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Kaufman J, Overmars I, Fong J, Tudravu J, Devi R, Volavola L, Vodonaivalu L, Jenkins K, Leask J, Seale H, Mohamed Y, Joshi K, Datt H, Sagan S, Dynes M, Hoq M, Danchin M. Training health workers and community influencers to be Vaccine Champions: a mixed-methods RE-AIM evaluation. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e015433. [PMID: 39251236 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2024-015433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increasing trust and confidence in vaccines is a global priority, as countries have grappled with delivering COVID-19 vaccines, maintaining routine childhood vaccination rates and introducing new vaccines. Community-based vaccine promotion interventions are commonly implemented, but effectiveness evidence is limited. In 2022, supported by the Australian Government and in partnership with Fiji's Ministry of Health and UNICEF, we codesigned, delivered and comprehensively evaluated a vaccine education and communication training programme for health workers and community influencers to promote COVID-19 and routine immunisation. METHODS The Vaccine Champions programme included three phases: (1) codesign with Fiji stakeholders; (2) vaccine education and communication training for Vaccine Champions and (3) support for Champions to deliver community vaccine discussion sessions over 6 months.The RE-AIM framework evaluation measured programme reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation and maintenance. Mixed-methods data were collected through interviews, surveys and field notes, integrating qualitative and quantitative data to triangulate findings. Primary outcomes included Champions' knowledge, communication self-efficacy, trust in COVID-19 vaccines, programme satisfaction and community members' intention to vaccinate. RESULTS We trained 35 Champions (27/35 female), including health workers, faith and community influencers. Half had a health background (17/35). Champions conducted 54 discussion sessions, reaching 1717 community members. Most Champions (22/35) conducted at least 1 session, with 16 running 3 or more. Champions who did not run sessions reported barriers like lack of confidence and competing duties. Training increased Champions' communication self-efficacy and trust in COVID-19 vaccines. Community member intention to vaccinate increased from 41% (394/960) to 83% (822/991) before and after a session. The programme was well received with interest in continued engagement. CONCLUSION Training health workers and community Vaccine Champions can promote vaccine confidence. Programmes require government support and engagement for sustainability. Robust evaluation frameworks are needed to build the evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Kaufman
- Vaccine Uptake Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- The University of Melbourne Department of Paediatrics, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Isabella Overmars
- Vaccine Uptake Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James Fong
- Republic of Fiji Ministry of Health, Suva, Rewa, Fiji
| | | | - Rachel Devi
- Republic of Fiji Ministry of Health, Suva, Rewa, Fiji
| | | | - Luisa Vodonaivalu
- Vaccine Uptake Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kylie Jenkins
- Vaccine Uptake Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie Leask
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney Faculty of Medicine and Health, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Holly Seale
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yasmin Mohamed
- Vaccine Uptake Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Michelle Dynes
- UNICEF East Asia and Pacific Regional Office, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Monsurul Hoq
- Vaccine Uptake Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margie Danchin
- Vaccine Uptake Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- The University of Melbourne Department of Paediatrics, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Tiwana MH, Smith J. Faith and vaccination: a scoping review of the relationships between religious beliefs and vaccine hesitancy. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1806. [PMID: 38971784 PMCID: PMC11227154 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18873-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Throughout history, vaccines have proven effective in addressing and preventing widespread outbreaks, leading to a decrease in the spread and fatality rates of infectious diseases. In a time where vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge to public health, it is important to identify the intricate interplay of factors exemplified at the individual and societal levels which influence vaccination behaviours. Through this analysis, we aim to shed new light on the dynamics of vaccine hesitancy among religious groups, contributing to the broader effort to promote vaccine uptake, dispel misunderstandings, and encourage constructive dialogue with these groups. METHODS We used the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) using the 20-point checklist to guide this review. The inclusion criteria for our study were that the literature should be in English, concerned with vaccine hesitancy as the focus of study, study the impact religiosity or religious beliefs as either an outcome or control variable, concerning population levels, and be peer-reviewed. RESULTS