer
- Faculty 11 Human and Health Sciences, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Heide Busse
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz-Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology-BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Christiane Stock
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.,Unit of Health Promotion Research, University of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Sarah Negash
- Institute for Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Claudia R Pischke
- Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Sociology, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
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Abou-Arraj NE, Maddah D, Buhamdan V, Abbas R, Jawad NK, Karaki F, Alami NH, Geldsetzer P. Perceptions of, and Obstacles to, SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Among Adults in Lebanon: Cross-sectional Online Survey. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e36827. [PMID: 36383635 DOI: 10.2196/36827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic is an additional burden on Lebanon's fragmented health care system and adds to its ongoing political, economic, and refugee crises. Vaccination is an important means of reducing the impact of the pandemic. OBJECTIVE Our study's aims were to (1) assess the prevalences of intention to vaccinate and vaccine hesitancy in Lebanon; (2) determine how vaccine hesitancy in Lebanon varies by sociodemographic, economic, and geographic characteristics; and (3) understand individuals' motivations for vaccinating as well as concerns and obstacles to vaccination. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study from January 29, 2021, to March 11, 2021, using an online questionnaire of open- and closed-ended questions in Arabic via convenience "snowball" sampling to assess the perceptions of adults residing in Lebanon. RESULTS Of the 1185 adults who participated in the survey, 46.1% (95% CI: 43.2%-49.0%) intended to receive the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine when available to them, 19.0% (95% CI 16.8%-21.4%) indicated they would not, and 34.0% (95% CI 31.3%-36.8%) were unsure (with an additional 0.9% skipping this question). The most common reasons for hesitancy were concerns about safety, limited testing, side effects, and efficacy. Top motivations for vaccinating were to protect oneself, protect one's family and the public, and end the pandemic. Despite financial hardships in Lebanon, barriers to vaccine access were not frequently described as concerns. Established health care facilities, rather than new temporary vaccination centers, were most frequently selected as preferred vaccination sites. CONCLUSIONS Vaccine hesitancy appears to be high in Lebanon. Disseminating clear, consistent, evidence-based safety and efficacy information on vaccines may help reduce vaccine hesitancy, especially among the large proportion of adults who appear to be unsure about (rather than opposed to) vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeem Elias Abou-Arraj
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.,Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Diana Maddah
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Vanessa Buhamdan
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roua Abbas
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nadine Kamel Jawad
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Fatima Karaki
- Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health Initiative (RAHI), Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Nael H Alami
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Pascal Geldsetzer
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.,Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, United States
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12
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Bussink-Voorend D, Hautvast JLA, Vandeberg L, Visser O, Hulscher MEJL. A systematic literature review to clarify the concept of vaccine hesitancy. Nat Hum Behav 2022; 6:1634-1648. [PMID: 35995837 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-022-01431-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy (VH) is considered a top-10 global health threat. The concept of VH has been described and applied inconsistently. This systematic review aims to clarify VH by analysing how it is operationalized. We searched PubMed, Embase and PsycINFO databases on 14 January 2022. We selected 422 studies containing operationalizations of VH for inclusion. One limitation is that studies of lower quality were not excluded. Our qualitative analysis reveals that VH is conceptualized as involving (1) cognitions or affect, (2) behaviour and (3) decision making. A wide variety of methods have been used to measure VH. Our findings indicate the varied and confusing use of the term VH, leading to an impracticable concept. We propose that VH should be defined as a state of indecisiveness regarding a vaccination decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne Bussink-Voorend
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Primary and Community Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Jeannine L A Hautvast
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Primary and Community Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Lisa Vandeberg
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Olga Visser
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Primary and Community Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marlies E J L Hulscher
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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13
