scholarly journals COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy and attitudes in Qatar: A national cross‐sectional survey of a migrant‐majority population

Author(s):  
Majid Alabdulla ◽  
Shuja Mohd Reagu ◽  
Abdullatif Al‐Khal ◽  
Marwa Elzain ◽  
Roland M. Jones
Author(s):  
Ying Han ◽  
Qiang Wang ◽  
Shuangyu Zhao ◽  
Jianli Wang ◽  
Shuheng Dong ◽  
...  

Author(s):  
Farah Yasmin ◽  
Waleed Asghar ◽  
Maryam Salma Babar ◽  
Hiba Khan ◽  
Shoaib Ahmad ◽  
...  

Developing countries like Pakistan have previously suffered from barriers to acceptance of vaccination by the public because of financial and belief barriers. This study aims to explore these beliefs and highlight concerns regarding vaccine hesitancy in the general population of Pakistan since they are a hindrance to an effective coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) immunization in the country. A cross-sectional study was performed involving 1,778 participants from all four provinces of Pakistan. Results from the study showed more than half of the participants to be unsure of the safety (50%) and efficacy (51%) of the vaccine, whereas 42% were concerned about the side effects of the vaccine. About 72% of the respondents planned to get vaccinated, whereas 28% refused to do so. Internationally made imported vaccines were more trusted by the participants. Forty-four percent of the participants agreed to receive the vaccine upon recommendation from a physician. Lastly, participants who believed in the efficacy of the polio vaccination also considered the COVID-19 vaccine to be safe and effective.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arumuganainar Suresh ◽  
Rocktotpal Konwarh ◽  
Anand Pratap Singh ◽  
Anand Krishna Tiwari

Abstract The context-specific, complex issue of ‘vaccine hesitancy’ is explicated in terms of delay or refusal of vaccination despite the availability of vaccine services. Although eleven million beneficiaries were administered the COVID-19 vaccine in India from 16th January 2021 till 20th February 2021, however, proportionately a low turnout has been registered in various parts of the country, possibly attributable to hesitance/apprehension towards the current vaccination. In this backdrop, we report the response (collected between Feb 1, 2021 and Feb 15, 2021) of 358 voluntary respondents who participated in an online questionnaire-based pan-India survey, executed to assess their knowledge and acceptance towards the current COVID-19 vaccination program in its first phase. The survey questionnaire consisted of demographic characteristics of the respondents and queries pertaining to knowledge (7 items) and acceptance (3 items). The overall correct rate and the average knowledge score of the participants were 78 % and 5.46 ± 1.4/7 respectively. The acceptance score was 3.50 ± 1.6/5 while 70 % of participants agreed against the 20 % of respondents who neither agreed nor disagreed to take the vaccine. Around 66 % believed that the vaccines, currently being administered in India are safe. Fear about possible side effects (44 %) and inadequacy of comprehensive clinical trial data (29 %), seemed to be the major players in fortifying the vaccine hesitancy among the respondents, exhibiting negative acceptance. Although maximum respondents demonstrated a good level of knowledge (82%) and acceptance (88%), significant differences were observed among some demographic variables. In general, a positive correlation was observed between knowledge and acceptance against a negative correlation, observed in specific provinces. Despite the good acceptance and knowledge, a considerable fraction of the participants (30%) expressed hesitancy. Counselling, mobilization, and feedback from vaccinated individuals about safety should be encouraged. However, due to the limited sample size, we must be cautious when generalizing these findings. Nevertheless, the major elucidations of this study may be utilized in planning vaccination campaigns in further phases.


