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Al-Abdulla O, Alaref M, Kallström A, Kauhanen J. Individual and social determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake in Northwest Syria. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:265. [PMID: 38429739 PMCID: PMC10908183 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10756-z] [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: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 outbreak devastated the fragmented health system in Syria, a war-torn country, and exaggerated the demands for humanitarian assistance. COVID-19 vaccination was rolled out in Northwest Syria, an area out of government control, in May 2021. However, vaccine acceptance rates are still minimal, which is reflected in the meager percentage of vaccinated people. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of the humanitarian actors' plans to address the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and conclude practical strategies for boosting vaccine uptake in Northwest Syria. METHODS AND MATERIALS Two questionnaires were developed to collect data from humanitarian organizations involved in the COVID-19 vaccination campaign and people from northwest Syria. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 22 data analysis program. RESULTS According to the findings, 55.5% of people refused the COVID-19 vaccine. The results showed a knowledge gap and lack of evidence regarding humanitarian actors' strategies to address the vaccine's low uptake. Besides, it was found that doctors and medical workers were reliable sources of information about the vaccine. However, they were not systematically engaged in community mobilization and risk communication to promote people's perspectives on the vaccine. CONCLUSION Risk communication and community engagement programs were not significantly associated with increasing the COVID-19 acceptance rate. Humanitarian actors must reconsider their strategies to address vaccine hesitancy in Northwest Syria. These strategies should engage medical professionals through dialogue sessions on the realities of the pandemic and vaccine development mechanism based on a compelling and evidence-based approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orwa Al-Abdulla
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Eastern Finland, 70211, Kuopio, P.O. Box 1627, Finland.
| | - Maher Alaref
- Strategic Research Center (Öz SRC), Incili Pinar MAH, Gazi Muhtar Paşa BUL, Doktorlar Sitesi, 38E, 104, 27090, Sehitkamil, Gaziantep, Türkiye
| | - Agneta Kallström
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Eastern Finland, 70211, Kuopio, P.O. Box 1627, Finland
- Strategic Research Center (Öz SRC), Incili Pinar MAH, Gazi Muhtar Paşa BUL, Doktorlar Sitesi, 38E, 104, 27090, Sehitkamil, Gaziantep, Türkiye
| | - Jussi Kauhanen
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Eastern Finland, 70211, Kuopio, P.O. Box 1627, Finland
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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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Nikoloski Z, Chimenya D, Alshehari A, Hassan H, Bain R, Menchini L, Gillespie A. COVID-19 Vaccination Personas in Yemen: Insights from Three Rounds of a Cross-Sectional Survey. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1272. [PMID: 37515086 PMCID: PMC10386099 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071272] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
We used three rounds of a repeated cross-sectional survey on COVID-19 vaccination conducted throughout the entire territory of Yemen to: (i) describe the demographic and socio-economic characteristics associated with willingness to be vaccinated; (ii) analyse the link between beliefs associated with COVID-19 vaccines and willingness to be vaccinated; and (iii) analyse the potential platforms that could be used to target vaccine hesitancy and improve vaccine coverage in Yemen. Over two-thirds of respondents were either unwilling or unsure about vaccination across the three rounds. We found that gender, age, and educational attainment were significant correlates of vaccination status. Respondents with better knowledge about the virus and with greater confidence in the capacity of the authorities (and their own) to deal with the virus were more likely to be willing to be vaccinated. Consistent with the health belief model, practising one (or more) COVID-19 preventative measures was associated with a higher willingness to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Respondents with more positive views towards COVID-19 vaccines were also more likely to be willing to be vaccinated. By contrast, respondents who believed that vaccines are associated with significant side effects were more likely to refuse vaccination. Finally, those who relied on community leaders/healthcare workers as a trusted channel for obtaining COVID-19-related information were more likely to be willing to be vaccinated. Strengthening the information about the COVID-19 vaccination (safety, effectiveness, side effects) and communicating it through community leaders/healthcare workers could help increase the COVID-19 vaccine coverage in Yemen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zlatko Nikoloski
