Acceptability of a COVID-19 Vaccine Among Healthcare Workers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Determinants of Intention to Uptake COVID-19 Vaccination Among Saudi Adults: Application of the Health Belief Model

Introduction

The pandemic caused by COVID-19 has had a profound effect on global health. Due to its potential impact on the efficacy of pandemic control measures, vaccine hesitancy (VH) in relation to COVID-19 has emerged as a significant concern. The attainment of herd immunity is contingent on the rate of COVID-19 vaccine adoption. Despite this, there have been reports of reluctance toward the COVID-19 vaccine. This study seeks to investigate the effect of constructs that influence adults' intentions to receive COVID-19 vaccination using the Health Belief Model (HBM).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted by recruiting Saudi Arabian adults as participants. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the proposed HBM model was evaluated. A total of 505 individuals replied to the survey.

Results

The suggested HBM model explained 68% of the variation in intention to get COVID-19 immunization. I found all HBM variables namely perceived susceptibility, greater levels of perceived behavioral control, severity, benefits, and barriers to be significant predictors of vaccination intentions. Among demographic variables, only married status had a significant relationship with the intention to obtain COVID-19 immunization.

Discussion

The findings of this study indicate that the HBM can be utilized effectively to obtain insight into the factors that influence COVID-19 prevention measure adherence. Understanding and recognizing individuals' perceived health beliefs and practices is essential for the development of effective COVID-19 intervention strategies.

Evaluation of willingness to obtain of Covid 19 vaccine in patients with multiple sclerosis

INTRODUCTION

Assessing vaccine willingness and understanding sources of vaccine hesitancy in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) helps healthcare providers approach patients more effectively while respecting their autonomy to encourage coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study using a researcher-made checklist was conducted on MS patients referred to Neshat Clinic of Hamadan during the years 2020-2021. The checklist contained questions about demographic information, MS phenotype, duration of illness, expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score, and COVID-19 vaccination status. The expanded disability status scale (EDSS) is the most commonly used instrument for measuring disability in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The EDSS scale ranges from 0 to 10 in increments of 0.5 units, denoting advanced points of disability.

RESULTS

Based on the results, 20 individuals (10%) were in the vaccine non-acceptance group, while 181 individuals (90%) were in the vaccine acceptance group. A significant number of relapsing and remitting (RR) type MS patients (90.7%) and all primary progressive (PP) type MS patients (100%) accepted the vaccine. In comparison, vaccine non-acceptance in the secondary progressive (SP) group was relatively higher (20.7%) compared to other types of MS, and this difference was significant (P < 0.05). Additionally, there was a statistically significant relationship between the history of COVID-19 and vaccine acceptance (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The study results demonstrated a high rate of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among MS patients. MS phenotype, previous infection experiences, and other influences allow for COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among MS patients. This information can improve health programs and communication strategies for COVID-19 and future possible infectious disease vaccination in individuals with MS.

Attitudes and practices to adult vaccination among physicians before and after COVID-19 pandemic in the United Arab Emirates

Introduction

Vaccination remains underutilised worldwide with low vaccine uptake rates across the board with many adults remaining unprotected. Across the Arab world, attitudes towards vaccines vary but high rates of vaccine hesitancy have been found. This study aims to explore the adult vaccination attitudes and practices by physicians in the UAE, both before and after the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccines.

Methodology

This cross-sectional, descriptive study used convenience and snowball sampling to collect comprehensive data from UAE physicians. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed in two stages: the first (pre-COVID-19 vaccines) between the months of June and October 2020 and the second between the months of November 2022 and March 2023.

Results

1000 responses, 500 from each time period, were collected. Nearly a third were family physicians or internists with more than 70% of the physicians working in governmental hospitals. 95% agreed that vaccines are safe in both cohorts but 74.4% reported not having enough time to advise about vaccines. 80.8% of physicians in the 2022 cohort reported safety concerns as the most common reason for patients to refuse vaccines. The most recommended vaccines were influenza (68.6%), Hepatitis B (66.0%) and HPV (61.4%), with pneumococcal coming in close at 57.8%. Family medicine physicians showed the highest utilisation of preventive practices across both cohorts. Nearly half of all family medicine physicians did not regularly evaluate both the influenza and general immunisation status of their patients. 54.6% of physicians reported having patients with VPDs in the last five years (not including COVID-19) in 2022.

Conclusion

Physicians have overly positive attitudes, but their practices reflect a more superficial appreciation of vaccines and lack of initiative. Physicians need to adopt a pro-vaccine stance, armed with the proper tools and the right mentality and beliefs.

Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake and hesitancy among healthcare workers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Vaccination is a critical intervention to reduce morbidity and mortality and limit strain on health systems caused by COVID-19. The slow pace of COVID-19 vaccination uptake observed in some settings raises concerns about COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. The Democratic Republic of the Congo experienced logistical challenges and low uptake at the start of vaccine distribution, leading to one of the lowest overall COVID-19 vaccine coverage rates in the world in 2021. This study assessed the magnitude and associated factors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among healthcare workers (HCWs) in seven provinces in DRC. We implemented a cross-sectional Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) questionnaire targeting HCWs, administered by trained data collectors in Haut-Katanga, Kasaï Orientale, Kinshasa, Kongo Centrale, Lualaba, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces. Data were summarized and statistical tests were performed to assess factors associated with vaccine uptake. HCWs across the seven provinces completed the questionnaire (N = 5,102), of whom 46.3% had received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Older age, being married, being a medical doctor, being a rural resident, and having access to or having previously worked in a COVID-19 vaccination site were all strongly associated with vaccination uptake. Vaccinated individuals most frequently cited protection of themselves, their families, and their communities as motivations for being vaccinated, whereas unvaccinated individuals were most concerned about safety, effectiveness, and risk of severe side effects. The findings suggest an opinion divide between vaccine-willing and vaccine-hesitant HCWs. A multidimensional approach may be needed to increase the acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine for HCWs. Future vaccine campaign messaging could center around the positive impact of vaccination on protecting friends, family, and the community, and also emphasize the safety and very low risk of adverse effects. These types of messages may further be useful when planning future immunization campaigns with new vaccines.

Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers in Cameroon and Nigeria: a web-based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the determinants of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Cameroon and Nigeria.

METHODS

This analytic cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2021, including consenting HCWs aged ≥18 y identified using snowball sampling. Vaccine hesitancy was defined as indecisiveness or unwillingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Multilevel logistic regression yielded adjusted ORs (aORs) for vaccine hesitancy.

RESULTS

We included a total of 598 (about 60% women) participants. Little or no trust in the approved COVID-19 vaccines (aOR=2.28, 95% CI 1.24 to 4.20), lower perception of the importance of the vaccine on their personal health (5.26, 2.38 to 11.6), greater concerns about vaccine-related adverse effects (3.45, 1.83 to 6.47) and uncertainty about colleagues' acceptability of the vaccine (2.98, 1.62 to 5.48) were associated with higher odds of vaccine hesitancy. In addition, participants with chronic disease (aOR=0.34, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.97) and higher levels of concerns about getting COVID-19 (0.40, 0.18 to 0.87) were less likely to be hesitant to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among HCWs in this study was high and broadly determined by the perceived risk of COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines on personal health, mistrust in COVID-19 vaccines and uncertainty about colleagues' vaccine acceptability.

Analysis of ethical considerations of COVID‑19 vaccination: lessons for future

BACKGROUND

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, different countries sought to manufacture and supply effective vaccines to control the disease and prevent and protect public health in society. The implementation of vaccination has created many ethical dilemmas for humans, which must be recognized and resolved. Therefore, the present study was conducted to analyze the ethical considerations in vaccination against COVID-19 from the perspective of service providers.

METHODS

The present qualitative research was conducted in 2022 in the north of Iran. The participants included 23 health workers with at least five years of work experience and members of the COVID-19 vaccination team. The data were initially collected through systematic semi-structured interviews, then snowball sampling and finally continued until data saturation. The next steps were transcription of interviews, identification of meaning units, coding, categorization based on similarity and symmetry, extraction of themes and the analysis of themes through content analysis.

RESULTS

The analysis of participants' experiences led to the extraction of five main categories of themes and fifteen sub-categories of the ethical considerations of COVID-19 vaccination. Safe and standard vaccine production, vaccine supply, fairness, respect for autonomy, and accountability were the main categories. The subcategories included compliance with scientific and ethical procedures, effectiveness and profitability of vaccine, absence of severe adverse effects, allocation of resources for vaccine supply, vaccine availability, diversity and comprehensiveness of alternative vaccines, vaccination prioritization, prioritization of the vulnerable populations of society, autonomy of patient (equal rights), autonomy of community, autonomy of service providers, reporting correct information, reporting vaccine side effects, public trust and acceptance.

CONCLUSION

The health system managers should be adequately prepared to solve the ethical problems posed by COVID-19 vaccination. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid haste in vaccination and pay more attention to vaccination safety standards, provide sufficient resources for a comprehensive vaccine supply, pay close attention to collective interests versus individual interests, and meet community needs.