Author(s):  
Petia Genkova ◽  
Christoph Daniel Schaefer ◽  
Simone Karch

AbstractProceeding globalization and the increase in global mobility entail that a growing proportion of people in economically developed countries have a migration background, so that cultural diversity has become an integral characteristic of many societies. Consequently, national identifications and attitudes towards immigrants are gaining importance in both international and intra-societal contexts. Previous studies revealed that in some countries, including Germany, national identification is associated with negative attitudes towards outgroups. In the present article, the interplay between national identification and intergroup contact is analyzed, with xenophobia as the criterion. The study is based on a cross-sectional survey amongst members of the majority population in Germany. It was predicted and found that the association between national identification and xenophobia is moderated by intergroup contact. There was only an association between national identification and xenophobia in participants with below-average or average levels of contact, whilst for those with above-average levels of contact, there was no significant association. Thus, the results point to the importance of contact experiences as a path to neutralize the effects of national identification on xenophobia, possibly by assisting in a redefinition of national belonging.


PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (11) ◽  
pp. e0248542
Author(s):  
Irene A. Doherty ◽  
William Pilkington ◽  
Laurin Brown ◽  
Victoria Billings ◽  
Undi Hoffler ◽  
...  

Background In the United States, underserved communities including Blacks and Latinx are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. This study sought to estimate the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, describe attitudes related to vaccination, and identify correlates among historically marginalized populations across 9 counties in North Carolina. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey distributed at free COVID-19 testing events in underserved rural and urban communities from August 27 –December 15, 2020. Vaccine hesitancy was defined as the response of “no” or “don’t know/not sure” to whether the participant would get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it became available. Results The sample comprised 948 participants including 27.7% Whites, 59.6% Blacks, 12.7% Latinx, and 63% female. 32% earned <$20K annually, 60% owned a computer and ~80% had internet access at home. The prevalence of vaccine hesitancy was 68.9% including 62.7%, 74%, and 59.5% among Whites, Blacks, and Latinx, respectively. Between September and December, the largest decline in vaccine hesitancy occurred among Whites (27.5 percentage points), followed by Latinx (17.6) and only 12.0 points among Blacks. 51.2% of respondents reported vaccine safety concerns, 23.7% wanted others to get vaccinated first, and 63.1% would trust health care providers about the COVID-19 vaccine. Factors associated with hesitancy in multivariable logistic regression included being female (OR = 1.90 95%CI [1.36, 2.64]), being Black (OR = 1.68 1.16, 2.45]), calendar month (OR = 0.76 [0.63, 0.92]), safety concerns (OR = 4.28 [3.06, 5.97]), and government distrust (OR = 3.57 [2.26, 5.63]). Conclusions This study engaged the community to directly reach underserved minority populations at highest risk of COVID-19 that permitted assessment of vaccine hesitancy (which was much higher than national estimates), driven in part by distrust, and safety concerns.


2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S677-S677
Author(s):  
Marisa Orbea ◽  
Rachel Cunningham ◽  
C Mary Healy ◽  
Julie A Boom ◽  
Claire Bocchini

