Knowledge, acceptance and perception about COVID-19 vaccines in Bangladesh: Findings from a web-based cross-sectional study

Abstract Background and Aims: Vaccination is the only way to fight the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The importance of vaccines has already been established in almost every country. However, the acceptance rate entirely depends on socio-demographic characteristics. This research aims to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and opinion about COVID-19 vaccines in Bangladesh. Methods: We conducted this cross-sectional study from March 1 to March 31, 2021 among 704 persons in Bangladesh 18 years and older. We assessed the level of knowledge, attitude, and opinion of the participants about COVID-19 vaccines. Results: About 95% of respondents were aware of COVID- 19 symptoms, and two-thirds of them believed that it is a treatable disease. Among the respondents, COVID-19-related knowledge differed significantly based on the educational level of the respondents. Respondents with a professional risk of getting COVID-19 were more willing to have the COVID-19 test. Awareness about COVID-19 treatment varies by marital status, profession, COVID-19 history, and professional risk of COVID-19 of respondents. Knowledge about the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines depends on the respondent’s education, profession, and family history. Also, the awareness about COVD-19 vaccination in Bangladesh varies by sex, marital status, education, profession, family history, and risk of infection of respondents. Respondents with professional risk and family history of COVID-19 were more willing to be vaccinated. Conclusion: This research reflects the inadequate knowledge about vaccines but a positive attitude and opinion toward vaccination programs in Bangladesh. Thus, the respective authorities can arrange awareness programs related to COVID-19 and its vaccines for the general population.