Assessment of COVID-19 Vaccination Intention Among Community Health Workers: a Web-based Cross-sectional Survey During the First Wave of the Pandemic in India
Abstract Background: Vaccine hesitancy is of considerable concern as it threatens the great potential of a vaccine against COVID-19. Community health workers (CHWs) bridge the gap between the community and the health care system. Their intention to get vaccinated will not only affect them but will also affect the community’s perception of the vaccine. This study aims to understand the intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19 among community health care workers in India and its determinants.Methods: A web-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 357 community health workers using snowball sampling. A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was shared with study participants across major geographical regions in India through social media during the first wave (November-December 2020).Results: Among 357 community health workers, 208 (58%) responded positively regarding their intention to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Graduate [aOR 2.26 (95% CI: 1.27-4.01), p=0.006] and post-graduate participants [aOR 2.85 (95% CI: 1.43-5.68), p=0.003], those with lower risk perception [aOR 1.86 (95% CI: 1.03-3.35), p=0.038] and respondents who trusted the healthcare system [aOR 2.60 (95% CI:1.59-4.26), p<0.001] were more likely to get vaccinated. Respondents who were exposed to COVID-19 cases were less likely to uptake the hypothetical vaccine [aOR 0.57 (95% CI: 0.34-0.96), p=0.034].Conclusions: Increasing knowledge regarding the COVID-19 vaccine might not be enough to improve vaccine acceptance rates. Enhancing trust among community health workers in the healthcare system and regarding the available vaccines seem necessary. In addition, targeted interventions addressing socio-demographic determinants related to COVID-19 vaccination should help improve acceptance of the vaccine.