Abstract Background SARS-CoV-2 vaccine hesitancy (VH) is hindering nationwide vaccination efforts; little is known about caregiver SARS-CoV-2 vaccine acceptance for children. We aimed to identify associations with SARS-CoV-2 VH in caregivers of hospitalized children. Methods We conducted a prospective cross-sectional survey in English and Spanish of caregiver COVID-19 knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and associated VH among hospitalized children 6 months - 18 years at a large pediatric medical institution. Parents were approached daily, averaging 4-5 days/week, from 12/8/2020--4/5/2021. VH was assessed using the Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines (PACV) survey; PACV score ≥50 denoted VH. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used. Responses were categorized. Results 295/307 (96%) of approached caregivers enrolled; 79% were ≥ 30 years, 68% were married/ living with a partner, and 57% had at least some college. 36% identified as white, 19% Black, and 46% Hispanic/ Latino. 53% of caregiver children had public insurance. 91% of caregivers self-reported their children were up to date with routine vaccines. 17% of caregivers were vaccine-hesitant overall. 50% of caregivers were willing to receive COVID-19 vaccine themselves. Figure 1 shows intention to vaccinate their child by PACV score. 65% knew someone who was hospitalized for COVID-19. 67% were scared of their child getting COVID-19. However, 49% were scared of their child getting the vaccine, 28% did not want to vaccinate their child and 27% were neutral in the intention to vaccinate their child. Caregivers who did not intend to vaccinate their child were more likely to be Black (27% vs. 16%, p=0.04) and less likely to be Hispanic/ Latino (33% vs. 49%, p=0.02). Table 1 shows attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine in caregivers who did or did not intend to vaccinate their child. Figure 1 COVID-19 vaccine uptake by PACV score Table 1 Caregiver attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the COVID-19 vaccine Conclusion The majority of caregivers believe that SARS-CoV-2 vaccine will help control the pandemic, but less than half plan to vaccinate their children. A quarter of caregivers expressed uncertainty regarding the vaccine and therefore may be amenable to education and discussion. COVID-19 VH is different from VH towards routine vaccinations. More research is needed to address COVID-19 specific VH. Disclosures C. Mary Healy, MD, Dexcom (Shareholder)Intuitive (Shareholder)Quidel Corporation (Shareholder)Up to Date (Other Financial or Material Support, Honorarium)Vapotherm (Shareholder)


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew Marvin Kanyike ◽  
Ronald Olum ◽  
Jonathan Kajjimu ◽  
Daniel Ojilong ◽  
Grabriel Madut Akech ◽  
...  

Abstract Background COVID-19 is still a major global threat and vaccination remains the long-lasting solution. Unanimous uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine is required to subsequently avert its spread. We therefore, assessed COVID-19 vaccine acceptability, hesitancy, and associated factors among medical students in Uganda. Methods This study employed an online descriptive cross-sectional survey among medical students across 10 medical schools in Uganda. A structured questionnaire as a Google form was sent to participants via WhatsApp. Data was extracted and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2016 and STATA 16. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed. Results We surveyed 600 medical students, 377 (62.8%) were male. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and acceptability were 30.7% and 37.3%, respectively. Factors associated with vaccine acceptability were being female (aOR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3–2.9, p = 0.001), being single (aOR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.1–3.9, p = 0.022). Very high (aOR = 3.5, 95% CI 1.7–6.9, p < 0.001) or moderate (aOR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.2–4.1, p = 0.008) perceived risk of getting COVID-19 in the future, receiving any vaccine in the past 5 years (aOR = 1.6, 95% CI 1.1–2.5, p = 0.017), and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (aOR 0.6, 95% CI 0.4–0.9, p = 0.036). Conclusions This study revealed low levels of acceptance towards the COVID-19 vaccine among medical students, low self-perceived risks of COVID-19, and many had relied on social media that provided them with negative information. This poses an evident risk on the battle towards COVID-19 in the future especially when these future health professions are expected to be influencing decisions of the general public towards the same.


2021 ◽  
pp. 12-14
Author(s):  
Monica Kalyanaraman ◽  
Parameswari Srijayanth ◽  
Srinivas Govindarajulu

Background: Coronavirus outbreak was a highly unpredicted global burden that caused millions of deaths across the world. Vaccination against the infection declines the morbidity and mortality rates. This study objective aims to determine the reasons for the vaccine acceptance. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted through an online survey among the people living in chennai, Tamilnadu. An E-survey Google forms are circulated through the social platforms and email. Excluding the non-response all the data gained was descriptively analyzed. Results: Out of total (n =376 ≥ 18 years) participants majority of them showed High acceptance and got already vaccinated whereas some revealed the fear of vaccine safety and risk effects. Vaccine hesitancy is seen in terms of lack of trust and proper awareness, myths about adverse effects. In addition our ndings positively convey the knowledge of effective preventive measures for infection and proper following of government guidelines. Conclusion: The study outcomes even though shows willingness of the people in receiving the vaccine at some point still a notable interruption is seen. Prioritization should be given to those critical areas to inuence the public perception about vaccine benets because now vaccination is the only essential measure to suppress the healthcare pressure which halts the covid 19 infection.