Evaluation of the Most Visible Symptoms Associated with COVID-19 Vaccines Among the Residents of Makkah, Saudi Arabia: An Observational, Cross-Sectional Study

Background

This research evaluated the most visible symptoms associated with coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines among residents in Makkah of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 among a representative sample of residents receiving COVID-19 vaccination at King Abdullah Medical City, ‏Al Ukayshiyyah, and Umm Al-Qura University vaccination centers. A total of 805 participants selected by a census sampling method were included. Data regarding characteristics, medical history, and post-vaccination symptoms were obtained with an interview-based questionnaire.

Results

The participants' mean age was 25.20 ± 15.5 years. Of them, 61.7% and 38.3% received one and two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, respectively. 2.2% have an allergic reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine. 25.3% were infected with COVID-19, 23% were infected before the first dose, and only 1.6% were infected after the first dose. Significant statistical associations were found between males and females in smoking status, age, body mass index, history of diabetes mellitus, and types of COVID-19 vaccines (P-value < 0.05). After adjustment for confounding variables, male participants had lower odds of having swelling, redness, or pain at the injection site, muscle or joint pain, headache, dizziness, and nausea compared to female participants [OR = 0.596, 95% CI = (0.388-0.916)], [OR = 0.272, 95% CI = (0.149-0.495)], [OR = 0.529, 95% CI = (0.338-0.828)], [OR = 0.263, 95% CI = (0.125-0.554)], and [OR = 0.145, 95% CI = (0.31-0.679), P < 0.05 for all], respectively.

Conclusion

The female participants may have a higher risk of post-COVID-19 vaccination symptoms than males among Makkah residents of Saudi Arabia.

Hesitancy toward vaccination against COVID-19: A scoping review of prevalence and associated factors in the Arab world

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.

Uptake of the COVID-19 Vaccination and Associated Factors Among Health Care Providers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Background

The COVID-19 vaccine is intended to provide acquired immunity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). As a result, 12 billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccination have been given globally as of August 1, 2022. Due to occupational exposure, health professionals obtained priority for COVID-19 vaccination. However, despite the availability of COVID-19 vaccines in countries, there is a discrepancy in the uptake of vaccine among different populations including Health-Care Providers.

Objective

Assessments of the factors associated with uptake of COVID-19 vaccination among health-care providers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 2022.

Methods

From June 10 to July 10, 2022, a facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, involving 473 health-care professionals, used descriptive statistics to summarize the participant's characteristics, and multivariable logistic regression to analyze factors affecting COVID-19 vaccination uptake. P-value <0.05 was used to determine the level of significance.

Results

The response rate of the participants was 94.2%. The uptake rate of COVID-19 vaccine among health-care providers was 359 (75.8%). Vaccine uptake was positively associated with higher perceived concerns regarding COVID-19 [AOR = 7.45, (4.041-13.754)], higher monthly income, [AOR: 2.623 (1.398 -4.923)] compared those who earned lower, being married [AOR: 2.114, (1.068-4.181)] and being advanced age (36-45) years old [AOR =0.486 (0.258-0.916)] compared to 18-26 years old. However, being female professional reduced the odds of vaccine uptake [AOR = 0.486 (CI; 0.258-0.916)] in contrast of their counterpart.

Conclusion

The uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among health professionals is relatively higher than in earlier reports. However, this was not yet sufficient for the level required to achieve herd immunity. Hence, the Ministry of health should work in collaboration to address concerns about the safety and effectiveness of COVI D-19 vaccine to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Moreover, Health professionals, social media, regular media outlet should strengthen health education on concerns of covid-19 infection.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Vaccination Among Parents in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia

Background Vaccine misconception plays an important role in delaying vaccination for children, which can lead to serious health problems. Assessing the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) and potential associated factors among Saudi parents of preschool and school-age children and adolescents for all types of vaccines would help increase vaccine coverage. Methodology This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was performed among parents in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The study enrolled all Saudi parents visiting primary healthcare centers (PHC) in Jeddah with their children aged 3-18 years old. A self-administered questionnaire in Arabic was used to assess KAP. Descriptive statistics were performed, and the chi-square test was used to assess the association between KAP and sociodemographic factors with significance set at p-values <0.05. Results Out of 301 participants, 68.1% were mothers, and 55.8% of children were female. The largest percentage (81.7%) of the parents were aged between 31 and 50 years old. Although 94.4% of the parents agreed or strongly agreed that childhood vaccines protect their children from serious diseases, 26.6% of parents agreed or strongly agreed that vaccines can potentially cause autism, and 18.6% believed they could lead to learning difficulties. Most parents (67.4%) were in favor of vaccination, while others were hesitant about vaccinating their children and believed in alternative methods of disease prevention. About one-third knew other parents who did not vaccinate their children for religious, ideological, or cultural reasons. Sociodemographic factors such as gender (p = 0.042), educational level (p = 0.017), nationality (p = 0.001), and first child (p = 0.013) had some influence on parents' beliefs and knowledge about vaccination, while the number of children (child order) (p = 0.022) and parents' education level were associated with hesitancy (p = 0.028). Conclusions These findings show that most parents had good KAP toward vaccination, influenced by sociodemographic factors. However, there is a need to address vaccination hesitancy by acting on identified contributing factors.

Hesitancy towards the COVID-19 vaccine among health care practitioners in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

 The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a major public health crisis worldwide. In less than 12 months since the World Health Organization declared the outbreak, several different COVID-19 vaccines have been approved and deployed mostly in developed countries since January 2021. However, hesitancy to accept the newly developed vaccines is a well-known public health challenge that needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to measure willingness and hesitancy toward COVID-19 vaccines among health care practitioners' (HCPs) in Saudi Arabia.   Methods: A cross-sectional study using an online self-reported survey was conducted among HCPs in Saudi Arabia between April 4th to April 25th 2021 using snowball sampling. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify the possible factors affecting HCPs' willingness and hesitancy to receive COVID-19 vaccines.   Results: Out of 776 participants who started the survey, 505 (65%) completed it and were included in the results. Among all HCPs, 47 (9.3%) either said "no" to receive the vaccine [20 (4%)] or were hesitant to receive it [27 (5.3%)]. Of the total number of the HCPs, 376 (74.5%) already received the COVID-19 vaccine, and 48 (9.50%) were registered to receive it. The main reason of agreement to receive the COVID-19 vaccine was "wanting to protect self and others from getting the infection" (24%).   Conclusion: Our findings have shown that hesitancy toward receiving COVID-19 vaccines among HCPs in Saudi Arabia is limited and therefore may not be a serious issue. The outcomes of this study may help to understand factors that lead to vaccine hesitancy in Saudi Arabia and help public health authorities to design targeted health education interventions aiming to increase uptake of these vaccines.

COVID-19 Vaccine Knowledge and Attitude Among Healthcare Workers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Background On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) proclaimed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic. COVID-19 can result in asymptomatic infection, severe pneumonia, and death. In this study, healthcare workers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, were asked to reflect on their knowledge of and attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine. Methods Online anonymous polling of healthcare professionals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was done. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the respondents' demographic information and knowledge of and attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine were gathered through a questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Results The knowledge of the responders for each vaccine is as follows: Pfizer-BioNTech, 96.1%; AstraZeneca-Oxford, 66.1%; Moderna, 56.9%; and Johnson & Johnson's Janssen, 18.2%. A small percentage of responders (5.7%) believe that COVID-19 vaccination may alter their DNA, while 70% believe it can prevent them from getting sick with COVID-19 infection. Half of the responders had a wrong opinion of COVID-19 vaccinations. Conclusion The findings imply that improving healthcare workers' knowledge of vaccines and changing attitudes toward vaccination may increase vaccine acceptability. This would involve addressing the respondents' concerns about vaccine side effects and their general mistrust of vaccine benefits.

Exploring interrelationships of COVID-19 dimensions in Saudi Arabia: a systematic review

Background

COVID-19 affected the world threatening medical, social, economic and community dimensions. Along with the other countries of the world, Saudi Arabia also witnessed critical emergencies leading to serious disaster due mainly to the overcrowding at certain urban residential localities. Nevertheless, the situation handled meticulously not only with measures and combating strategies but also with documentations and researches to build sustainable confrontation systems and lateral programs.

Main body of abstract

This attempt is a consolidation of the academic efforts on COVID-19 in the country aiming to contribute to the knowledge base aiding to future planning on preparedness. An online survey of published academic research from peer reviewed journals were carried out during August-December 2022, using COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia as search criteria. Many areas of concern are assessed in the context which are classified into spread and burden, patient statistics, symptoms and other clinical dimensions, vaccinations and vaccine acceptance/hesitance, psychosocial impact, impact on education, impact on health staff, impact on migration, impact on nutrition, and control measures adopted.

Short conclusions

A consolidation of these research findings explains the scientific academic community alertness in raising up to the emergency pandemic situation, which facilitated strategy and policy formulations by the Government ministries and other governing bodies. These researches are linked to stagewise programmatic efforts to curtail the epidemic as a mode of accomplishments.