- London School of Economics and Political Science, Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE, UK
| | | | | | | | - Robert Bain
- UNICEF Middle East and North Africa Regional Office, Amman 11821, Jordan
| | - Leonardo Menchini
- UNICEF Middle East and North Africa Regional Office, Amman 11821, Jordan
| | - Amaya Gillespie
- UNICEF Middle East and North Africa Regional Office, Amman 11821, Jordan
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Hassan OEH, Al-Aghbari AA, McGowan M, Dar Iang M, Basaleem HO, Al-Sakkaf KA, Hyzam D, Jahn A, Dureab F. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward COVID-19 prevention in Yemen: a community-based cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1178183. [PMID: 37492140 PMCID: PMC10364124 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1178183] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pandemics, especially in fragile war-torn countries like Yemen, challenge their already strained health systems. Community adherence to pandemic prevention measures is necessary to curb the severity and spread of emerging pandemics - which is influenced by factors, such as people's knowledge and attitudes toward the pandemic. No studies in Aden have been published on the communities' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward COVID-19 prevention to date. To understand adherence to pandemic prevention measures in contexts with fragile health systems, this study investigated KAP of Yemeni participants toward the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We conducted face-to-face semi-structured questionnaires among 400 eligible participants whom were identified for participation in this study through systematic household sampling from eight districts in Aden, Yemen. Eligible participants were Yemeni community members who were ≥ 18 years, living for more than 10 years in Yemen, and were willing to voluntarily participate in the study. The questionnaire included questions surrounding the participants' COVID-19 knowledge (e.g., awareness of spread and prevention), attitudes (e.g., willingness to accept the vaccine or other prevention measures), and prevention practices during the pandemic (e.g., mask wearing, social distancing, vaccine uptake). Total KAP scores were calculated. Univariate and bivariate statistical analyses were conducted using STATA 13 software. Results From January to May 2021 we conducted 400 questionnaires with Yemeni community members. The average age was 41.5 ± 14.5 years (range 18-86 years). The results demonstrated that the participants in this study had an intermediate knowledge (53%) and fair attitude (58%) scores. However, participants reported very poor COVID-19 prevention practices- with only 11% demonstrating these practices. Only 25% (100/400) practiced social distancing, 25% (98/400) wore a mask, and only 6% (27/400) of participants accepted (at least one dose of) the COVID-19 vaccine. Factors associated with increased knowledge were being male, married, and surprisingly those having a primary and middle school education levels (p < 0.05). Also participants who were diagnosed with COVID-19 or had a family member diagnosed with COVID-19 (vs. those not diagnosed OR = 2.08, 95% CI 1.07-3.78, p < 0.05) were more likely to know that the vaccine protects against severe COVID-19 infection and were more likely to apply good practices such as accepting the vaccine (OR = 2.65, 95% CI 1.17-6.00, p < 0.05) compared to those who were not. Conclusion These findings raise awareness for the need of community-oriented education programs for COVID-19 which considers associated factors to improve the level of public knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola El Hajj Hassan
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Maureen McGowan
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maureen Dar Iang
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Huda Omer Basaleem
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Aden, Aden, Yemen
| | | | - Dalia Hyzam
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Aden, Aden, Yemen
| | - Albrecht Jahn
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fekri Dureab
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Research for International Assistance, Akkon Hochschule, Berlin, Germany
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Swed S, Almoshantaf MB, Ezzdean W, Patwary MM, Shoib S. Syria: A conflict-torn country and the COVID-19 conundrum. Int J Surg 2023; 109:2129-2130. [PMID: 36974684 PMCID: PMC10389363 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000000118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarya Swed
- Faculty of Medicine, Aleppo University, Aleppo
| | | | | | - Muhammad M. Patwary
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Sheikh Shoib
