The affecting factors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in parents of children with cancer: A cross-sectional Jordanian study

Abstract

Background and Objective

Children with cancer have higher mortality and morbidity rates than have been reported in general children patients infected by coronavirus infection 2019 (COVID-19). Thus, for children with cancer, COVID-19 vaccination is a priority. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in parents of children with cancer in Jordan.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted during the third quarter of 2022 at the King Hussein Cancer Center in Amman, Jordan. The study employed a self-administered questionnaire, incorporating COVID-specific questions. Participants included parents of children aged 18 years or younger undergoing treatment or monitoring at the center. A straightforward random sampling approach was used to recruit participants. Ethical approval and institutional permission were obtained, ensuring voluntary participation with the right to withdraw.

Results

A total of 409 participants, predominantly female, were enrolled in the study. Notably, most of the enrolled parents did not intend to have their children vaccinated either for seasonal flu or for COVID-19, 76.2% and 78.7%, respectively. The bulk of the parents were encouraged to vaccinate their child by the child's pediatrician (82.9%). Parents' age and their children's age were significantly influenced their willingness to vaccinate their children with the COVID-19 vaccine (p < .001), in which parents' age group 45−54 years and children's age group above 15 years old show the highest vaccination rate. Meanwhile, there was a significant association between children's vaccination with parents suffering from chronic disease (p < .001) and parents receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (p = .014). There are still some concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccine's effectiveness, safety, and whether it is essential for their child.

Conclusion

A large proportion of parents in Jordan are hesitant about the COVID-19 vaccine when considering its administration to their children with cancer. This finding emphasizes the importance of communication and education to address vaccination hesitancy.