Moses Ocan, Maureen Katusiime, Daniel Kyabayinze, Benon Kwesiga, Rodgers Ayebare, Suzan Nakasendwa, Leah Mbabazi, Henry K Bosa, Hellen Nansiiro, Daphine Sanger, Mordecai Tayebwa, Boniconsilli Tusiime, Agnes Kiragga, Francis Kakooza, Elizabeth Gonese, Tamrat Shaweno, Nebiyu Dereje, Mosoka P Fallah, Alex R Ario
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination is crucial for healthcare workers (HCWs) and understanding their perspectives is vital for promoting vaccine uptake in communities.
Aim: This study assessed factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine uptake among HCWs in Kampala, Uganda.
Setting: A cross-sectional study was done in seven high-volume health facilities in Kampala.
Methods: A questionnaire based on the Behavioural and Social Drivers Model was administered to 200 HCWs. Data were analysed using STATA version 17 to identify associations with vaccination status.
Results: Overall vaccination uptake was 65.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 58.1, 71.8), with 17.7% (95% CI: 12.6, 23.7) having received a booster dose. Concerns about safety and side effects were the primary reasons for vaccine hesitancy. While HCWs generally believed that getting vaccinated for diseases such as measles and tuberculosis can help prevent sickness or death, with 70.5% (n = 141/200) strongly agreeing, only 48% (n = 96/200) of HCWs strongly agreed that vaccination against COVID-19 can reduce the risk of illness or death. Age, profession and facility type were associated with vaccination status.
Conclusion: Healthcare workers in Kampala had high vaccine uptake, but safety concerns remain. Targeted communication strategies from the Ministry of Health are needed to address these concerns and further increase vaccine confidence.
Contribution: This study reveals specific reasons for vaccine hesitancy among HCWs in an African urban setting. These insights inform interventions to improve vaccine uptake in this key population.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Public Health in Africa (JPHiA) is a peer-reviewed, academic journal that focuses on health issues in the African continent. The journal editors seek high quality original articles on public health related issues, reviews, comments and more. The aim of the journal is to move public health discourse from the background to the forefront. The success of Africa’s struggle against disease depends on public health approaches.