The prevalence and determinants of SARS-CoV-2 infections among healthcare workers, results of a cross-sectional study in the Silesian Voivodeship

OBJECTIVES

A significant proportion of healthcare workers (HCWs) had been infected with SARS-CoV-2, which complicated the organization of patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the exact scale of infection prevalence among the group of HCWs is not known, therefore this study aimed to assess the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs in the Silesian voivodeship, Poland, and to define its determinants.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The cross-sectional study was conducted in 2 multidisciplinary hospitals in the Silesian voivodeship during the period October 2021-February 2022. The standardized WHO questionnaire Surveillance protocol for SARS-CoV-2 infection among health workers was completed by 242 HCWs. To assess the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its determinants, such as personal, occupational, and work environment-related conditions and preventive behaviors, the collected data were subjected to statistical analysis. For this purpose, descriptive and analytical statistics (significance of differences in χ2 test) were used.

RESULTS

Almost half (42.6%) of subjects were infected with coronavirus, most frequently care assistants (57.1%) and paramedics (50%). People suffering from chronic diseases were infected significantly more often (p < 0.001). The majority of the infected HCWs declared previous contact with COVID-19 patients (56.3%). Unfortunately, 10.3% of respondents refused to be vaccinated against COVID-19, most often care assistants (38.1%) and nurses (10.6%). The determinants such as sex, age, occupation, place of work (ward), participation in occupational safety and health training, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), or preventive behaviors did not significantly affect the risk of infection (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Even though the PPE was used and the percentage of fully vaccinated HCWs against COVID-19 was high (89.7%), the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 infected HCWs remains high at 42.6% (95% CI: 40.7-44.5%). The main determinants of SARS-CoV-2 infection risk among HCWs were previous contact with infected individuals and the presence of chronic disease. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2023;36(2):201-13.

COVID-19 Vaccine Perceptions among Ebola-Affected Communities in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 2021

Populations affected by humanitarian crises and emerging infectious disease outbreaks may have unique concerns and experiences that influence their perceptions toward vaccines. In March 2021, we conducted a survey to examine the perceptions toward COVID-19 vaccines and identify the factors associated with vaccine intention among 631 community members (CMs) and 438 healthcare workers (HCWs) affected by the 2018-2020 Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. A multivariable logistic regression was used to identify correlates of vaccine intention. Most HCWs (81.7%) and 53.6% of CMs felt at risk of contracting COVID-19; however, vaccine intention was low (27.6% CMs; 39.7% HCWs). In both groups, the perceived risk of contracting COVID-19, general vaccine confidence, and male sex were associated with the intention to get vaccinated, with security concerns preventing vaccine access being negatively associated. Among CMs, getting the Ebola vaccine was associated with the intention to get vaccinated (RR 1.43, 95% CI 1.05-1.94). Among HCWs, concerns about new vaccines' safety and side effects (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.57-0.91), religion's influence on health decisions (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.34-0.61), security concerns (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.37-0.74), and governmental distrust (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.35-0.70) were negatively associated with vaccine perceptions. Enhanced community engagement and communication that address this population's concerns could help improve vaccine perceptions and vaccination decisions. These findings could facilitate the success of vaccine campaigns in North Kivu and similar settings.

Healthcare Workers' Attitudes towards Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 vaccine mandates are considered a controversial public health policy both in public debate and among healthcare workers (HCWs). Thus, the objective of this systematic review is to give a deep insight into HCWs' views and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination mandates amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science) was conducted between July 2022 and November 2022. Original quantitative studies that addressed the attitudes of HCWs regarding COVID-19 vaccine mandates were considered eligible for this systematic review. All the included studies (n = 57) were critically appraised and assessed for risk of systematic bias. Meta-analyses were performed, providing a pooled estimate of HCWs' acceptance towards COVID-19 vaccine mandates for: 1. HCWs and 2. the general population.

RESULTS

In total, 64% (95% CI: 55%, 72%) of HCWs favored COVID-19 vaccine mandates for HCWs, while 50% (95% CI: 38%, 61%) supported mandating COVID-19 vaccines for the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that mandatory vaccination against COVID-19 is a highly controversial issue among HCWs. The present study provides stakeholders and policy makers with useful evidence related to the compulsory or non-compulsory nature of COVID-19 vaccinations for HCWs and the general population. Other: The protocol used in this review is registered on PROSPERO with the ID number: CRD42022350275.

Prevalence, Attitudes, and Factors Influencing Uptake of the COVID-19 Vaccine in Saudi Arabia

Background: The availability and access to COVID-19 vaccinations are critical to a successful pandemic response. More than 70% of the population reportedly needs to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to achieve herd immunity worldwide. However, the reluctance to get vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccines is holding up the process of vaccination and efforts to control the pandemic and its negative consequences for the global health system, society, and economy. Previous studies have shown low uptake of vaccination in some Middle Eastern countries due to negative attitudes toward vaccination, including concerns about safety and efficacy and doubts about the need for vaccination. Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence, attitudes, and factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among healthcare workers, academic staff, and students in Saudi Arabia after the vaccine was made widely available by the government. Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to determine the prevalence, attitudes, and association between demographic factors and uptake of the first or second dose of vaccination among Saudi Arabian health workers and students. Data were collected using an online questionnaire administered and distributed through the Qualtrics platform. Results: The study recruited 173 participants from different countries and from different Saudi regions, most of whom were faculty members (n = 83). Results indicated significant differences between regions; the mean attitude score for the Western region (M 3.23) was significantly higher than that for other regions (M 3.08, p = 0.030). There was also an association between education level and number of vaccine doses received. Thus, the participants with higher education were the most compliant with national vaccination requirements (p = 0.004). Although the three professional groups reported social media as the most frequently reported source of information (p = 0.021), administrators were more likely to receive information from the MOH than other professional groups. Similarly, faculty members were more likely to receive information from colleagues and professional journals than the other two professional groups. Conclusions: Government officials should build public confidence through vaccination campaigns and devise effective health education programs to increase vaccination uptake. Authorized institutions can effectively use social media platforms to encourage vaccination and promote awareness among all audiences.

What motivated residents of Saudi Arabia to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

Background

Acceptance of vaccination is a multifactorial issue. The unprecedented speed at which the COVID-19 disease spread globally has meant that people have had to face the idea of receiving novel vaccines for a novel disease.

Purpose

Studies conducted earlier in the pandemic had shown high vaccine hesitancy in Saudi Arabia, therefore we wanted to understand the motivating factors for people living in Saudi Arabia with regards to accepting the COVID-19 vaccine, our survey was conducted when the government had already mandated vaccination to enter public spaces. Saudi society is not particularly outspoken and therefore it was of special importance to the authors to explore the motivation behind COVID-19 vaccines.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional survey of 802 participants living in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was distributed to staff, visitors, and patients in a hospital in Saudi Arabia and via electronic means to the general population.

Results

A total of 521 (65%) of the respondents were women, and 281 (35%) were men. A total of 710 (88.5%) were Saudi, and 55 (6.9%) were non-Saudi. The majority of participants (496, 65.7%) stated that they registered for the vaccine as soon as it was available, with 185 (24.5%) stating that they registered when they were mandated to do so and 74 (9.8%) registered only when they felt cases were increasing. Most participants (316, 41%) stated that the main reason for taking the vaccine was one of a self-protective nature, followed by indirect vaccination (240, 31.1%), paternalistic reasons (157, 20.4%) and altruistic reasons (58, 7.5%).

Conclusions

With the increased burden on healthcare that is being faced by COVID-19, other resources need to be carefully allocated. This paper may aid the Saudi government in understanding the motivation for the population to take the vaccine and therefore facilitate any future vaccination campaigns to ensure the best utilization of resources.

Knowledge, attitude and acceptability of COVID-19 vaccine among residents in rural communities in Ghana: a multi-regional study

BACKGROUND

The Coronavirus Infectious Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has continuously affected human life with several devastating effects. Currently, there are effective vaccines to protect people from COVID-19 and the World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted strategies to influence COVID-19 vaccine uptake in hard-to-reach communities in Ghana. However, prior studies on COVID-19 vaccine acceptability in Ghana are online surveys targeting the literates and those in urban areas, leaving residents in far-flung communities. We assessed knowledge, attitude and acceptability of COVID-19 vaccine among residents in rural communities in Ghana.

METHODS

This study was a community-based cross-sectional study and was conducted at three selected regions in Ghana (Northern, Ashanti and Western North) from May to November, 2021. This study included residents 15-81 years, living in the selected rural communities for more than 1 year. Study participants were recruited and questionnaires administered to collect data on knowledge, attitude and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.0 and GraphPad Prism Version 8.0 software.

RESULTS

Of the 764 participants included in this study, more than half had inadequate knowledge (55.0%), poor attitudes (59.4%) and bad perception about COVID-19 vaccine (55.4%). The acceptability of COVID-19 vaccine in this study was 41.9%. The acceptability of COVID-19 vaccine in Ashanti, Northern and Western North regions were 32.5%, 26.2% and 29.6% respectively. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, receiving recent or previous vaccine such as HBV vaccine [aOR = 1.57, 95% CI (1.23-3.29), p = 0.002], having good attitude towards COVID-19 vaccine [aOR = 61.47, 95% CI (29.55-127.86), p < 0.0001] and having good perception about the COVID-19 vaccine [aOR = 3.87, 95% CI (1.40-10.72), p < 0.0001] were independently associated with higher odds of accepting COVID-19 vaccine.

