COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in a Rural Community of Nigeria

Introduction: Vaccine hesitancy is a major challenge to public health, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This research was aimed at examining COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the Idumebo Community, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria, to understand the factors influencing vaccine acceptance and refusal. Objective: The primary objective of this research was to determine the level of knowledge, uptake, and reasons for vaccine hesitancy among residents of Idumebo, Irrua Edo State. By exploring these factors, the study aimed to provide insights that can inform targeted interventions to improve vaccine acceptance rates in the community. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done among residents of age 18-60 years in Idumebo, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather data on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of COVID-19, and attitudes towards vaccination. Ethical considerations were prioritized, with institutional and community consent obtained before data collection. Results: The findings showed a high degree of awareness of COVID-19 among participants, with a majority acknowledging the contagious nature of the disease. However, vaccine hesitancy was observed among a subset of respondents, with reasons ranging from concerns about safety and efficacy to misinformation and mistrust. These results underscore the need for targeted educational campaigns and community engagement to address vaccine hesitancy effectively. Conclusion: It was concluded that the study brought to light the complex dynamics of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the Idumebo Community, revealing the necessity of tailored interventions to address barriers to vaccine acceptance. By fostering a better understanding of community attitudes and concerns, public health authorities can develop strategies to enhance vaccine uptake and combat the spread of COVID-19 in the region.