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Mudenda S, Ngalande N, Mukosha M, Hikaambo CN, Daka V, Matafwali SK, Banda M, Mfune RL, Mayoka G, Witika BA. Knowledge and practices toward COVID-19 among healthcare students: A cross-sectional study at the University of Zambia. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1028312. [PMID: 36530704 PMCID: PMC9748439 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1028312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic led to the disruption of physical classes for university students globally, as large gatherings fuelled the transmission of the virus. In the efforts to mitigate its transmission and return to normality, prevention measures, including vaccination, have been encouraged. Therefore, it is critical to understand the knowledge and practices of students regarding COVID-19. This study assessed the knowledge and practices toward COVID-19 among healthcare students at the University of Zambia. Materials and methods This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2021 to October 2021 among 478 healthcare students (pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing, biomedical, medicine, and radiography). We used a previously validated questionnaire to measure knowledge and practice. The predictors of knowledge and practices were assessed using logistic regression with robust estimation of standard errors. Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata/BE version 17.0. Results Of the 478 respondents, 243 (50.8%) were females. A larger proportion, 175 (36.6%) were in Pharmacy training, and 156 (32.6%) were in their fifth year of study. The overall mean knowledge score of the participants was 87.9 (SD = 16.1), being higher at 89.6 (SD = 14.3) among medical students and the lowest at 86.7 (SD = 17.1) among Pharmacy students, although this was statistically non-significant (p = 0.488). The overall mean practice score was 60.0 (SD = 24.7), being significantly higher at 63.5 (23.4) among nursing, physiotherapy and environmental students compared to other students (p = 0.048). In multivariable analysis, the participant training program was non-significantly associated with knowledge and practice toward COVID-19. However, increased age (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01-1.117) and residing in urban areas (AOR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.07-3.01) than in rural areas were associated with higher odds of good practice toward COVID-19. Conclusion The healthcare students generally showed good knowledge levels and poor practices toward COVID-19. Further, there was no evidence of a difference in knowledge of COVID-19 among healthcare students. These findings suggest the need for implementation strategies to be centered on improving the practices of students toward COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nelly Ngalande
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Moses Mukosha
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Victor Daka
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola, Zambia
| | - Scott Kaba Matafwali
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michelo Banda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ruth Lindizyani Mfune
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola, Zambia
| | - Godfrey Mayoka
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bwalya Angel Witika
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
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14
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The influence of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 on vaccination hesitancy among postsecondary students. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20564. [PMID: 36446831 PMCID: PMC9707274 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to explore the influence of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 on vaccination hesitancy among Slovenian postsecondary students. A cross-sectional study using a set of previously tested instruments and ad hoc questions created by the authors was chosen as the method to gain insight into various health and sociodemographic aspects of Slovenian postsecondary students affected by the COVID-19-induced closures and suspensions of educational activities at tertiary educational institutions (N = 5999). Overall, 39.7% of participating students expressed an intention to get vaccinated at the first possible opportunity, whereas 29.2% expressed no intent to do so. The highest vaccine hesitancy was observed among prospective teachers (50.3%) and the lowest among prospective physicians (5,7%). When examining the role of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 on the Slovenian postsecondary students' intentions to get vaccinated the results of logistic regression showed that only fear of COVID-19 played a mild and significant role.
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15
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Predictors of unwillingness to receive COVID -19 vaccines among Ethiopian Medical students. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276857. [PMID: 36322591 PMCID: PMC9629586 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Medical students are among the potential risky population for the transmission of COVID 19 infections; their willingness to receive COVID 19 vaccine is not well studied. Thus, this study assessed Predictors of Unwillingness to receive COVID -19 vaccines among Ethiopian Medical students. Methods From the 25th of May, 2020 to the 26th of June, 2021, an institution-based cross-sectional study was done at Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital,On 313 medical students from each department and batch were chosen using a multistage sampling approach. A bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were done to identify the predictors of Unwillingness to receive COVID -19 vaccines. Figures, tables, and graphs were used to present the findings. The adjusted odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval were provided. Results In this study 124 (40.7%) 95% CI (35.1,46.4) medical students were not willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. And also increased in the age of the student[AOR 0.43, 95% CI; (.29,.63)], Knowledge status about COVID 19 infection transmission, risk factors and control behavior[AOR 1.45, 95% CI; (1.14, 1.85)], perceived susceptibility to COVID 19 infection [AOR 1.70 (1.15, 2.51)], perceived severity of COVID 19 infection[AOR 1.26 (1.01, 1.57)], perceived benefit of COVID 19 vaccine [AOR .58(.38, .88)], positive attitude towards COVID 19 vaccines [AOR .46(.35, .62)], and confidence in safety and efficacy of the vaccine and public authorities decissin in the best interest of the community [AOR 1.93(1.24, 2.99)] were predictors of non-willingness to receive COVID 19 vaccine. Conclusion Non-willingness to accept the COVID 19 vaccine was predicted by student age, elements in the Health belief model such as anticipated susceptibility, severity, and benefit, and a positive attitude and trust in the vaccine.