CONCLUSION

More than half of residents in Ghanaian rural communities have inadequate knowledge, poor attitudes and bad perception about COVID-19 vaccine. The acceptability of COVID-19 vaccine is generally low among rural residents in Ashanti, Northern and Western North regions of Ghana. Residents living in hard-to-reach communities must be educated about the benefits of COVID-19 vaccine to achieve effective vaccination program.

Public beliefs and willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines among adults in South-Western Nigeria: A cross-sectional study

Background

Despite the government's and development partners' unmatched efforts to ensure that every eligible person receives vaccinations, there have been concerns about vaccine fear, government mistrust, vaccine hesitancy and rejection expressed by the public, as well as various conspiracy theories involving the COVID-19 vaccines. This study assessed the public beliefs and willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines and related factors among residents of Ondo State, Nigeria.

Methods

Using a convenience sample technique, a cross-sectional survey of the adult population was carried out in the months of February and March of 2022. Factors influencing beliefs and willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines were found by using univariate and multivariate statistical analysis.

Results

306 out of 323 respondents completed the survey and were included in the final analysis. The respondents mean age was 28.16 ± 16.2 years. Although n = 223, 72.9% of respondents reported to have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccines, (n = 205) 67.0% believed COVID-19 vaccines to be effective. Among the individuals who had not yet had any COVID-19 vaccinations, 2.6% (n = 8) of respondents were willing to accept the vaccines, whereas 14.1% (n = 43) were unwilling. Respondents' beliefs about the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines were influenced by their gender, occupation, religion and educational attainment (p < 0.005).

Conclusion

The study revealed a good level of positive beliefs about the vaccine, which was mirrored in vaccination history. However, those who had not yet received the vaccine were unwilling to do so, opening the door for more aggressive risk communication to be able to alter the course of events. In addition to addressing additional COVID-19 vaccination myths, we advise policy-makers to develop communication strategies that emphasise the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine. It is advised that all relevant stakeholders be included in government COVID-19 vaccination programmes by sharing timely, transparent information that fosters accountability.

The socio-cultural factors behind the Saudi attitude toward COVID-19 vaccination: A survey-based study

Introduction

Vaccine distrust and rejection are thought to contribute to disease outbreaks and increased mortality. The present study aimed to analyze the socio-cultural characteristics and attitudes of the Saudi population toward vaccines, using a cross-sectional survey-based approach.

Methods

An online questionnaire was used, following the snowball method. A total of 444 people responded, of whom 333 (75%) were female, and 111 (25%) were male.

Results

The demographic characteristics associated with vaccine confidence were gender, job type, medical problems, and knowledge of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms. The hesitancy was highest (31.17%) among individuals aged 21-30 years old, and in more males (27.03%) expressed hesitancy than females (25.23%). However, if we focused on the percentage of the refusal to receive the vaccine, more females (15.23%) refused the vaccine than males (4.5%). More than one-third of the vaccine-hesitant respondents had limited knowledge of COVID-19 symptoms. Personal characteristics associated with vaccine confidence were described as the following: do not fully trust vaccines produced in a short time (42.1%), fear of the future results of the vaccine (30.4%), reluctance to allow a foreign material to enter the body (17.6%), no interaction with others, so no need for the vaccine (11.5%), low interaction with people (67.8%), and reluctance to make decisions (11.3%). The primary social motivation for getting the vaccine was to get back to normal life (67.6%).

Discussion

The results of the present study revealed that more than half of the respondents in Saudi Arabia were confident about the vaccine (61.7%), while only 25.7% were hesitant and 12.6% were unconvinced. Based on these results, in the early period of COVID-19 vaccine administration in the country (early 2021), before any governmental allowance and political intervention, we found that the socio-demographic and socio-cultural characteristics of the population were significant factors contributing to vaccination acceptance. Therefore, policymakers should support long-term safety studies of the vaccine, conduct educational programs giving high-priority to the populations' health, and tailor vaccination hesitancy reduction techniques to local communities.

Comparison of vaccine hesitancy during the low and high points of COVID-19 in a population under international sanctions: A longitudinal mixed-methods study in Iran

Introduction

Along with the challenges of COVID-19 vaccine supply in low-income countries, vaccine hesitancy was another problem for the health system. The aim of this study was to deeply understand the challenges of vaccine acceptance, the vaccination process, and to compare the affecting vaccine acceptance in the high and low points of the epidemic in Iran.

Methods

In the qualitative part of this mixed-methods study, content analysis was used to investigate experiences and perceptions about COVID-19 vaccination in four groups. In the quantitative study, in March 2021 (low point), and on August 1, 2021 (high point), two population-based cross-sectional studies were performed in Tehran and its rural, with sample sizes of 1,200 and 1,872 people aged over 18 years, respectively. Multinomial (polytomous) logistic regression was used to determine the factors affecting hesitation and unwillingness to receive the vaccine.

Results

Disbelief in vaccine safety, vaccine distrust, ignorance and confusion, and inadequate facilities were the common reasons extracted in the two qualitative studies. At the low and high points of the epidemic, vaccine acceptance was 83.6% (95% CI: 81.3-85.9) and 65.8% (95% CI: 65.8-71.0), respectively. Residence in rural areas, (Odds Ratio: 0.44, p = 0.001), being a student (Odds Ratio: 0.41, p = 0.011), housewives (Odds Ratio: 0.63, p = 0.033), illiteracy (Odds Ratio: 4.44, p = 0.001), and having an underlying disease (Odds Ratio: 4.44, p = 0.001) were factors affecting on vaccine acceptance.

Discussion

Counter-intuitively, acceptance did not increase at the peak of epidemic. The presence of obstacles, such as increased distrust in the effectiveness of vaccines due to the occurrence of multiple peaks in different vaccinated countries, as well as the influence of the media, anti-vaccine campaigns, and lack of proper communication about risks caused more hesitation. More investigation to understand how people accept or reject vaccine and its long term consequences is recommended.

Perception and Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccine Among Nurses in Jordan

Introduction

Vaccination against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a key factor in protecting vulnerable populations, reducing healthcare burdens, and mitigating the economic and social impacts of the pandemic.

Objective

This study aims to investigate Jordanian nurses' perceptions, acceptance, and factors affecting their decisions toward the COVID-19 vaccines.

Methods

In this study, we conducted a cross-sectional design. Data have been investigated between July 1, 2021 and August 30, 2021. Nurses at three private hospitals in Jordan were surveyed online. The online survey, created using Google Forms, was distributed to nurses via email and social media sites (e.g., WhatsApp and Facebook). Participants were eligible if they were a RN nurse and/or nursing assistance, and had access to the internet via computer and/or smartphone.

Results

Out of 189 responses, 50.6% agreed to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, while 25.5% disagreed, and 23.9% were undecide to receive the vaccine. A large proportion (84.66%) of the respondents had a negative perception toward the vaccine, while only a small minority (15.34%) had a positive perception of it. The older nurses, those with more experience, and those with a higher level of education were more likely to accept the vaccine, with acceptance rates of 56.1%, 54.8%, and 63.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

Of the nurses surveyed, 84.66% had a negative perception of the COVID-19 vaccine, and only 50.6% reported that they would be willing to get vaccinated. It is crucial to address the concerns and reduce apprehension among nurses about the vaccine. Efforts to increase awareness about the importance of vaccination in controlling the disease through workshops and online meetings are needed.

Knowledge and Perception of the Employees Towards COVID-19 Vaccination at Palestinian Universities

Introduction

Major efforts are being made to control the spread and impact of the coronavirus pandemic using vaccines. However, willingness to be vaccinated depends largely on factors beyond the availability of vaccines.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and perception of university employees towards the COVID-19 vaccination.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2021. A total of 310 university employees from six Palestinian universities participated in the study. A self-reported questionnaire was used for data collection and included the following: personal and medical characteristics of the university employees' knowledge and perception regarding receiving the COVID-19 vaccination.

Results

Three hundred and ten out of 336 questionnaires (92.3% response rate) were completed and returned by the participants. The results revealed that 41.9% of university employees had good knowledge of the COVID-19 vaccination. On the other hand, 51.9% of them had a positive perception of the COVID-19 vaccination. Also, there is a significant difference between the level of knowledge and perception of the COVID-19 vaccine (p < .05).

Conclusion

Less than half of the university employees had good knowledge, and half of them had a positive attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccination. Also, it has been determined that there is a relationship between the level of knowledge and perception of the COVID-19 vaccine. The study recommended that employees should be involved in educational campaigns to increase their knowledge of the importance of vaccines in COVID-19 prevention.

Social media medical misinformation: impact on mental health and vaccination decision among university students

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need of social media as a medium for gathering health-related information. Simultaneously, a slew of false information, primarily about COVID-19's origin, dissemination, prevention, treatment, and fatality surfaced, making it difficult to distinguish fake from genuine material. However, the possible effects on mental health and the extent to which this influences our decisions, particularly regarding vaccination, are unknown.

