Online Survey of the Knowledge and Willingness to Accept Covid-19 Vaccine in Nigeria

Abstract

Francis Enenche Ejeh, Deborah Maigawu Buba, Rine Christopher Reuben, Saleh Mohammed Jajere, Ballah A Denue, Bashir Usman Malgwi and Sarah Adamma Abunike

Achieving complete control over the COVID-19 pandemic hinges on two critical factors: widespread access to vaccines and public acceptance of their use. Understanding the nuances of vaccine acceptance within specific populations is crucial for designing effective vaccination campaigns. We conducted a comprehensive study to evaluate the determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among Nigerian adults from March 2021 till December 2021. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and multivariable regression. We found a positive relationship between respondents' COVID-19 knowledge and their willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines. Overall, COVID-19 knowledge was good, with a mean score of 6.2±0.19 (range 0-8). The COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate was 65.67%. Our comparisons of respondents' age groups and marital status revealed higher odds of being willing to accept COVID-19 vaccines among respondents who were age 50 ≥ years old (aOR 7.35; 95% CI: 1.69-31.93; p = 0.008) and those who were singles (aOR 4.39; 95% CI: 1.86- 10.33; p = 0.001), respectively. However, non-healthcare workers with high income and educational status were unwilling to accept COVID-19 vaccines. The intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine varied across demographic characteristics, level of education, income, and employment status. We recommend continuous public health education on vaccination's vital role in ending the COVID-19 pandemic.

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