Awareness and Uptake of COVID-19 Vaccines Among the Residents of Bisha in Saudi Arabia

TL;DR

This study examines how aware and willing residents of Bisha, Saudi Arabia, are to get vaccinated against COVID-19, finding high awareness but low vaccine uptake.

Contribution

The study provides insights into factors influencing vaccine uptake in a specific region of Saudi Arabia, highlighting the role of healthcare providers and demographic factors.

Findings

Most respondents received vaccine information from healthcare professionals and family members.

Only 27.73% of respondents had received the first dose of the vaccine.

Vaccine uptake varied significantly by age, gender, education, and other factors.

Abstract

Objective: Even though COVID-19 is no longer in an acute pandemic phase, sustaining awareness and promoting the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines are crucial for preventing future outbreaks and protecting public health. This study explores the awareness and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among residents of Bisha, Asir province. It examines sources of information, healthcare providers' influence, and community engagement initiatives. The findings can inform future public health policies and strategies, supporting efforts to control the spread of the pandemic and enhance community resilience.

Methods: The cross-sectional study was administered to the adult population in Bisha. The study involved a total of 220 respondents. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 27 to obtain essential insights.

Results: Most respondents (n = 204, 92.73%) reported receiving information about COVID-19 vaccines from healthcare professionals, other people, and family members. The study also revealed that only 46 (20.9%) individuals had exposure to COVID-19, with 36 (78.26%) reporting infection before vaccination and only 10 (21.74%) reporting infection after vaccination. Regarding COVID-19 vaccine first-dose uptake, less than half (27.73%) of the respondents had received the first dose. Among those who took the first dose, 29 (47.54%) took the second dose, while 32 (52.46%) did not. It also shows a statistically significant difference in COVID-19 vaccine uptake based on the participant's age, gender, education level, comorbidity, smoking status, and place of residence (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: There was a significantly high level of awareness about the vaccine, with significant proportions of respondents indicating their willingness to take preventive measures even after vaccination. However, vaccine uptake remains below optimal levels, with various reasons cited for non-vaccination, including concerns about vaccine availability, efficacy, and side effects. Healthcare professionals should intensify public education efforts and ensure the availability of vaccines in various forms at hospitals to address this issue.