AIM

The purpose of this questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was to examine Lebanese University students' perceptions of social media influence during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to measure the impact of misinformation on respondents' mental health and vaccination decisions.

METHODS

In total, 440 students took part and were asked to complete an online survey that included questions on social media trust, the "general health questionnaire index" (GHQ-12), and a scale measuring "attitude towards vaccination".

RESULTS

Our data demonstrated a low frequency of mental health disorders among Lebanese University students, which was correlated to frequent social media exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings suggested that students are more aware of misinformation and had lower rates of despair and anxiety than the general population. Furthermore, Facebook use was associated with worse attitude and behaviour towards vaccination (p = 0.001), but a better mental health. Twitter had the inverse effect (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

It is a necessity to use social media correctly in health-related topics, to push governments and platforms towards making decisions about false and invalidated posts.

Determinants of healthcare workers perceptions, acceptance and choice of COVID-19 vaccines: a cross-sectional study from the United Arab Emirates

Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine among health-care workers (HCWs) is crucial for controlling the pandemic and ensuring HCW and patient safety. Information on the acceptance of different COVID-19 vaccines is lacking. Despite the United Arab Emirates (UAE) having vaccinated most of its population, vaccine acceptance still raises concerns. This study explores COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, vaccine choice, and associated factors among HCWs in the UAE. An online national cross-sectional study was conducted among 517 HCWs. Acceptance and choice of COVID-19 vaccines were assessed, and logistic regression analysis identified predictors for vaccine acceptance. More than half (58%) of HCWs were willing to take the vaccine and give it to their family. Reasons for taking the vaccine were concerns for families contracting COVID-19 (67%) and social responsibility (64%). Reasons for refusals included concerns with side-effects (61%). Most HCWs knew of the Pfizer (79%) and Sinopharm (57%) vaccines; however, acceptance was higher for Pfizer (35%) and AstraZeneca (21%) vaccines. Being male and being influenza vaccinated predicted willingness to take the vaccine (aOR: 2.34; 95% CI:1.34-4.08; p ≤ 0.001) and (aOR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.29-3.51; p ≤ 0.001), respectively. HCWs who expressed concerns with inadequate safety data were less likely to take the vaccine (aOR: 0.17; 95% CI: 0.10-0.30; p ≤ 0.001). Additionally, side effects, perception of risk, and level of trust of company and country of manufacture predicted acceptance and choice of vaccines. Effective vaccine policy campaigns to improve acceptance should target HCW's knowledge and awareness of perceived risks of COVID-19, safety data, social responsibility, and individual preferences for vaccine choice.

Health Consequences of University Employees Post-COVID-19 Vaccination at Palestinian Universities

Introduction

The control of vaccine hesitancy comes with key protective measures against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and excellent efficacy in clinical trials and effectiveness in real-world data. However, some people believe that vaccination is ineffective and it causes health problems. This study aimed to assess the health consequences of university employees' post-COVID-19 vaccination at Palestinian universities.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2021. A total of 310 university employees participated from six universities in Palestine. A self-reported questionnaire was used for data collection and included the following: personal characteristics of university employees, knowledge about COVID-19 vaccination, medical background of the participant, and their perception regarding receiving the COVID-19 vaccination.

Results

The results revealed that 32.6% and 43.2%of the participants had fever post the first and second doses, respectively. Also, 49.0% and 39.4% of them complained of exhaustion or fatigue and headache post the first dose and 58.1% and 46.1% had exhaustion or fatigue and pain in their muscles post the second dose, respectively. In addition, 29.2% and 16.7% of them had respiratory and digestive problems post the first dose and 38.9% and 19.0% had problems in respiratory and digestive respectively post the second dose. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that fever, symptoms at (the injection site), and exposure to physical symptoms have significant differences between the first dose and second doses of the vaccine (p < .001).

Conclusion

This study confirmed that the respiratory and digestive problems are the main problems post-COVID-19 vaccination. Also, this study confirmed that fever, symptoms at (the injection site), and exposure to physical symptoms have significant differences between the first dose and second dose of the vaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance Among Pregnant and Lactating Women in Saudi Arabia

Background The acceptance of vaccines among pregnant and breastfeeding women is vital to alleviate the risk of contracting and transmitting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, we aimed to assess the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among pregnant and breastfeeding/lactating women and the factors associated with the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia. Methodology A cross-sectional survey was conducted among pregnant and breastfeeding women living in Saudi Arabia. A 23-item, self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among pregnant or lactating women. Results A total of 160 (53.3%) pregnant women and 140 (46.7%) breastfeeding/lactating mothers participated in the study. When the participants were asked, "Have you been vaccinated or are you planning to take the vaccine during pregnancy or breastfeeding/lactation?" 164 (54.7%) responded with "Yes." When compared with breastfeeding/lactating mothers (54, 38.6%), pregnant women had more concerns about the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccination (77 (48.1%); p = 0.043). The probability of rejecting COVID-19 vaccination was higher among breastfeeding/lactating women with a lower education level than those with a tertiary education level (odds ratio = 3.42, confidence interval = 1.24, 9.45, p = 0.018). Conclusions This study reported high acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination in a sample of breastfeeding/lactating women. Concern about vaccine safety among many pregnant women was the major reason for hesitancy. Factors such as low education, concerns regarding the efficacy and safety of the vaccine, and doctors' (e.g., obstetrician and gynecologist) recommendations for the COVID-19 vaccine were associated with vaccine acceptance.

Assessing the Impact of Use and Trust in Different Sources of Information on COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake in Saudi Arabia (SA) Using the COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Resistance in SA (CoV-HERSA) Tool

COVID-19 vaccination has been the cornerstone measure to tackle the severe morbidity and mortality of the ongoing global pandemic. However, vaccine hesitancy and resistance were observed in different populations, including Saudi Arabia (SA), yet such hesitancy was not accurately measured, nor were its influencing factors determined. The COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitance and Resistance in SA (CoV-HERSA) tool was developed, validated, and distributed to 387 participants to accurately measure their COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its influencing factors. Different chronic conditions affected participants' CoV-HERSA differently, with those having autoimmune disorders having the highest CoV-HERSA scores. Previous exposure to COVID-19 significantly increased the CoV-HERSA scores. The use and trust of the different sources of information had a significant influence on the CoV-HERSA scores. Those who used newspapers and healthcare practitioners as their source of information had the highest CoV-HERSA scores, while those who relied on family/friends had the lowest scores. The CoV-HERSA is a validated tool that accurately reflects participants' willingness and hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccination and can be used to explore the influence of different factors on the participants' attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine.

Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine and associated factors among health care workers at public hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia using the health belief model

Introduction

Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination among Health Care Workers is mandatory to lessen and curve the spread of transmission of COVID-19. Even though the Health Belief Model is one of the most widely used models for understanding vaccination behavior against COVID-19 disease, COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among Health Care Workers in Ethiopia was not adequately explored by using the Health Belief Model domains.

Purpose

This study aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and associated factors among Health care workers in eastern, Ethiopia.

Methods

Institutional-based cross-sectional study design was used among 417 health care workers selected by a systematic random sampling method from June 1- 30/2021. The data were collected by face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using STATA version 14 statistical software. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis with a 95% confidence interval was carried out to identify factors associated with willingness to COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and a statistical significance was declared at a P-value < 0.05.

Results

The willingness of health care workers to accept the COVID-19 vaccine was 35.6%. Age 30-39 (AOR = 4.16;95% CI: 2.51, 6.88), age ≥ 40 years (AOR = 3.29;95% CI: 1.47, 7.39), good attitude (AOR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.00, 3.55), perceived susceptibility (AOR = 1.93; 95% CI: 1.12, 3.32), and perceived severity (AOR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.03, 3.10) were factors significantly associated with Health Care Workers acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine.

Conclusion

The willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccine among HCWs was low. Factors significantly associated with the willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccine were age, good attitude, perceived susceptibility, and perceived severity of the disease. The low willingness of Health Care Workers to accept the COVID-19 vaccine was alarming and it needs more emphasis from the government in collaboration with other stakeholders to provide reliable information to avert misconceptions and rumors about the vaccine to improve the vaccine status of Health Care Workers to protect the communities.

When the first vaccine arrived: An investigation of factors that influenced the intention of health care workers in the national health system of Greece to be vaccinated against the SARS COV-2 virus during the first trimester of vaccine arrival

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 vaccination started in Greece in the last days of December 2020. Health care workers (HCWs) of the public national health system (NHS) were on the frontline and they would be role models for all the citizens.

AIM

Investigation of the intention and hesitation of HCWs (doctors, nurses, and nursing assistants) of the NHS of Greece, regarding the vaccine against SARS COV-2 virus and the factors that affect them, during the first trimester of the availability of vaccines, in the country.

METHODS

A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in Greece among health professionals (n = 2484) of the NHS. Data were collected with the use of an online questionnaire through snowballing sampling.