We analysed 14 peer-reviewed articles that included components related to religiosity or religious beliefs and their impact on vaccine hesitancy published until September 2023. All the articles were published in approximately the last decade between 2012 and 2023, with only 4 of the articles published before 2020. Out of the 14 studies included in our review, twelve utilized quantitative methods, while the remaining two employed qualitative approaches. Among the studies included in our analysis, we found various approaches to categorizing religious belief and identity. In most studies when religion is uniformly regarded as the sole determinant of vaccine hesitancy, it consistently emerges as a significant factor in contributing to vaccine hesitancy. All studies in our review reported sociodemographic factors to some degree related to vaccine hesitancy within their sample populations. Our analysis underscored the need for nuanced approaches to addressing vaccine hesitancy among religious groups. CONCLUSION Vaccine hesitancy is a complex issue and driven by a myriad of individual and societal factors among which religious beliefs is commonly associated to be a driver of higher levels among populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Haaris Tiwana
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, Room 11810, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Julia Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, Room 11810, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
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Phrasisombath K, Kubota S, Elliott EM, Horiuchi S, Ounaphom P, Phimmachak L, Souksavanh O, Vongsouvanh P, Rakotomalala Robinson D, Channavong S, Deharo E, Seal WRE, Lo YRJ, Phoummalaysith B. Reaching the unreached through building trust: a mixed-method study on COVID-19 vaccination in rural Lao PDR. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e014680. [PMID: 38843896 PMCID: PMC11163684 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-014680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The global COVID-19 vaccine rollout has been impacted by socioeconomic disparities and vaccine hesitancy, but few studies examine reasons for changed attitudes. In Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), a nationwide government-led initiative was developed in response to COVID-19, focused on community health ownership and trust in primary healthcare. The intervention team including health and governance sectors conducted capacity-building workshops with local staff and community representatives and visited villages for vaccination outreach. This study investigates the impact of this intervention on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in rural communities. METHODS Conducted in Xiengkhuang province, Lao PDR, from December 2022 to February 2023, the study employed a sequential mixed-methods research design. Data on vaccinated individuals from 25 villages were collected from 11 primary healthcare units; pre-post analysis was applied. Qualitative data, gathered through interviews and focus group discussions with villagers, village authorities, health staff and local government (n=102) in six villages, underwent inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS First-dose vaccine uptake after the intervention increased significantly (6.9 times). Qualitative analysis identified key reasons for vaccination hesitancy: (1) mistrust due to rumours and past experiences; (2) poor communication and inconsistent messaging and (3) challenges in access for priority groups. Influencing factors during the intervention included (1) effective local-context communication; (2) leveraging existing community structures and influential individuals in a multisectoral approach and (3) increased community motivation through improved satisfaction, ownership and relationships. CONCLUSION This study highlights the impact and methods of building trust with unreached populations in health interventions, emphasising locally led solutions. Successful reversal of vaccine hesitancy was achieved by addressing root causes and fostering ownership at community and local government levels through a 'positive approach'. This diverges from conventional supplemental immunisation activities and holds potential for systematically building trust between unreached populations and health systems. Further research could explore the impacts of routine vaccination for sustained improvements in health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketkesone Phrasisombath
- Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion, Ministry of Health Lao PDR, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Shogo Kubota
- Maternal Child Health and Quality Safety, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines
| | - Elizabeth M Elliott
- Maternal Child Health and Quality Safety, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines
| | - Sayaka Horiuchi
- Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Phonepaseuth Ounaphom
- Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion, Ministry of Health Lao PDR, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Laty Phimmachak
- Ministry of Home Affairs Lao PDR, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Ounkham Souksavanh
- World Health Organization Lao PDR, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Pavina Vongsouvanh
- World Health Organization Lao PDR, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | | | - Souliya Channavong