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16
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Mallhi TH, Bokharee N, Bukhsh M, Khan YH, Alzarea AI, Khan FU, Khan SUD, Alotaibi NH, Alanazi AS, Butt MH, Alatawi AD, Iqbal MS. Evaluation of knowledge and barriers of influenza vaccine uptake among university students in Saudi Arabia; a cross-sectional analysis. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13959. [PMID: 36193439 PMCID: PMC9526417 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Influenza vaccine hesitancy is a significant threat to global maneuvers for reducing the burden of seasonal and pandemic influenza. This study estimated the vaccine uptake, barriers, and willingness for influenza vaccines among university students in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among health science (HS) and non-health science (NHS) university students. A 31-item questionnaire was used to ascertain the vaccination rate, barriers, and willingness for the flu vaccine. Results This study included 790 students (mean age: 21.40 ± 1.94 years), 246 (31.1%) from HS and 544 (68.9%) from NHS disciplines. About 70% did not take flu shots before the arrival of the winter. The mean knowledge score was 7.81 ± 1.96, where 20.4%, 67.6%, and 12% of respondents had good, moderate, and poor knowledge regarding flu vaccines. The relative importance index (RII) analysis showed a lack of recommendation from physicians (51.5%, RI ranked: 1) was a top-ranked barrier to vaccine uptake, followed by negative perceptions and accessibility issues. Only 36.6% of the participants were willing to get vaccinated every year, 70% were willing to receive a vaccine on their doctor's recommendations, and 46% agreed to vaccinate if vaccines were freely available in the university. The knowledge, barriers, and willingness widely varied across students from two disciplines. Conclusions Our analysis underscored low flu vaccine uptake among university students. In addition, the study participants' knowledge was unsatisfactory, and they were less inclined to receive the flu vaccine in the future. Lack of recommendation from the physicians, negative perceptions towards the flu vaccine, and difficult accessibility were found as significant barriers to the vaccine uptake. A multidimensional approach at educational institutes to cover the knowledge gap and address the barriers curtailing the vaccination rate among students is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nida Bokharee
- Pharmacy Services Department, Midcity Hospital, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Munnaza Bukhsh
- Department of Medicine, Foundation University and Medical College, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Ibrahim Alzarea
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Faiz Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Salah-Ud-Din Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser Hadal Alotaibi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Salah Alanazi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Hammad Butt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ahmed D. Alatawi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Shahid Iqbal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-kharj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Fajar JK, Sallam M, Soegiarto G, Sugiri YJ, Anshory M, Wulandari L, Kosasih SAP, Ilmawan M, Kusnaeni K, Fikri M, Putri F, Hamdi B, Pranatasari ID, Aina L, Maghfiroh L, Ikhriandanti FS, Endiaverni WO, Nugraha KW, Wiranudirja O, Edinov S, Hamdani U, Rosyidah L, Lubaba H, Ariwibowo R, Andistyani R, Fitriani R, Hasanah M, Nafis FAD, Tamara F, Latamu FO, Kusuma HI, Rabaan AA, Alhumaid S, Mutair AA, Garout M, Halwani MA, Alfaresi M, Al Azmi R, Alasiri NA, Alshukairi AN, Dhama K, Harapan H. Global Prevalence and Potential Influencing Factors of COVID-19 Vaccination Hesitancy: A Meta-Analysis. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10081356. [PMID: 36016242 PMCID: PMC9412456 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Countries worldwide have deployed mass COVID-19 vaccination drives, but there are people who are hesitant to receive the vaccine. Studies assessing the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy are inconclusive. This study aimed to assess the global prevalence of COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy and determine the potential factors associated with such hesitancy. We performed an organized search for relevant articles in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Extraction of the required information was performed for each study. A single-arm meta-analysis was performed to determine the global prevalence of COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy; the potential factors related to vaccine hesitancy were analyzed using a Z-test. A total of 56 articles were included in our analysis. We found that the global prevalence of COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy was 25%. Being a woman, being a 50-year-old or younger, being single, being unemployed, living in a household with five or more individuals, having an educational attainment lower than an undergraduate degree, having a non-healthcare-related job and considering COVID-19 vaccines to be unsafe were associated with a higher risk of vaccination hesitancy. In contrast, living with children at home, maintaining physical distancing norms, having ever tested for COVID-19, and having a history of influenza vaccination in the past few years were associated with a lower risk of hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccination. Our study provides valuable information on COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy, and we recommend special interventions in the sub-populations with increased risk to reduce COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonny Karunia Fajar
- Brawijaya Internal Medicine Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +962-79-184-5186
| | - Gatot Soegiarto
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Yani Jane Sugiri
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Anshory
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Laksmi Wulandari
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | | | - Muhammad Ilmawan
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Kusnaeni Kusnaeni
- Faculty of Matematics and Sciences, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Fikri
- Faculty of Matematics and Sciences, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
| | - Frilianty Putri
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedicine, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
| | - Baitul Hamdi
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | | | - Lily Aina