RESULTS

Acceptance of a safe and effective COVID- 19 vaccines was higher among doctors (85.6%), followed by nurses (66.3%), and nursing assistants (64.1%). This study confirms pre-existing research on the interaction of gender, age, quality of personal information, educational level, training by the employer, and cognitive background regarding viruses and vaccines.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our study showed that once a vaccine was available, most HCWs were willing to be vaccinated. These findings could be used in the future to tailor communication and promotion campaigns, using anthropocentric strategies.

COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Associated Factors among Women in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Although women have been substantially affected by the pandemic, they tend to have a lower likelihood of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Research on factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among this key population is imperative. Thus, this study aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and associated factors among women in Saudi Arabia. This study was part of a larger study conducted on the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia, carried out between the 8th and 14th of December 2020. The study sample included 910 women aged 18 years and older. Bivariate and multivariable regression analyses was utilized to analyze the data. Overall, 41% of the participants were willing to receive the vaccine. Participants were more willing to accept vaccination if they were 40–49 years old (OR = 2.209, 95% CI: 1.49–2.02), if they had a moderate (OR = 2.570, 95% CI 1.562–4.228) or high to very high (OR = 1.925, 95% CI 1.093–3.390) perceived likelihood of being infected with COVID-19, or if they were in favor of mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for people in Saudi Arabia (OR = 64.916, 95% CI 35.911–117.351). However, participants with a high educational level (OR = 0.431, 95% CI 0.220–0.847) or who refused physician-recommended vaccines in the past (OR = 0.152, 95% CI 0.083–0.275) were less likely to accept COVID-19 vaccination. Given the low level of vaccine acceptance among women, relevant stakeholders should consider the needs and dynamics of this key population to increase vaccination uptake and to improve current and future outreach activities.

Global COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Aim

Achieving high COVID-19 vaccination coverage rates is essential as soon as a vaccine is available to deal with and end this pandemic. Due to the different amounts of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rates in different regions, the pooled estimation of this rate is essential. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate worldwide COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rates.

Subject and methods

International databases (including, Web of sciences, PubMed, and Scopus) were searched to identify related studies. The heterogeneity among studies was assessed using the I2 index, the Cochran Q test, and T2. A random-effects model was used to pool estimate vaccine acceptance rates.

Results

The overall pooled estimate of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate was 65.1 (95% CI 60.1-70.1; P < 0.001, I2 = 99.8). The vaccine acceptance rate in the general population was 68.5 (95% CI 62.5-74.5; P < 0.001, I2 = 99.8) and among healthcare workers (HCWs) was 55.9 (95% CI 47.8-64.1; P < 0.001, I2 = 99.6). The lowest COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate was in the Middle East (46.1% (35.1-57.0)), and the highest coverage rate was (85% (71-99.1)) in South America.

Conclusion

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate among HCWs is lower than the general population. More studies are recommended to identify related factors to the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate.

Acceptance of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines among healthcare workers: A meta-analysis

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed increasing challenges to global health systems. Vaccination against COVID-19 can effectively prevent the public, particularly healthcare workers (HCWs), from being infected by this disease.

Objectives

We aim to understand the factors influencing HCWs' acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase and Web of Science to collect literature published before May 15, 2022, about HCWs' acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines. The Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale was used to assess the risk of bias and the quality of the included studies. We utilized Stata 14.0 software for this meta-analysis with a random-effects model, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. This meta-analysis was conducted in alignment with the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline.

Results

Our meta-analysis included 71 articles with 93,508 HCWs involved. The research showed that the acceptance of vaccines had significantly increased among HCWs compared to non-HCWs (OR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.16-3.12). A willingness to undergo COVID-19 vaccination was observed in 66% (95% CI: 0.61-0.67) of HCWs. Among the HCWs involved, doctors showed a generally increased intention to be vaccinated compared with nurses (OR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.71-2.89). Additionally, males were found to hold more positive attitudes toward vaccination than females (OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.55-2.12). When the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines was improved, the vaccination acceptance of HCWs was greatly increased accordingly (OR = 5.03, 95% CI: 2.77-9.11). The HCWs who were willing to vaccinate against seasonal influenza showed an increased acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines (OR = 3.52, 95% CI: 2.34-5.28). Our study also showed that HCWs who were willing to be vaccinated against COVID-19 experienced a reduced rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.66-0.92).

Conclusions

Our analysis revealed that the five factors of occupation, gender, vaccine effectiveness, seasonal influenza vaccines, and SARS-CoV-2 infection presumably affected the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines among HCWs. It is essential to boost the confidence of HCWs in COVID-19 vaccines for the containment of the epidemic.

Mapping the Prevalence of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance at the Global and Regional Level: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Despite the availability of effective and safe vaccines, the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination is suboptimal. In this meta-analysis we quantified the prevalence estimates of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance with a specific focus on worldwide geographical differences. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and PsycInfo up to April 2021 (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021235328). Generalized random-effects linear models with a logit link were used to calculate the pooled estimated rate of vaccine acceptance at both the global and regional level. A meta-regression analysis was performed to assess the association between COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and various characteristics of the studies. Overall, 71 articles yielding 128 prevalence estimates were included. The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance rate was 66% (95% CI: 61-71%). This varied by geographic area, ranging from 36% (95% CI: 18-60%) in Africa to 83% (95% CI: 82-84%) in Oceania, and there was high variability between countries (15.4% Cameroon-100% Bhutan). Meta-regression analysis showed that studies that investigated COVID-19 vaccination intentions using multiple choice/scoring gave a vaccine acceptance prevalence lower than studies with only two possible answers (yes/no) (ß: -1.02 95% CI: -1.41 to -0.63). Despite some variation in the estimates, the results showed that one in three people may refuse/delay COVID-19 vaccination.

Factors Affecting the Decision Regarding COVID-19 Vaccination in the Saudi Public in the Central Region

Introduction: In response to the disease, multiple companies created coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations. These vaccines were developed utilizing a variety of technologies and at an unprecedented rate, leading many people to question their efficacy and safety, as well as what they thought about how well the vaccination may protect them. As a result, the goal of this study was to evaluate the factors and motivators that may affect the Saudi Arabian population's decision to get COVID-19 vaccination.

Methods: A sample of Saudi citizens from the Central Region completed an electronic questionnaire. This questionnaire assessed a variety of factors, including why people choose to get or not have the COVID-19 vaccination.

Results: In total, 526 Saudis responded to the survey, with the average age being 35±11 years. Of the participants, 408 (77.6%) had received COVID-19 vaccination (one or two doses), and 118 (22.4%) had not been vaccinated. Females (n=233, 73%, P=0.002) and the group less than 35 years (n=223, 54.7%, P=0.017) were more likely than the males to get vaccinated. Married (n=256, 80.5%) and employed (n=261, 81.1%) participants had higher vaccination rates than unmarried and unemployed. Major reasons for not being vaccinated were a lack of knowledge about the adverse effects (n=74, 62.7%), concerns about possible side effects (n=70, 59.3%), and a lack of faith in the vaccination (n=45, 38.1%). Receiving flu vaccination was significantly associated with being vaccinated against COVID-19 (P=0.020).

Conclusion: Lack of knowledge about the vaccine's side effects and uncertainty were the major deterrents to vaccination, whereas faith in the Ministry of Health's instructions was the key motivator.

Behavioural determinants of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance among healthcare workers: a rapid review

OBJECTIVES

Vaccinating healthcare workers (HCWs) against COVID-19 has been a public health priority since rollout began in late 2020. Promoting COVID-19 vaccination among HCWs would benefit from identifying modifiable behavioural determinants. We sought to identify and categorize studies looking at COVID-19 vaccination acceptance to identify modifiable factors to increase uptake in HCWs.

STUDY DESIGN

Rapid evidence review.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and Cochrane databases until May 2021 and conducted a grey literature search to identify cross-sectional, cohort, and qualitative studies. Key barriers to, and enablers of, vaccine acceptance were categorized using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), a comprehensive theoretical framework comprising 14 behavioural domains.

RESULTS

From 19,591 records, 74 studies were included. Almost two-thirds of responding HCWs were willing to accept a COVID-19 vaccine (median = 64%, interquartile range = 50-78%). Twenty key barriers and enablers were identified and categorized into eight TDF domains. The most frequently identified barriers to COVID-19 vaccination were as follows: concerns about vaccine safety, efficacy, and speed of development (TDF domain: Beliefs about consequences); individuals in certain HCW roles (Social/professional role and identity); and mistrust in state/public health response to COVID-19 (Social influences). Routinely being vaccinated for seasonal influenza (Reinforcement), concerns about contracting COVID-19 (Beliefs about consequences) and working directly with COVID-19 patients (Social/professional role and identity) were key enablers of COVID-19 vaccination among HCWs.

DISCUSSION

Our review identified eight (of a possible 14) behavioural determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among HCWs that, if targeted, could help design tailored vaccination messaging, policy, campaigns, and programs to support HCWs vaccination uptake.

The acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine at early stage of development and approval: A global systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Vaccination seems to be the most effective way to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19, a disease that has adversely impacted the lives of over 7 billion people across the globe. Vaccine hesitancy represents an important threat to combat infectious diseases worldwide. This study aims to inspect the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate worldwide and the regional variation of the acceptance rates among the general population and healthcare workers across different territories of the world. In addition, it compares the vaccine acceptance rates between the pre- and post-vaccine approval periods.

Method

A comprehensive systematic review was conducted using PRISMA statements. After quality evaluation, the data from eligible studies were analyzed using the random effect model. Q-test and I2 statistics were used to search for heterogeneity. The publication bias was assessed by using Egger’s test and funnel plot.

Results

The combined COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate among the general population and healthcare workers (n = 1,581,562) was estimated at 62.79% (95% CI: 58.98–66.60). The acceptance rate substantially decreased from 66.29% (95% CI: 61.24–71.35) to 56.69% (95% CI: 48.68–64.71) among the general population from the pre-to post-vaccine approval periods but remained almost constant at 58.25% (95% CI: 46.52–69.97) among healthcare workers. The acceptance rates also varied in different regions of the world. The highest acceptance rate was found in the South-East Asia region at 70.18% (95% CI: 58.12–82.25) and the lowest was found in African Region at 39.51% (95% CI: 23.42–55.59).

Conclusion

Low COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate might be a massive barrier to controlling the pandemic. More research is needed to address the responsible factors influencing the low global rate of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Integrated global efforts are required to remove the barriers.

Determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in healthcare workers in Iran: National Survey

BACKGROUND AND AIM

It seems that acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination is the most effective way to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic now. Health care workers (HCWs) are one of the most important groups who are at risk for COVID-19 infection. This study aimed to assess the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among HCWs in Iran and its determinants.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 3600 HCWs in Iran. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire by a trained team from February to March 2021. Multi-stage cluster sampling method was used for selecting respondents of the study. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the key factors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among participants. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Out of the 3536 respondents, 2191 (62.1%) intended to uptake the COVID-19 vaccine. Only about 10 percent of respondents said they did not trust any vaccine (domestic or foreign). Willing to accept a COVID-19 vaccine was relatively high among males, doctors, and those who had a history of hospitalization due to COVID-19 infection. The multivariate regression analysis showed respondents who were 40-50 years (aOR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.47-1.66), had a history of COVID-19 infection (aOR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.83-0.88), and hospitalized due to COVID-19 infection (aOR: 2.18; 95% CI: 1.97-2.39), were significantly associated with vaccine acceptance (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed moderate acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination in the HCWs in the Islamic Republic of Iran. The most important factor in the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine by the health staff is having a history of hospitalization. Further training and justification of health personnel is needed to increase the acceptance of COVID 19 vaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccination Intentions amongst Healthcare Workers: A Scoping Review

A worldwide vaccination programme is the chosen strategy against the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccine hesitancy, however, forms a threat to achieving a high degree of vaccination. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are exposed to greater risks, in addition to HCWs who care for people with intellectual disabilities (ID). However, little is still known about these groups' vaccine hesitancy. This review aims to provide insight into the intentions and attitudes of HCWs on COVID-19 vaccination, including those who care for people with ID. The search included both types and was conducted in nine databases. A total of 26 papers were identified concerning the vaccine intentions of 43,199 HCWs worldwide. The data were gathered both quantitively and qualitatively. The papers were analysed for all of the themes regarding vaccine intentions, which were: (1) percentages of vaccine willingness; (2) predictors of willingness; (3) attitudes of willingness and hesitancy; (4) sources of vaccination information; (5) contextual factors and changes in COVID-19 vaccine acceptance over time; and (6) future strategies for interventions. Concerns about vaccine safety, efficacy and short- and long-term side effects were the most prominent in HCWs and, therefore, should be addressed in future intervention strategies. Furthermore, interactive interventions are recommended to facilitate exchange, and accurate information should be accessible to target groups on social media platforms.

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy amongst healthcare workers: An assessment of its magnitude and determinants during the initial phase of national vaccine deployment in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

While vaccination plays a critical role in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine rollout remains suboptimal in Nigeria and other Low- and Middle-income countries (LMICs). This study documents the level of hesitancy among health workers (HWs) during the initial COVID-19 vaccine deployment phase in Nigeria and assesses the magnitude and determinants of hesitancy across Nigeria.

METHODS

A cross sectional study across all States in Nigeria was conducted with over 10,000 HWs interviewed between March and April 2021. Data were cleaned and analyzed with proportions and confidence intervals of hesitancy documented and stratification by HW category. We compared the level of confidence/acceptance to be vaccinated across Nigeria and documented the sources of negative information amongst HWs who refused the vaccine.

FINDINGS

Among the 10 184 HWs interviewed, 9 369 [92% (95% CI= 91, 92)] were confident of the COVID-19 vaccines and were already vaccinated at the time of this survey. Compared to HWs who were less than 20 years old, those aged 50 - 59 years were significantly more confident of the COVID-19 vaccines and had been vaccinated (OR=3.8, 95% CI=2.3 - 6.4, p<0.001). Only 858 (8%) of the HWs interviewed reported being hesitant with 57% (479/858) having received negative information, with the commonest source of information from social media (43.4%.).

INTERPRETATION

A vast majority of HWs who were offered COVID-19 vaccines as part of the first phase of national vaccine roll out were vaccinated and reported being confident of the COVID-19 vaccines. The reported hesitancy was due mainly to safety issues, and negative information about vaccines from social media. The issues identified remain a significant risk to the success of subsequent phases of the vaccine rollout in Nigeria.

FUNDING

None.

COVID-19 Vaccination Intent, Barriers and Facilitators in Healthcare Workers: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study on 2500 Employees at LMU University Hospital in Munich, Germany

Considering the role of healthcare workers (HCW) in promoting vaccine uptake and previously recorded hesitancy among HCW, we aim to examine the COVID-19 vaccination intent and status of HCW through a cross-sectional anonymous online survey at LMU University Hospital in Munich. Data collection was informed by the Health Belief Model (HBM) and focused on vaccination intent, status and on potential factors affecting the decision-making process. In total, 2555 employees completed the questionnaire. Our data showed that an approving attitude towards recommended vaccines and having received an influenza vaccine in the previous winter were strongly associated with COVID-19 vaccination intent. Further, a positive COVID-19 vaccination status was associated with a higher likelihood of approving the extension of the validity of non-pharmaceutical interventions at the workplace. Our HBM-analysis demonstrated strong associations between the perceived benefits and barriers and COVID-19 vaccination intent. Unchanged or low perceived susceptibility and severity were associated with refusal or indecisiveness. Our findings highlight the factors associated with the decision regarding a COVID-19 vaccine and indicate a pattern-like behavior in the acceptance of novel vaccines by HCW. These insights can help inform the communication aims of vaccination campaigns among HCW within similar organizational contexts or in future outbreaks.

Willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccine and associated factors among adult chronic patients. A cross-sectional study in Northwest Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

People with pre-existing chronic diseases are more likely to acquire COVID-19 infections, which can be fatal, and die from COVID-19 illness. COVID-19 vaccination will benefit those at a higher risk of developing complications and dying from the disease. This study aimed to determine chronic patients' willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and the factors that influence their willingness.

METHOD

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 adult chronic patients in the University of Gondar specialized hospital outpatient departments. The participants were chosen using systematic random sampling methods with an interval of 5. Face-to-face interviews were used to collect data from eligible respondents. Epi-data version 4.6 and SPSS version 25 were used for the data entry data analysis. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the relationship between the dependent and independent factors. An odds ratio with 95 percent confidence intervals and a P-value was used to determine the association's strength and statistical significance.

RESULT

Out of 401 respondents, 219 (54.6%) with [95% CI (49.7-59.5%)] of study participants were willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Being a healthcare worker (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.24-6.96), Lost family members or friends due to COVID-19 (AOR = 2.47, 95% CI: 1.21-5.00), good knowledge about COVID-19 vaccine (AOR = 2.44, 95% CI: 1.37-4.33), favorable attitude towards COVID-19 vaccine (AOR = .8.56 95% CI: 4.76-15.38), perceived suitability of the COVID-19 infection (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.62-5.33) and perceived benefit of the COVID-19 vaccine (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.08-3.31), were found to be a significant association with the willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine among chronic patients.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that around 55% of adult chronic patients were willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Providing health education for chronic patients to emphasize the knowledge and attitude of the COVID-19 vaccine and raise patients' perceived risk of COVID-19 and the benefit of the COVID-19 vaccine could be recommended to improve their willingness to COVID-19 vaccination.

Prevalence and Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among the Ethiopian Population: A Systematic Review

Introduction

Although vaccination is the most effective way to end the COVID-19 pandemic, there are growing concerns that vaccine hesitancy may undermine its effectiveness. In Ethiopia, vaccine hesitancy forms a major challenge to the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines. This systematic review examined the prevalence and determinants of the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among the Ethiopian population.

Methods

A systematic search of articles was conducted in PubMed, EBSCO, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar. Studies that evaluated the prevalence and determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Ethiopia were included. The identified determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were analyzed based on the frequency of occurrence in the included studies.