- World Health Organization Lao PDR, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
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Song MY, Blake-Hepburn D, Karbasi A, Fadel SA, Allin S, Ataullahjan A, Ruggiero ED. Public health partnerships with faith-based organizations to support vaccination uptake among minoritized communities: A scoping review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002765. [PMID: 38837963 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Faith-based vaccine initiatives are of growing interest to public health agencies who are looking to increase vaccine confidence among ethnoracially minoritized populations. Despite evidence that support faith-based organizations' (FBOs) partnerships with public health agencies (PHAs) to increase vaccine confidence, reviews on the scope and efforts to ensure equitable vaccination delivery for ethnoracially minoritized populations are scarce. We aimed to understand how public health agencies collaborate with FBOs or faith communities to improve vaccine confidence among minoritized communities in high-, low- and middle- income countries. We conducted a scoping review by searching OVID MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), SCOPUS, and PROQUEST from 2011 to 2023. We included case studies, news reports, observational studies, experimental, and quasi-experimental studies and multimedia content that describes PHA-FBO partnerships that created vaccine initiatives for marginalized and minoritized communities. The data was extracted, summarized, and results were described narratively. We included 167 initiatives reported in 160 publications; 83.8% of the included articles were published between 2019 to 2023. The interventions carried out by PHA-FBO partnerships attempted to increase vaccine uptake using any or all the following methods. First, the initiatives provided digital and in-person platforms for interfaith learning and established training programs to empower faith leaders to become vaccine ambassadors. Second, the initiatives designed and disseminated education and awareness materials that aimed to be sensitive to religious and gender norms. Third, PHA-FBO partnered to apply equity and faith-based frameworks and provided wrap-around support to enable equitable vaccine access. Majority of the initiatives reported that PHA-FBO partnerships improved vaccine confidence and uptake (71.3%). About 22.2% of the initiatives reported quantitative outcomes post-intervention. PHA-FBO initiatives over the past decade increased vaccine uptake and acceptance among diverse ethnoracially minoritized populations. Reporting of faith-based initiatives are subject to publication bias and can be strengthened by examining more evaluation studies and establishment of key outcome indicators to critically appraise intervention outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melodie Yunju Song
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Anna Karbasi
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Shaza A Fadel
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Clinical Public Health Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sara Allin
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anushka Ataullahjan
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Erica Di Ruggiero
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Social and Behavioural Health Sciences Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Ansar F, Azzam A, Rauf MS, Ajmal Z, Asad Ullah G, Rauf S, Akram R, Ghauri FK, Chudhary F, Iftikhar H, Iqbal A, Ahmad MB. Global Analysis of RTS, S/AS01 Malaria Vaccine Acceptance Rates and Influencing Factors: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e60678. [PMID: 38899238 PMCID: PMC11186483 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, with Plasmodium parasites transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Despite historical efforts, malaria continues to affect millions worldwide, particularly in tropical regions. This systematic review aimed to assess the acceptability of the RTS, S/AS01 malaria vaccine among diverse populations. A comprehensive search strategy was employed across databases such as Cochrane Library, Embase, Google Scholar, and Medline. Studies were included based on specific criteria, including observational and cross-sectional designs involving adults. Data extraction and analysis were conducted meticulously, encompassing key variables related to vaccine acceptance rates and influencing factors. Analysis of 18 studies involving 18,561 participants revealed an overall malaria vaccine acceptance rate of 87.51%, ranging from 32.26% to 99.30%. Significant variations were observed based on demographics, with Ghana and Nigeria reporting high acceptance rates. Factors influencing acceptance included knowledge levels, past vaccination experiences, community preferences, and engagement in malaria prevention behaviors. Concerns about adverse reactions and regional disparities were noted as potential barriers to acceptance. This review highlights the importance of understanding public perceptions and concerns regarding malaria vaccines to enhance vaccine coverage and uptake. Tailored communication strategies, advocacy efforts, and targeted education interventions are crucial for addressing misconceptions and increasing vaccine acceptance. Policy recommendations should consider demographic and regional factors to ensure effective implementation of malaria vaccination programs, ultimately contributing to global malaria prevention efforts and public health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farrukh Ansar