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Lailatul Maghfiroh
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | | | - Wa Ode Endiaverni
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | | | - Ory Wiranudirja
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Sally Edinov
- Faculty of Economics and Business, Riau University, Pekanbaru 28293, Indonesia
| | - Ujang Hamdani
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Lathifatul Rosyidah
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Hanny Lubaba
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Rinto Ariwibowo
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Riska Andistyani
- Faculty of Economy and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Ria Fitriani
- Faculty of Administrative Science, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Miftahul Hasanah
- Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | | | - Fredo Tamara
- Brawijaya Internal Medicine Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Fitri Olga Latamu
- Brawijaya Internal Medicine Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Hendrix Indra Kusuma
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Darussalam, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, Universitas Islam Negeri Ar-Raniry, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Ali A. Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran 31311, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur 22610, Pakistan
| | - Saad Alhumaid
- Administration of Pharmaceutical Care, Al-Ahsa Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abbas Al Mutair
- Research Center, Almoosa Specialist Hospital, Al Mubarrazs 36342, Saudi Arabia
- College of Nursing, Princess Norah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
- School of Nursing, Wollongong University, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Nursing Department, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran 33048, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Garout
- Department of Community Medicine and Health Care for Pilgrims, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad A. Halwani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al Baha University, Al Baha 4781, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mubarak Alfaresi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Sheikh Khalifa General Hospital, Umm Al Quwain 499, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Reyouf Al Azmi
- Infection Prevention and Control, Eastern Health Cluster, Dammam 32253, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada A. Alasiri
- Scientific Advisory Council, InsanCare Group for Scientific Studies and Specialized Business Solutions, Riyadh 13313, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer N. Alshukairi
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah 12713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR–Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, India
| | - Harapan Harapan
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
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South African University Staff and Students’ Perspectives, Preferences, and Drivers of Hesitancy Regarding COVID-19 Vaccines: A Multi-Methods Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10081250. [PMID: 36016138 PMCID: PMC9412872 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy poses a threat to the success of vaccination programmes currently being implemented. Concerns regarding vaccine effectiveness and vaccine-related adverse events are potential barriers to vaccination; however, it remains unclear whether tailored messaging and vaccination programmes can influence uptake. Understanding the preferences of key groups, including students, could guide the implementation of youth-targeted COVID-19 vaccination programmes, ensuring optimal uptake. This study examined university staff and students’ perspectives, preferences, and drivers of hesitancy regarding COVID-19 vaccines. A multi-methods approach was used—an online convenience sample survey and discrete choice experiment (DCE)—targeting staff and students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The survey and DCE were available for staff and students, and data were collected from 18 November to 24 December 2021. The survey captured demographic characteristics as well as attitudes and perspectives of COVID-19 and available vaccines using modified Likert rating questions adapted from previously used tools. The DCE was embedded within the survey tool and varied critical COVID-19 vaccine programme characteristics to calculate relative utilities (preferences) and determine trade-offs. A total of 1836 staff and students participated in the study (541 staff, 1262 students, 33 undisclosed). A total of 1145 (62%) respondents reported that they had been vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination against COVID-19 was less prevalent among students compared with staff (79% of staff vs. 57% of students). The vaccine’s effectiveness (22%), and its safety (21%), ranked as the two dominant reasons for not getting vaccinated. These concerns were also evident from the DCE, with staff and students being significantly influenced by vaccine effectiveness, with participants preferring highly effective vaccines (90% effective) as compared with those listed as being 70% or 50% effective (β = −3.72, 95% CI = −4.39 to −3.04); this characteristic had the strongest effect on preferences of any attribute. The frequency of vaccination doses was also found to have a significant effect on preferences with participants deriving less utility from choice alternatives requiring two initial vaccine doses compared with one dose (β = −1.00, 95% CI = −1.42 to −0.58) or annual boosters compared with none (β = −2.35, 95% CI = −2.85 to −1.86). Notably, an incentive of ZAR 350 (USD 23.28) did have a positive utility (β = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.76 to 1.53) as compared with no incentive. Given the slow take-up of vaccination among youth in South Africa, this study offers valuable insights into the factors that drive hesitancy among this population. Concerns have been raised around the safety and effectiveness of vaccines, although there remains a predilection for efficient services. Respondents were not enthusiastic about the prospect of having to take boosters, and this has played out in the roll-out data. Financial incentives may increase both the uptake of the initial dose of vaccines and see a more favourable response to subsequent boosters. Universities should consider tailored messaging regarding vaccine effectiveness and facilitate access to vaccines, to align services with the stated preferences of staff and students.