Results

The overall COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy level in the Ethiopian population ranged from 14.1% to 68.7%. The high COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy rate observed in this study was due to contextual factors, individual factors, and vaccine-specific factors. Young age, female sex, living in rural areas, lack of adequate information, and lower education are the most common contextual determinants of the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Lack of awareness about the COVID-19 vaccine, low risk of COVID-19, poor adherence to COVID-19 prevention strategies, and negative attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccine are the most frequently reported personal factors. Common vaccine-specific determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitation are the side effects of the vaccine and doubts about its effectiveness of the vaccine.

Conclusion

Our review showed that COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy remains highly prevalent and varied across regions of Ethiopia, with a wide variety of factors associated with it. Potential interventions on the benefits of vaccination and the adverse effects of vaccine rejection are crucial to enhance COVID-19 vaccine uptake among the Ethiopian population.

Predictors of the Third (Booster) Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Intention among the Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia: An Online Cross-Sectional Survey

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic is still continuing throughout the world, with newer genetic variants regularly appearing from different parts of the world. Considering the waning of immunity against COVID-19 infection even with two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, regulatory authorities have authorised booster COVID-19 vaccination in many countries, especially for vulnerable populations, including healthcare workers. The current study analysed factors predicting the third (booster) dose of COVID-19 vaccine intention, including the health belief model (HBM), among the healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia. Methods: The current study was a cross-sectional online survey performed from 1st October 2021 to 30th November 2021, using a questionnaire prepared in GoogleTM form among healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire asked demographic factors, COVID-19 experience of participants, subjective assessment of health, intention of COVID-19 booster dose vaccination, preferences for local/foreign-made vaccines, and health belief of the study population related to COVID-19 infection and COVID-19 booster dose. Results: This study received 2059 complete responses. The study population reported mixed health belief with respect to the susceptibility of COVID-19 infection, and higher health belief perception regarding the severity. The perceptions of the study participants regarding the benefits of COVID-19 booster dose were positive. There were few barriers to COVID-19 booster dose expressed by study participants. A total of 1464 (71.1%) study participants reported positive intent for receiving a COVID-19 booster dose. The study showed significant association between definite intention to receive a booster dose and nationality (p = 0.001), marital status (p = 0.017), gender (p < 0.001), education level (p = 0.001), monthly income (p < 0.001), and co-morbid medical illness (p = 0.045). The perception of the COVID-19 booster vaccine as a good idea to minimise worries about getting COVID-19 (OR = 2.28, CI 1.89−2.76), and perceptions that receiving the third (booster) dose reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection and associated complications (OR= 2.69, CI = 2.17−3.34), of the perceived benefit construct of HBM, predicted significantly higher definite intention to receive a booster dose. The concern with the safety of the vaccine (OR= 0.40, CI 0.34−0.47) under the perceived barriers construct of HBM predicted as significantly higher no definite intention to receive a booster dose. Conclusions: The results of the present study can guide policy makers in their efforts to promote booster doses of COVID-19 vaccination among the healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia.

COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in the Context of the First Delta Outbreak in China During the Early Summer of 2021: The Role of Geographical Distance and Vaccine Talk

Purpose

Vaccination is essential to control the prevalence of COVID-19. However, vaccine hesitancy has been a major issue globally. Some studies have suggested that community outbreaks might boost vaccine uptake. Consistent with that idea, vaccination rates increased dramatically during the first outbreak of the COVID-19 Delta variant in Guangdong, China, in June 2021. Based on the risk perception attitude theory, this study attempted to explore the joint effect of geographical distance to the outbreak and the frequency of talking about the COVID-19 vaccine (vaccine talk) on people’s COVID-19 vaccine uptake.

Methods

An anonymous self-report online questionnaire was completed by citizens living in Guangdong Province, China, from June 6 to 11, 2021, during the Delta variant outbreak in that region. The relationship between COVID-19 vaccine uptake, geographical distance to the epicenter of the outbreak, and vaccine talk was analyzed using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Data from 350 respondents were included in the final analysis. Results showed a negative association between geographical distance and COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Furthermore, the relationship was moderated by vaccine talk. Specifically, when individuals infrequently discussed vaccine talk with others, close distance to the epicenter of the outbreak served as a motivator for getting vaccinated, whereas for people who frequently discussed the vaccine, geographical distance might have played less of a role in motivating them to get vaccinated.

Conclusion

This research highlights the joint effect of geographical distance to the outbreak of COVID-19 and vaccine talk in COVID-19 vaccine uptake. While the findings may only be a starting point for launching a public health awareness campaign, encouraging people to engage in more conversations about vaccines may be a promising solution for future health emergencies, especially among people far from the outbreak.

COVID-19 Vaccination Hesitancy among Healthcare Workers-A Review

The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated vaccine have highlighted vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers (HCWs). Vaccine hesitancy among this group existed prior to the pandemic and particularly centered around influenza vaccination. Being a physician, having more advanced education, and previous vaccination habits are frequently associated with vaccine acceptance. The relationship between age and caring for patients on COVID-19 vaccination is unclear, with studies providing opposing results. Reasons for hesitancy include concerns about safety and efficacy, mistrust of government and institutions, waiting for more data, and feeling that personal rights are being infringed upon. Many of these reasons reflect previous attitudes about influenza vaccination as well as political beliefs and views of personal autonomy. Finally, several interventions to encourage vaccination have been studied, including education programs and non-monetary incentives with the most effective studies using a combination of methods.

Side Effects and Perceptions of COVID-19 Vaccination in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Vaccination against any disease is critical in improving and maintaining public health. However, the overall effectiveness of a vaccine largely depends on the willingness of a population to receive it. The main aim of this study was to assess the side effects and perceptions about COVID-19 vaccines among adults following vaccination in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted from July 13 to July 20, 2021, among adults aged 18 years and older who had taken one or both doses of COVID-19 vaccines in Saudi Arabia. The survey included questions on socio-demographics, health behavior, vaccine type, knowledge about sources of information about COVID-19 vaccines, and perceptions and beliefs following vaccination. Bivariate and multivariable regression analyses were the major data analytic tools employed in the study.

Results

The most common vaccine side effects reported were tiredness/fatigue (52.6%), swelling (38%), fever (31.3%), headache (29.1%), and muscle pain (22.2%). In multivariable analyses, the odds of experiencing severe side effects were significantly higher among males [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.71–4.45, p < 0.01], those aged 40–49 years (aOR = 3.10, 95% CI = 1.10–8.72, p < 0.1), and Saudi nationals (aOR = 3.64, 95% CI = 1.58–8.38, p < 0.05) compared to their counterparts. The odds of believing that COVID-19 vaccines are safe in the long-term were significantly higher among men (aOR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.16–2.65, p < 0.01) and among individuals who had received two doses (aOR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.09–2.40, p < 0.05), and the odds of advising others to get vaccinated for COVID-19 were also significantly higher among respondents who had received two doses (aOR = 2.81, 95% CI = 1.60–4.93, p < 0.01) compared to their counterparts.

Conclusion

This study identified the most common COVID-19 vaccine side effects in Saudi Arabia, therefore making them predictable. This information will help reduce vaccine hesitancy as booster doses become available.

'Why Should I Take the COVID-19 Vaccine after Recovering from the Disease?' A Mixed-methods Study of Correlates of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptability among Health Workers in Northern Nigeria

We assessed the acceptability of COVID-19 vaccine, predictors, and reasons for vaccine hesitancy among clinical and non-clinical staff at a tertiary hospital in Kano, northern Nigeria.Using a mixed-methods design, structured questionnaires were administered to 284 hospital staff, followed by 20 in-depth interviews with a purposive sub-sample. Logistic regression and the framework approach were used to analyze the data.Only 24.3% (n = 69) of the respondents were willing to accept the COVID-19 vaccine. Acceptance was lower among females (Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) = 0.37, 95% Confidence Interval (95%CI): 0.18-0.77 (male vs. female), nurses/midwives (aOR = 0.41, 95%CI:0.13-0.60, physicians vs. nurses/midwives), persons not tested for COVID-19 (aOR = 0.32, 95%CI 0.13-0.79) (no vs. yes) and those who perceived themselves to be at low risk of COVID-19 (aOR = 0.47, 95%CI,0.21-0.89, low vs. high). In contrast, vaccine acceptance was higher among more experienced workers (aOR = 2.28, 95%CI:1.16-8.55, ≥10 vs. <5 years). Vaccine acceptance was also higher among persons who did not worry about vaccine efficacy (aOR = 2.35, 95%CI:1.18-6.54, no vs. yes), or about vaccine safety (aOR = 1.76, 95%CI: 1.16-5.09, no vs. yes), side effects (aOR = 1.85, 95%CI:1.17-5.04, no vs. yes), or rumors (aOR = 2.55, 95%CI:1.25-5.20, no vs. yes). The top four reasons for vaccine hesitancy included distrust, inadequate information, fear of long-term effects, and infertility-related rumors.Concerted efforts are required to build COVID-19 vaccine confidence among health workers in Kano, Nigeria.Our findings can help guide implementation of COVID-19 vaccination in similar settings.