- Department of Medicine, Alkhidmat Raazi Hospital, Rawalpindi, PAK
| | - Abdullah Azzam
- Department of Medicine, Alkhidmat Raazi Hospital, Rawalpindi, PAK
| | - Mohammad S Rauf
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Northwest General Hospital, Peshawar, PAK
| | - Zeeshan Ajmal
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Gulab Devi Hospital, Lahore, PAK
| | - Gohar Asad Ullah
- Department of Medicine, Alkhidmat Raazi Hospital, Rawalpindi, PAK
| | - Shiza Rauf
- Department of Medicine, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, GBR
| | - Rabia Akram
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur, PAK
| | - Fatima K Ghauri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Quaid-E-Azam Medical College, Bahawalpur, PAK
| | - Fizza Chudhary
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Niazi Medical & Dental College, Sargodha, PAK
| | - Hamdah Iftikhar
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Rai Medical College, Sargodha, PAK
| | - Ashir Iqbal
- Department of Medicine, Alkhidmat Raazi Hospital, Rawalpindi, PAK
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Stover J, Avadhanula L, Sood S. A review of strategies and levels of community engagement in strengths-based and needs-based health communication interventions. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1231827. [PMID: 38655513 PMCID: PMC11035763 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1231827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Community engagement is key in health communication interventions that seek to incorporate community voices in their planning and implementation. Understanding what approaches and strategies are currently being used can help tailor programs in different social and cultural contexts. This review explores needs-based and strengths-based approaches and consensus and conflict strategies in community-based global health communications programs. Our objective is to examine the current state of the field, outline lessons learned, and identify gaps in existing programming to help guide future interventions. Methods PubMed and Web of Science were searched for articles published between 2010 and 2023. Studies were included if they described a community-based health communication intervention and an ongoing or completed implementation. Interventions were coded then categorized according to their level of community engagement and as single, hybrid, or complex, depending upon the number of approaches and strategies used. Results The search yielded 678 results and 42 were included in the final review and analysis. A vast majority 34 (81.0%) interventions utilized a needs-based approach and 24 (57.1%) utilized a strengths-based approach. Consensus as a strategy was utilized in 38 (90.5%) of the manuscripts and 9 (21.4%) implemented a conflict strategy. Interventions that combined approaches and strategies were more likely to leverage a higher level of community engagement. Conclusion These results showcase the complicated nature of global health communication program planning and implementation. There is a lack of interventions that use conflict as a strategy to empower communities to act on their own behalf, even when at odds with existing power structures. Complex interventions that include all approaches and strategies demonstrate the potential for global health communication interventions to be at the cutting edge of public health practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Stover
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Laxmisupriya Avadhanula
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Suruchi Sood
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Department of Health Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Boisson-Walsh A, Fried B, Shea CM, Ngimbi P, Mbonze N, Tabala M, Kashamuka MM, Babakazo P, Yotebieng M, Thompson P. Using intervention mapping to develop an implementation strategy to improve timely uptake of streamlined birth-dose vaccines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002641. [PMID: 38271398 PMCID: PMC10810515 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Despite the policy recommendation and effectiveness of administering the hepatitis B birth-dose vaccine (HepB-BD) to newborns to prevent mother-to-child hepatitis B transmission, timely uptake remains an issue. Countries adopting the HepB-BD to their national immunization schedule report programmatic challenges to administering the vaccine within the recommended 24-hour window after delivery. Further, while the World Health Organization recommends streamlining three birth-dose vaccines (HepB-BD, BCG, and OPV0), scarce Sub-Saharan(SSA)-based literature reports on a streamlined and timely approach to birth-dose vaccines. As more SSA countries adopt the new birth-dose vaccine to their immunization schedules, a systematically developed implementation strategy-Vaccination of Newborns-Innovative Strategies to Hasten Birth-Dose vaccines' delivery (VANISH-BD)-will facilitate the adoption and implementation of timely birth-dose vaccine uptake. In this paper, we describe the development of the implementation strategy using intervention mapping, an evidence-based and theory-driven approach. We report on the development of our intervention, beginning with the needs assessment based in Kinshasa Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), informing step 1 of intervention mapping. The intervention is contextually relevant, locally produced, sustainable, and designed to improve timely birth-dose vaccine uptake in the DRC. We intend to inform future implementers about improving timely and streamlined birth-dose vaccine uptake and for VANISH-BD to be adapted for similar contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alix Boisson-Walsh