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Willingness to Accept the COVID-19 Vaccine and Related Factors among Indian Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10071095. [PMID: 35891259 PMCID: PMC9317945 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
To achieve herd immunity to a disease, a large portion of the population needs to be vaccinated, which is possible only when there is broad acceptance of the vaccine within the community. Thus, policymakers need to understand how the general public will perceive the vaccine. This study focused on the degree of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and refusal and explored sociodemographic correlations that influence vaccine hesitancy and refusal. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among the adult population of India. The survey consisted of basic demographic questions and questions from the Vaccination Attitudes Examination (VAX) Scale. Multinomial logistical regression was used to identify correlates of vaccine hesitancy and refusal. Of the 1582 people in the study, 9% refused to become vaccinated and 30.8% were hesitant. We found that both hesitancy and refusal predictors were nearly identical (lower socioeconomic status, female gender, and older age groups), except for three groups (subjects aged 45−64 years, those with approximate income <10,000 INR/month, and those residing in rural households) that showed slightly higher odds of vaccine hesitancy than refusal. We need to address the underlying sociodemographic determinants and formulate public awareness programs to address specific subgroups that are at higher risk of rejecting the vaccine and convert those who are undecided or hesitant into those willing to accept the vaccine.
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Rahman MM, Chisty MA, Alam MA, Sakib MS, Quader MA, Shobuj IA, Halim MA, Rahman F. Knowledge, attitude, and hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccine among university students of Bangladesh. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270684. [PMID: 35759475 PMCID: PMC9236250 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Global vaccination coverage is an urgent need to recover the recent pandemic COVID-19. However, people are concerned about the safety and efficacy of this vaccination program. Thus, it has become crucial to examine the knowledge, attitude, and hesitancy towards the vaccine. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among university students of Bangladesh. Total of 449 university students participated. Most of these students used the internet (34.74%), social media (33.41%), and electronic media (25.61%) as a source of COVID-19 vaccine information. Overall, 58.13% and 64.81% of university students reported positive knowledge and attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccine. 54.34% of these students agreed that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective. 43.88% believed that the vaccine could stop the pandemic. The Spearman’s Rank correlation determined the positive correlation between knowledge and attitude. The negative correlation was determined between positive knowledge and hesitancy, and positive attitude and hesitancy. University students with positive knowledge and attitude showed lower hesitancy. Multiple logistic regression analyses determined the university type and degree major as the predictors of knowledge, whereas only degree major was the predictor of attitudes. 26.06% of the study population showed their hesitancy towards the vaccine. University type and degree major were also determined as predictors of this hesitancy. They rated fear of side effects (87.18%) and lack of information (70.94%) as the most reasons for the hesitancy. The findings from this study can aid the ongoing and future COVID-19 vaccination plan for university students. The national and international authorities can have substantial information for a successful inoculation campaign.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Disaster and Human Security Management, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Bangladesh University of Professionals, Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- * E-mail:
| | - Musabber Ali Chisty
- Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerability Studies, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Ashraful Alam
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mohammed Sadman Sakib
- Department of Disaster and Human Security Management, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Bangladesh University of Professionals, Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Masrur Abdul Quader
- Department of Disaster and Human Security Management, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Bangladesh University of Professionals, Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ifta Alam Shobuj
- Department of Disaster and Human Security Management, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Bangladesh University of Professionals, Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Abdul Halim
- Department of Disaster and Human Security Management, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Bangladesh University of Professionals, Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Farzana Rahman
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Independent University, Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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21
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Misconceptions Related to COVID 19 Vaccines Among the Jordanian Population: Myth and Public Health. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2022; 17:e207. [PMID: 35673791 PMCID: PMC9300972 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2022.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assesses misconceptions about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine and the factors associated with misconception among Jordanians. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was conducted. The survey was formulated on Google Forms, and was hosted on an online platform. These questions were created based on extensive review of online information about the vaccines. Frequencies and percentages (%) were used for categorical variables, while means and standard deviations (SDs) were used for continuous variables. Stepwise binary logistic regression was conducted to evaluate variables associated with participant's misconception questions. RESULTS Of 1195 survey respondents who participated in the study, 41.3% had received the COVID-19 vaccine. The mean misconception score was (60.0 ± 19.1). The statement with the highest mean was "The vaccine hasn't been tested on enough people" (3.6 ± 1.0). The statement with the lowest mean was "The COVID-19 vaccine includes a microchip to control us" (2.2 ± 1.1) in the conspiracy theory portion. Females, 18- to 29-age group, higher educational level, living in a city, the participants who took lectures about the COVID-19 vaccine and vaccinated participants had higher odds of being in the low misconception level group. CONCLUSION Targeted campaigns and vaccine safety information should be part of a broader health education campaign to alleviate vaccination safety concerns.