- Directorate of Health Services, JLNM Hospital, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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Kawuki J, Chen S, Fang Y, Liang X, Chan PSF, Wang Z. COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance, Attitude and Perception among Slum and Underserved Communities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:886. [PMID: 37242990 PMCID: PMC10222524 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review summarises the literature on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, including acceptance, uptake, hesitancy, attitude and perceptions among slum and underserved communities. Relevant studies were searched from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, following a pre-registered protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42022355101) and PRISMA guidelines. We extracted data, used random-effects models to combine the vaccine acceptance, hesitancy and uptake rates categorically, and performed meta-regression by R software (version 4.2.1). Twenty-four studies with 30,323 participants met the inclusion criteria. The overall prevalence was 58% (95% CI: 49-67%) for vaccine acceptance, 23% (95% CI: 13-39%) for uptake and 29% (95% CI: 18-43%) for hesitancy. Acceptance and uptake were positively associated with various sociodemographic factors, including older age, higher education level, male gender, ethnicity/race (e.g., Whites vs African Americans), more knowledge and a higher level of awareness of vaccines, but some studies reported inconsistent results. Safety and efficacy concerns, low-risk perception, long distance to vaccination centres and unfavourable vaccination schedules were prominent reasons for hesitancy. Moreover, varying levels of attitudes and perceptions regarding COVID-19 vaccination were reported with existing misconceptions and negative beliefs, and these were strong predictors of vaccination. Infodemic management and continuous vaccine education are needed to address existing misconceptions and negative beliefs, and this should target young, less-educated women and ethnic minorities. Considering mobile vaccination units to vaccinate people at home or workplaces would be a useful strategy in addressing access barriers and increasing vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kawuki
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of Health and Physical Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xue Liang
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Paul Shing-fong Chan
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zixin Wang
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Kawuki J, Nambooze J, Chan PSF, Chen S, Liang X, Mo PKH, Wang Z. Differential COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake and Associated Factors among the Slum and Estate Communities in Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Population-Based Survey. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:440. [PMID: 36851317 PMCID: PMC9965522 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination against COVID-19 remains one of the ultimate solutions to the ongoing pandemic. This study examined and compared the completion of primary COVID-19 vaccination series and associated factors in the slum and estate communities of Uganda. This was a cross-sectional survey conducted among 1025 slum and estate residents. Logistic regression models were fitted. Of the 1025 participants, 511 were slum residents and 514 were estate residents. Completion of COVID-19 vaccination was 43.8% in the slum community and 39.9% in the estate community (p = 0.03). Having more knowledge about COVID-19 was positively associated with completing COVID-19 vaccination in both communities. Perceived benefits and cues to action also had a positive association, but only among the slum residents. However, perceiving people infected with COVID-19 as having a high death rate, perceived barriers such as serious side effects and long distances, and depressive symptoms had negative associations with vaccine uptake among the slum community, but not in the estate community. Addressing barriers to vaccination, strengthening and utilizing the various cues to action, engagement of religious and cultural leaders, and continued community education and sensitization tailored to the needs of each community are potentially vital strategies in raising vaccination rates. Consideration of socioeconomic impact-alleviation strategies, especially among the urban poor, would also be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kawuki
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Joweria Nambooze
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Kyambogo University, Kyambogo, Kampala P.O. Box 1, Uganda
| | - Paul Shing-fong Chan
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xue Liang
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Phoenix K. H. Mo
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zixin Wang