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Bruce Fried
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Shea
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Patrick Ngimbi
- Ecole de Santé Publique de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Nana Mbonze
- Ecole de Santé Publique de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Martine Tabala
- Ecole de Santé Publique de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Pélagie Babakazo
- Ecole de Santé Publique de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Marcel Yotebieng
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Peyton Thompson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
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Alsuwaidi AR, Hammad HAAK, Elbarazi I, Sheek-Hussein M. Vaccine hesitancy within the Muslim community: Islamic faith and public health perspectives. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2190716. [PMID: 36914409 PMCID: PMC10038058 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2190716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy is a growing public health concern that has fueled the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases in several Muslim-majority countries. Although multiple factors are associated with vaccine hesitancy, certain religious deliberations are significant in determining individuals' vaccine-related decisions and attitudes. In this review article, we summarize the literature on religious factors linked to vaccine hesitancy among Muslims, thoroughly discuss the Islamic law (sharia) viewpoint on vaccination and offer recommendations to address vaccine hesitancy in Muslim communities. Halal content/labeling and the influence of religious leaders were identified as major determinants of vaccination choices among Muslims. The core concepts of sharia, such as "preservation of life," "necessities permit prohibitions," and "empowering social responsibility for the greater public benefit" promote vaccination. Engaging religious leaders in immunization programs is crucial to enhance the uptake of vaccines among Muslims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed R Alsuwaidi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | | | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Mohamud Sheek-Hussein
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
- School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Seth R, Dhaliwal BK, Miller E, Best T, Sullivan A, Thankachen B, Qaiyum Y, Shet A. Leveling the Research Playing Field: Decolonizing Global Health Research Through Web-Based Platforms. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e46897. [PMID: 37906225 PMCID: PMC10646667 DOI: 10.2196/46897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Global health research has traditionally been rooted in colonialism, with some investigators in high-income countries leading and managing research and investigators in low- and middle-income countries serving as implementing partners. The Community Health Worker-Led Intervention for Vaccine Information and Confidence (CIVIC) Project, conducted in India and led jointly by India- and US-based investigators, leveraged web-based platforms to facilitate a more horizontal, inclusive, and balanced approach to partnerships between researchers and the community. Using web-based platforms to conduct research was found to be an effective strategy to engage researchers at all levels and combat systemic barriers associated with in-person activities such as power, economic, social, and gender dynamics. Connecting online for research meetings created a more equitable environment for community members to engage meaningfully with research. Further, by conducting research through web-based platforms, we found that we were able to strengthen the diversity of participants, provide a space for more marginalized groups to speak up, and minimize logistical barriers to attendance. Harnessing web-based approaches in research provides a pathway toward opportunities to promote equity and contribute to the decolonization of global health spaces.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Baldeep K Dhaliwal
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Emily Miller
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tyler Best
- Center for Communication Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Alexis Sullivan
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | | | - Anita Shet