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22
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Li S, Gao Z, Zhong M, Yu Z, Li J, Bi H. Chinese University Students' Awareness and Acceptance of the COVID-19 Vaccine: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthc Policy 2022; 15:845-864. [PMID: 35519502 PMCID: PMC9064172 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s360274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The emergence of the mutant virus has exacerbated the COVID-19 epidemic, and vaccines remain an effective and viable means of resistance. As a socially influential young group, university students’ awareness and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine are crucial to achieving herd immunity. This study aimed to assess the awareness and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among Chinese university students and identify possible factors associated with their awareness level and vaccine hesitancy. Patients and Methods An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted among Chinese university students between 10 and 28 June 2021. We collected information on the demographic characteristics, awareness and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine, and influencing factors. Sleep disturbances and anxiety disorders were also evaluated. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed. Results Among the 721 participants (aged 18 to 23 years) with a female predominance (68.9%), 40.4% of cases exhibited moderate awareness the COVID-19 vaccine, and 87.4% of cases expressed high acceptance of the vaccine. Participants’ awareness of the COVID-19 vaccine was associated with gender, ethnicity, region of residence, grade level, satisfaction with current state of pandemic control, the perceived likelihood of a COVID-19 pandemic rebound, the source number of COVID-19 information, concerns about differences in vaccine manufacturers, acceptance of current state-approved vaccines and insomnia level. Furthermore, age, preferred channels for vaccination and the acceptance of current state-approved vaccines were significantly associated with their acceptance of the vaccine. Conclusion This study reflected Chinese university students’ high acceptance, but insufficient awareness of the COVID-19 vaccine, some students have insomnia and anxiety problems. These require the government to take measures such as individualized publicity and education, adding professional psychological counseling courses to improve the university students’ awareness of vaccines and public health events, and comprehensively promote vaccination to cope with the ever-changing situation of the COVID-19 epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirui Li
- Department of Biostatistics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihui Gao
- Department of Biostatistics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Meihan Zhong
- Department of Biostatistics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhujun Yu
- Department of Biostatistics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoran Bi
- Department of Biostatistics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China.,Center for Medical Statistics and Data Analysis, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
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23
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Chamon Q, Govindin Ramassamy K, Rahis AC, Guignot L, Tzourio C, Montagni I. Persistence of Vaccine Hesitancy and Acceptance of the EU Covid Certificate Among French Students. J Community Health 2022; 47:666-673. [PMID: 35513757 PMCID: PMC9070970 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-022-01092-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Covid-19 vaccine hesitancy among young adults is a current public health issue that needs to be addressed considering the seasonally driven waves of disease and the administration of vaccine boosters. As a prevention measure, the EU Covid certificate had been implemented to increase vaccine uptake, but its application was controversial. Our study investigated students’ opinions and attitudes towards Covid-19 vaccination and the EU Covid certificate through a mixed-methods design. An 18-item questionnaire was administered to 200 students during a vaccination campaign in September 2021 at the University of Bordeaux, France. Simultaneously, 30 students attended a semi-structured interview. Collected data were analyzed separately then discussed together through a parallel and convergent approach. Results showed that vaccine hesitancy was high among students, mostly from fear of short-term side effects. However, respondents decided to get vaccinated to obtain the EU Covid certificate, even if they considered it as a violation of their freedom. Straightforward communication about Covid-19 vaccination did not reach students, although this was a strong expectation from governmental and health institutions. Findings suggest that key health personnel should provide evidence-based information about vaccines in efforts of building trust with young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Chamon
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, U1219, University of Bordeaux - Inserm, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Kyllian Govindin Ramassamy
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, U1219, University of Bordeaux - Inserm, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Anne-Cécile Rahis
- Student Health Center, University of Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Lucie Guignot
- Student Health Center, University of Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Christophe Tzourio
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, U1219, University of Bordeaux - Inserm, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Ilaria Montagni
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, U1219, University of Bordeaux - Inserm, 33000, Bordeaux, France.