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Siddiqui A, Priya, Adnan A, Abbas S, Qamar K, Islam Z, Rahmat ZS, Essar MY, Farahat RA. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in conflict zones: A review of current literature. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1006271. [PMID: 36530665 PMCID: PMC9757058 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1006271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vaccine hesitancy (VH) is prevalent in conflict zones due to a lack of essential resources and knowledge, thereby escalating the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) cases in these territories. This has resulted in a higher incidence of cases from exposure to a single COVID-19 positive case and further burdens the health care system of conflict zones which are already on the brink of collapsing. Aim This narrative review aims to determine VH to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine in five conflict zones that include Somalia, Yemen, Palestine, Syria, and Afghanistan. Methodology A Boolean search was carried out in MEDLINE-PubMed from inception till 6 June 2022. The search was performed by using the following keywords: "(SARS-CoV-2 OR covid OR covid 19) AND (vaccine hesitancy OR covid vaccine acceptance OR intention to vaccinate) AND (Syria OR Yemen OR Palestine OR Afghanistan OR Somalia"). The full text of all relevant articles in English along with their supplementary material was extracted. Results All the included studies reported at least 30% or more increase in vaccine hesitancy among conflict settings. VH was mostly due to a lack of available resources, lack of appropriate knowledge, and believing misleading rumors about the vaccine. Discussion Considering the massive amount of reluctance among people residing in conflict zones, the need to take effective measures against VH is undoubtedly apparent. This can be accomplished by carrying out mass vaccinations by the governments and proper health education through raising the public awareness regarding vaccines, thereby eliminating rumors that exacerbate the fear of adverse effects. Conclusion The approach described in this article to combat VH can be implemented to increase vaccination rates and significantly alleviate R0 across the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Siddiqui
- Department of Medicine, Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Priya
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Alishba Adnan
- Department of Medicine, Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Samina Abbas
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Khulud Qamar
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zarmina Islam
- Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Mohammad Yasir Essar
- Afghanistan National Charity Organization for Special Diseases, Kabul, Afghanistan,Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, Afghanistan,*Correspondence: Mohammad Yasir Essar
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Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance among Dental Professionals: A Multi-Country Survey. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10101614. [PMID: 36298480 PMCID: PMC9610472 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10101614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study sought to investigate the acceptance rate and associated factors of COVID-19 vaccines among dentists and dental students in seven countries. Material and Methods: A structured questionnaire prepared and guided by the report of the SAGE Working Group on Vaccine Hesitancy was distributed among groups of dentists and dental students in seven countries across four continents. Results: A total of 1527 subjects (850 dentists and 677 dental students) participated in this survey. Although 72.5% of the respondents reported their intention to accept COVID-19 vaccines (dentists: 74.4%, dental students: 70.2%), there was a significant difference in agreement between dentists/dental students across countries; generally, respondents in upper-middle-, and high-income countries (UM-HICs) showed significantly higher acceptance rates compared to those in low- and lower-middle income countries (L-LMICs). Potential predictors of higher vaccine acceptance included being a dentist, being free of comorbidity, being well-informed about COVID-19 vaccines, having better knowledge about COVID-19 complications, having anxiety about COVID-19 infection, having no concerns about the side effects of the produced vaccines and being a resident of an UM-HIC. Conclusion: The results of our survey indicate a relatively good acceptance rate of COVID-19 among the surveyed dentists and dental students. However, dentists and dental students in L-LMICs showed significantly lower vaccine acceptance rates and trust in COVID-19 vaccines compared to their counterparts in UM-HICs. Our results provide important information to policymakers, highlighting the need for implementation of country-specific vaccine promotion strategies, with special focus on L-LMICs.