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Kumar G, Jena S, Snigdha NT, Basha S, Narayanan JK, Luke AM. Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccines in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050964. [PMID: 37243068 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate the acceptability levels for COVID vaccine(s) in various states in India. Published articles in PubMed/Scopus/Cochrane/DOAJ/the Web of Science that focused on assessing COVID-19 vaccine hesitation/vaccine acceptance using a survey/questionnaire were included. After extensive research, 524 records were found, and after screening on the basis of eligibility criteria, only 23 papers were added to this review. Increased vaccine assumption percentage (>70%) among the population was found in two surveys nationwide (92.8%) and in Delhi (79.5%). For pooled estimates of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and heterogeneity, twenty-three studies (23) consisting of 39,567 individuals reported for acceptance of COVID 19 vaccine in India.. Out of these, 26,028 individuals accepted the COVID-19 vaccine, giving a pooled estimate of 62.6% (95% CI: 55.6-69.4) with considerable heterogeneity (χ2 = 3397.3, p < 0.0001; I2 = 99.40%). The results of this study give a brief insight into the percentage acceptance and hesitancy among the Indian population regarding COVID-19 vaccine immunisation. Future research and vaccine education initiatives can be steered by the findings of this work as a starting point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunjan Kumar
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, KIIT Deemed to Be University, Patia, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Samikshya Jena
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, KIIT Deemed to Be University, Patia, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Niher Tabassum Snigdha
- Paediatric Dentistry Unit, School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kota Bharu 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Sakeenabi Basha
- Department of Community Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jayaraj Kodangattil Narayanan
- Medical and Dental Sciences Department, College of Dentistry, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alexander Maniangat Luke
- Department of Clinical Science, College of Dentistry, Ajman University, Al-Jurf, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Al-Jurf, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
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Soni GK, Bhatnagar A, Gupta A, Kumari A, Arora S, Seth S, Rastogi A, Kanagat N, Fields R. Engaging Faith-Based Organizations for Promoting the Uptake of COVID-19 Vaccine in India: A Case Study of a Multi-Faith Society. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040837. [PMID: 37112749 PMCID: PMC10140837 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mass vaccination, currently the most promising solution to contain communicable diseases, including COVID-19 requires collaboration between a variety of partners to improve the supply and demand and alleviate vaccine inequity. Vaccine hesitancy features in WHO's list of top 10 threats to global health, and there is plethora of disinformation instigating conflict between COVID-19 vaccination drive and religious sentiments. Negotiating public health partnerships with FBOs (Faith Based Organizations) has always been challenging. A handful of faith leaders have always shown resistance to ideas such as child immunization, and family planning. Many others have been supportive on other fronts like helping people with food, shelter, and medical aid in the times of public health crisis. Religion is an important part of life for the majority of the Indian population. People confide in faith-based leaders in the times of difficulty. This article presents experiences from the strategic engagement with FBOs (entities dedicated to specific religious identities, often including a social or moral component) to promote uptake of COVID-19 vaccination, especially among the vulnerable and marginalized communities. The project team collaborated with 18 FBOs and more than 400 religious institutions to promote COVID-19 vaccination and build confidence for the vaccination program. As a result, a sustainable network of sensitized FBOs from diverse faiths was created. The FBOs mobilized and facilitated vaccination of 0.41 million beneficiaries under the project.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopal Krishna Soni
- John Snow India Pvt. Ltd. (JSIPL)-Plot No. 5 & 6, First Floor Allied House, Pocket 10, Sector B, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070, India
| | - Anumegha Bhatnagar
- John Snow India Pvt. Ltd. (JSIPL)-Plot No. 5 & 6, First Floor Allied House, Pocket 10, Sector B, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070, India
| | - Anil Gupta
- John Snow India Pvt. Ltd. (JSIPL)-Plot No. 5 & 6, First Floor Allied House, Pocket 10, Sector B, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070, India
| | - Amrita Kumari
- John Snow India Pvt. Ltd. (JSIPL)-Plot No. 5 & 6, First Floor Allied House, Pocket 10, Sector B, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070, India
| | - Sonal Arora
- John Snow India Pvt. Ltd. (JSIPL)-Plot No. 5 & 6, First Floor Allied House, Pocket 10, Sector B, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070, India
| | - Surbhi Seth
- John Snow India Pvt. Ltd. (JSIPL)-Plot No. 5 & 6, First Floor Allied House, Pocket 10, Sector B, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070, India
| | - Apurva Rastogi
- John Snow India Pvt. Ltd. (JSIPL)-Plot No. 5 & 6, First Floor Allied House, Pocket 10, Sector B, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070, India
| | - Natasha Kanagat
- John Snow Inc., 2733 Crystal Drive, 4th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, USA
| | - Rebecca Fields
- John Snow Inc., 2733 Crystal Drive, 4th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, USA
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