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Nizam A, Iqbal T, Mashood H, El Nebrisi E. Analyzing COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among University Students in UAE: A Cross-Sectional Study. DUBAI MEDICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1159/000523993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> While vaccines may be a key measure in overcoming the pandemic, their hesitancy among the population may impede the ongoing efforts of governments and health authorities in a country. Universities are considered the hubs of the transition of individuals to young adults, understanding the hesitancy of this population stratum and addressing apprehensions that may exist is of utmost importance. This study aims to explore the attitude and hesitancy of students in UAE universities toward the COVID-19 vaccines along with comparing two particular demographics to see if there exists a difference in outcomes-medical and nonmedical students. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A web-based self-administered questionnaire was sent following Ethics Committee approval, to students at various universities in the UAE containing questions regarding general demographic data, COVID-19 related anamnestic characteristics as well as questions on motivational factors and refusal factors regarding the vaccine. Using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 28, descriptive analyses were performed for the demographic variables and inferential statistics were carried out using Pearson’s Chi-squared (χ<sup>2</sup>) test. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A total of 385 participants consented to the survey, with a majority of female respondents (76.6%). In our demographics which included respondents of an average age of 21 years, 91.4% were expatriates, and 48.1% were based in Dubai. Approximately 67% of those surveyed had been vaccinated, with Sinopharm being the most commonly taken vaccine (70.4%). “Concerns over side effects” seems to be the most common reason for vaccine refusal (58.7%) among all demographics whether vaccinated or not. Our sample included a majority of students with a medical and health sciences background (58.7%), who disagreed more often with the belief that they were completely protected by receiving the COVID-19 vaccine as compared to the nonmedical students. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> COVID-19 vaccination rates among university students in UAE are lower than the national average, demonstrating the importance of integrating a specific awareness program for this group. Preparing medical students for the future is a beneficial long-term strategy, and hence, further research regarding vaccine hesitancy must be done focusing primarily on them to ensure their future patients receive the best vaccine-related recommendations.
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25
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Cheikh Ismail L, Osaili TM, Mohamad MN, Al Marzouqi A, Habib-Mourad C, Abu Jamous DO, Ali HI, Al Sabbah H, Hasan H, Hassan H, Stojanovska L, Hashim M, AlHaway M, Qasrawi R, Shaker Obaid RR, Al Daour R, Saleh ST, Al Dhaheri AS. Assessment of Dietary and Lifestyle Responses After COVID-19 Vaccine Availability in Selected Arab Countries. Front Nutr 2022; 9:849314. [PMID: 35495916 PMCID: PMC9048021 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.849314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has been consistently associated with unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and dietary practices. This study aimed to assess the dietary and lifestyle behaviors of adults after COVID-19 vaccine availability and their attitude toward the vaccine in selected Arab countries. Methods A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted between October 2021 and December 2021 using Google Forms (n = 2259). A multi-component questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic characteristics, attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine, and behavioral, dietary, and lifestyle responses after easing the restriction. Participants were given a score based on the sum of positive dietary and lifestyle changes. The generalized linear models were used to identify the association between positive dietary and lifestyle changes score and sociodemographic characteristics. Results Weight gain during the pandemic was reported by 39.5% of the participants, 36.1% reported ever getting infected with the COVID-19 virus, and 85% received at least one dose of the vaccine. The key adverse reactions of the COVID-19 vaccine were fatigue, headache, and joint pain, and the main reason for vaccination was protection against infection. Most participants were concerned about the vaccine side effects (45.8%) and inadequate testing (50.7%). After easing of restriction, 54.3% of the participants reduced the frequency of disinfecting objects, and 58.3% joined social events. Most dietary and lifestyle behaviors remained unchanged after vaccine availability but there was an increase in the time spent behind the screen for work (50.1%) and entertainment (42.9%). The results of the multivariate regression analyses revealed that older participants (p = 0.001), those with higher education (p = 0.010), and those working from home (p = 0.040) were more likely to have higher positive dietary and lifestyle changes scores. Conclusion Although most participants were concerned about vaccine safety, low vaccine hesitancy rates were observed among the study sample. The availability of the COVID-19 vaccines resulted in loosening some of the safety social measures among Arab adults but the negative impact of the pandemic on dietary and lifestyle behaviors remained unaltered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Cheikh Ismail
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Tareq M. Osaili
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Maysm N. Mohamad
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amina Al Marzouqi
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Carla Habib-Mourad
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dima O. Abu Jamous
- Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Habiba I. Ali
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haleama Al Sabbah
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hayder Hasan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hussein Hassan
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lily Stojanovska
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mona Hashim
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Muna AlHaway