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Alshakka M, Hatem NAH, Badullah W, Alsakaf R, Rageh A, Yousef SA, Mohamed Ibrahim MI. Detection of Short-Term Side Effects of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Vaccine: A Cross-Sectional Study in a War-Torn Country. Pragmat Obs Res 2022; 13:85-91. [PMID: 36046709 PMCID: PMC9423103 DOI: 10.2147/por.s381836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The chAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine is the first COVID-19 vaccine available in Yemen. Hence, this local-based study was used to identify the type and frequency of short-term side effects following 48 hours of the first shot of the vaccine. Methods A cross-section of vaccinated participants in Aden were surveyed by telephone. Descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis. Results A total of 500 participants were included through convenient sampling. 27% of them were health care providers. Nearly 70% of the respondent experienced side effects. The top three side effects reported were fever (n=276, 55.2%), myalgia (n=270, 54%) and fatigue (n=247, 49.4%). Generally, most participants stated that they experienced the side effects after the first 24 hours of vaccination. Conclusion Side effects that participants experienced were not different from the literature, indicating a safe profile for the vaccine. Further studies are needed to identify the side effects after the second and third dose of the vaccine. In addition, more studies are required to assess the efficacy of the existing vaccines against new variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Alshakka
- Section of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aden University, Aden, Yemen
| | - Najmaddin A H Hatem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Hodeidah University, Alhodeidah, Yemen
| | - Wafa Badullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aden University, Aden, Yemen
| | - Rabab Alsakaf
- Department of Post-Marketing Surveillance, National Pharmacovigilance Center, Supreme Board of Drugs and Medical Appliances, Aden, Yemen
| | - Ali Rageh
- Section of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aden University, Aden, Yemen
| | - Seena Abdulla Yousef
- Department of Community Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Aden University, Aden, Yemen
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Kabagenyi A, Wasswa R, Nannyonga BK, Nyachwo EB, Kagirita A, Nabirye J, Atuhaire L, Waiswa P. Factors Associated with COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Uganda: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Survey. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:6837-6847. [PMID: 36061966 PMCID: PMC9432568 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s372386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Vaccination toward coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been recommended and adopted as one of the measures of reducing the spread of this novel disease worldwide. Despite this, vaccine uptake among the Ugandan population has been low with reasons surrounding this being unknown. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Uganda. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 1042 adults in the districts of Mukono, Kiboga, Kumi, Soroti, Gulu, Amuru, Mbarara and Sheema from June to November 2021. Data were analyzed using STATA v.15. Barriers to vaccination were analyzed descriptively, while a binary logistic regression model was used to establish the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Results Overall, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was 58.6% (611). Respondents from urban areas and those in the eastern or northern region had increased odds of vaccine hesitancy. Further, higher education level and having knowledge on how COVID-19 is transmitted significantly reduced the odds of vaccine hesitancy. The study also noted individual perception such as COVID-19 kills only people with underlying medical conditions, as well as limited awareness on vaccine types or vaccination areas as the main reasons to vaccine hesitancy. Relatedly, other misconceptions like the ability of the vaccine to cause infertility, or spreading the virus into the body, and acknowledgment of alcohol as a possible cure were other reasons for vaccine hesitancy. Conclusion The proportion of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is still high among the population with this varying across regions. This is driven by low education level and limited awareness on the vaccination as well as perceived myths and misconceptions. The study recommends mass sensitization of the population on the benefits of vaccination using various channels as well as rolling out community-based outreach vaccination campaigns across the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen Kabagenyi
- Department of Population Studies, School of Statistics & Planning, College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Correspondence: Allen Kabagenyi, Department of Population Studies, School of Statistics & Planning, College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda, Email
| | - Ronald Wasswa
- Department of Statistical Methods and Actuarial Science, School of Statistics & Planning, College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Betty K Nannyonga
- Department of Mathematics, School of Natural Science, College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Evelyne B Nyachwo
- Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Atek Kagirita
- Department of National Disease Control, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nabirye
- Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Leonard Atuhaire
- Department of Planning and Applied Statistics, School of Statistics & Planning, College of Business and Management Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Waiswa
- Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Noushad M, Nassani MZ, Al-Awar MS, Al-Saqqaf IS, Mohammed SOA, Samran A, Yaroko AA, Barakat A, Elmi OS, Alsalhani AB, Talic YF, Rastam S. COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Associated With Vaccine Inequity Among Healthcare Workers in a Low-Income Fragile Nation. Front Public Health 2022; 10:914943. [PMID: 35899168 PMCID: PMC9309570 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.914943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesPreventing severe disease and acquiring population immunity to COVID-19 requires global immunization coverage through mass vaccination. While high-income countries are battling vaccine hesitancy, low-income and fragile nations are facing the double dilemma of vaccine hesitancy and lack of access to vaccines. There is inadequate information on any correlation between vaccine hesitancy and access to vaccines. Our study in a low-income nation aimed to fill this gap.MethodsIn the backdrop of a severe shortage of COVID-19 vaccines in Yemen, a low-income fragile nation, we conducted a nation-wide cross-sectional survey among its healthcare workers (HCWs), between 6 July and 10 August 2021. We evaluated factors influencing agreement to accept a COVID-19 vaccine and any potential correlation between vaccine acceptance and lack of access to vaccines.ResultsOverall, 61.7% (n = 975) of the 1,581 HCWs agreed to accept a COVID-19 vaccine. Only 45.4% of the participants agreed to have access to a COVID-19 vaccine, with no sex dependent variations. Although several determinants of vaccine acceptance were identified, including, having a systemic disease, following the updates about COVID-19 vaccines, complying with preventive guidelines, having greater anxiety about contracting COVID-19, previous infection with COVID-19, believing COVID-19 to be a severe disease, and lower concern about the side effects of COVID-19, the strongest was access to vaccines (OR: 3.18; 95% CI: 2.5–4.03; p-value: 0.001).ConclusionThe immediate and more dangerous threat in Yemen toward achieving population immunity is the severe shortage and lack of access to vaccines, rather than vaccine hesitancy, meaning, improving access to vaccines could lead to greater acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Noushad
- College of Dentistry, Dar Al Uloom University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Mohammed Noushad ;
| | | | - Mohammed Sadeg Al-Awar
- Faculty of Applied Science, Amran University, Amran, Yemen
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Medical Science, Al-Razi University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | | | | | - Abdulaziz Samran
- College of Dentistry, Dar Al Uloom University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Ango Yaroko
- Otolaryngology Department, Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Ali Barakat
- College of Dentistry, Dar Al Uloom University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Salad Elmi
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Anas B. Alsalhani
- Vision College of Dentistry and Nursing, Vision Colleges, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Samer Rastam
- Vision College of Medicine, Vision Colleges, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Wu F, Yuan Y, Deng Z, Yin D, Shen Q, Zeng J, Xie Y, Xu M, Yang M, Jiang S, Zhang C, Lu H, Sun C. Acceptance of COVID-19 Booster Vaccination Based on the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT): A Cross-Sectional Study in China. J Med Virol 2022; 94:4115-4124. [PMID: 35506329 PMCID: PMC9348068 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The promotion of the booster shots against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection is an open issue to be discussed. Little is known about the public intention and the influencing factors regarding the booster vaccine. A cross‐sectional survey in Chinese adults was conducted using an online questionnaire, which designed on the basis of protection motivation theory (PMT) scale and vaccine hesitancy scale (VHS). Hierarchical multiple regression was used to compare the fitness of the PMT scale and VHS for predicting booster vaccination intention. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the factors associated with the acceptance. Six thousand three hundred twenty‐one (76.8%) of participants were willing to take the booster shot. However, the rest of the participants (23.2%) were still hesitant to take the booster vaccine. The PMT scale was more powerful than the VHS in explaining the vaccination intention. Participants with high perceived severity (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.69) and response cost (aOR = 0.47) were less willing to take the booster shots, but participants with high perceived susceptibility (aOR = 1.19), response efficacy (aOR = 2.13), and self‐efficacy (aOR = 3.33) were more willing to take the booster shots. In summary, interventions based on PMT can provide guidance to ensure the acceptance of the booster vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Wu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yue Yuan
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Zhaomin Deng
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Di Yin
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Qiufeng Shen
- Huadu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, 510800, China
| | - Jiehua Zeng
- Recheng Community Health Service Station of Huadu District Huashan Town Health Center, Guangzhou, 510880, China
| | - Yanhong Xie
- Huadu Vaccination Clinic of Tanbu Town Central Health Center, Guangzhou, 510820, China
| | - Meifen Xu
- Shiling Town synthetic community health service center of Huadu District, Guangzhou, 510800, China
| | - Meiyi Yang
- Jianshebei Community Health Service center of Huadu District, Guangzhou, 510800, China
| | - Shiqiang Jiang
- Nanshan District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Chunhuan Zhang
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, 510440, China
| | - Huixi Lu
- Huadu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, 510800, China
| | - Caijun Sun
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
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