2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (Supplement_4) ◽  
Author(s):  
A Massimi ◽  
A Rosso ◽  
C De Vito ◽  
C Marzuillo ◽  
V Baccolini ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Pregnancy is widely recognized as a ’teachable moment’ since attitudes and beliefs about childhood vaccines are not completely structured. Among healthcare workers (HCWs), midwives play a pivotal role in the maternal care pathway and should have a key role also in promoting opportunities of discussion and correct information about vaccinations. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey to assess knowledge and attitudes of a sample of Italian midwives towards vaccinations. A questionnaire was designed ad hoc and sent electronically to midwives members of the professional register of Rome. Results Preliminary results on data collected from 140 midwives (mean age 37.32, DS ± 11.61; mean years on the job: 11.94 DS ± 12.78) who completed the survey showed a heterogeneous level of knowledge: only 50% of the sample indicated the correct threshold of vaccination coverage for herd immunity, while safety of multiple shots and of the additives contained in vaccines was reported by 61% and 31% of respondents, respectively. Only 41% of midwives had identified the pertussis vaccine as one of the vaccinations recommended during pregnancy. Attitudes were generally positive: 84% of respondents recognized recommended vaccines as effective and 86% as one of the safest health interventions. However, vaccinations against MMR and Varicella were perceived as useful by 86% and 71% of the midwives, while 89% and 77%, respectively, would recommend them to parents (compared to 96% in case of hexavalent). Globally, 79% of respondents would agree with the introduction of mandatory vaccinations for HCWs in maternity wards. Conclusions Midwives show some gaps in the knowledge on vaccinations. The final results of this study will be used to build specific and tailored training programs directed to midwives involved in pregnancy management. This may help them to transfer the correct vaccination information for the empowerment and the growth of vaccine literacy. Key messages Pregnancy is a strategic teachable moment to influence attitudes regarding childhood vaccinations and healthcare professionals must be trained to be the vehicle of the most accurate information. Specific under- and post-graduate training courses on vaccinations directed to midwives are strongly needed to ensure good level of knowledge on this topic.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lavanya Vasudevan ◽  
Joy Noel Baumgartner ◽  
Sara Moses ◽  
Esther Ngadaya ◽  
Sayoki Godfrey Mfinanga ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Vaccine hesitancy has been recognized as an important barrier to timely vaccinations around the world, including in sub-Saharan Africa. In Tanzania, 1 in 4 children is not fully vaccinated. The objective of this mixed methods study was to describe and contextualize parental concerns towards vaccines in Tanzania. Methods Between 2016 and 2017, we conducted a cross-sectional survey (n = 134) and four focus group discussions (FGDs, n = 38) with mothers of children under 2 years of age residing in Mtwara region in Southern Tanzania. The survey and FGDs assessed vaccination knowledge and concerns and barriers to timely vaccinations. Vaccination information was obtained from government-issued vaccination cards. Results In the cross-sectional survey, 72% of mothers reported missed or delayed receipt of vaccines for their child. Although vaccine coverage was high, timeliness of vaccinations was lower and varied by vaccine. Rural mothers reported more vaccine-related concerns compared to urban mothers; literacy and access to information were identified as key drivers of the difference. Mothers participating in FGDs indicated high perceived risk of vaccine-preventable illnesses, but expressed concerns related to poor geographic accessibility, unreliability of services, and missed opportunities for vaccinations resulting from provider efforts to minimize vaccine wastage. Conclusions Findings from our cross-sectional survey indicate the presence of vaccination delays and maternal concerns related to childhood vaccines in Tanzania. In FGDs, mothers raised issues related to convenience more often than issues related to vaccine confidence or complacency. Further research is necessary to understand how these issues may contribute to the emergence and persistence of vaccine hesitancy and to identify effective mitigation strategies.


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