- Blood Transfusion and Research Center, Emirates Health Services, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Radwan Qasrawi
- Department of Computer Science, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
- Department of Computer Engineering, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Reyad R. Shaker Obaid
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rameez Al Daour
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sheima T. Saleh
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ayesha S. Al Dhaheri
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Ophir Y, Walter N, Walter D, Velho RM, Lokmanoglu AD, Pruden ML, Andrews EA. Vaccine Hesitancy Under the Magnifying Glass: A Systematic Review of the Uses and Misuses of an Increasingly Popular Construct. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022:1-15. [PMID: 35361020 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2022.2054102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Resistance to vaccines has hindered attempts to contain and prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases for centuries. More recently, however, the term "vaccine hesitancy" has been used to describe not necessarily outright resistance but also a delay in acceptance or uncertainty regarding vaccines. Given concerns about hesitancy and its impact on vaccine uptake rates, researchers increasingly shifted the focus from resistance to vaccines toward vaccine hesitancy. Acknowledging the urgency to accurately assess the phenomenon, it is critical to understand the state of the literature, focusing on issues of conceptualization and operationalization. To carry out this systematic review, we collected and analyzed all published empirical articles from 2000 to 2021 that explicitly included quantitative self-report measures of vaccine hesitancy (k = 86). Using a mixed-method approach, the review demonstrates and quantifies crucial inconsistencies in the measurement of the construct, lack of clarity in regard to the determination of who should or should not be defined as hesitant, and overreliance on unrepresentative samples. Crucially, our analysis points to a potential systematic bias toward exaggerating the level of hesitancy in the population. Modeling a vaccine hesitancy co-citation network, the analysis also points to the existence of insular academic silos that make it harder to achieve a unified measurement tool. Theoretical and practical implications for academics, practitioners, and policymakers are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yotam Ophir
- Department of Communication, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | - Nathan Walter
- Department of Communication Studies, Northwestern University
| | - Dror Walter
- Department of Communication, Georgia State University
| | - Raphaela M Velho
- Department of Communication, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | | | - Meredith L Pruden
- Center for Information, Technology and Public Life, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Emily A Andrews
- Department of Communication Studies, Northwestern University
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27
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Low JM, Soo CWT, Phuong TA, Zhong Y, Lee LY. Predicting vaccine hesitancy among parents towards COVID-19 vaccination for their children in Singapore. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:994675. [PMID: 36299688 PMCID: PMC9589407 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.994675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There was a considerably slower uptake among children despite the high COVID-19 vaccination uptake amongst adults and adolescents in Singapore. This was concerning as unvaccinated children are at risk of severe COVID-19 infections and a source and reservoir of infections. We sought to understand the impact of social media on parental vaccine hesitancy and to determine the risk factors associated with vaccine hesitancy. METHODS An electronic survey conducted from November 2021 to March 2022. Data on the demographic profiles of respondents and to classify them based on their vaccine hesitancy status. Data including the choice of social media used to obtain information on the COVID-19 pandemic, frequency of use were collected. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. RESULTS Six hundred and twenty-eight parents participated. 66.9% of parents were not vaccine hesitant. About a third (27.2%) considered themselves somewhat vaccine hesitant. Fathers were more vaccine hesitant than mothers. Vaccine hesitancy was also associated with having a lower household income, unvaccinated parents, knowing someone with an adverse reaction to the Covid 19 vaccine and having a low level of trust in their child's doctor. There was no significant difference with high usage of social media between parents who were not vaccine hesitant vs. those who were vaccine hesitant. Despite high usage of social media, about two thirds (62.7%) of parents preferred print material to obtain COVID-19 related information. Parental trust in their child's doctor was the most significant factor in determining vaccine hesitancy amongst parents. When the variables of gender, household income status, vaccine status were further analysed with a multinomial logistic regression model, vaccine hesitancy in a parent could be predicted with a 70% accuracy, and non-vaccine hesitancy with a 92.4% accuracy. CONCLUSION Newspapers and print media were the primary sources used in obtaining information on COVID-19 vaccine safety and efficacy, especially amongst parents with a higher household income. Healthcare providers should continue to establish rapport amongst parents, in particular the group with a lower household income to encourage higher paediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake as well as correct COVID-19 related vaccine misconceptions or vaccine hesitancy, if present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Ming Low
- Department of Neonatology, Khoo Teck Puat - National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chloe Wen Ting Soo
- Department of Neonatology, Khoo Teck Puat - National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - T A Phuong
- Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Youjia Zhong
- Department of Neonatology, Khoo Teck Puat - National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Le Ye Lee
- Department of Neonatology, Khoo Teck Puat - National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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