Barriers and enhancers to COVID-19 vaccination among healthcare workers in Zimbabwe.

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination is crucial for healthcare workers (HCWs). Understanding their vaccine uptake and perceptions is vital to promote acceptance.

Aim: This study assessed COVID-19 vaccine uptake, associated factors and HCW willingness to recommend vaccination in Zimbabwe.

Setting: The study was conducted through a cross-sectional survey involving 200 HCWs in seven central healthcare facilities from May 2023 to June 2023.

Methods: Data on demographics, vaccination status, knowledge, attitudes and trust in information sources were collected. Descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression identified factors associated with vaccine uptake.

Results: Of the respondents (female: 68%, median age [interquartile range {IQR}: 34]; [28-43] years), 94% (188/200) had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with 49.5%, 41% and 3.5% having been fully vaccinated, received a booster and partially vaccinated, respectively. Also, 74% of the HCWs would recommend the COVID-19 vaccines to their patients. Out of the total, 15% of HCWs identified that vaccine safety was their major barrier to getting vaccinated. The vaccination rate among nurses and midwives was 9.6% (prevalence ratio [PR]: 0.904; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.833, 0.981) lower when compared to physicians. The study also identified that the booster vaccination rate was higher in older HCWs (PR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.03).

Conclusion: High COVID-19 vaccine uptake was observed among HCWs in Zimbabwe. However, concerns about vaccine safety persist. Targeted interventions addressing these concerns are needed to maximise vaccine acceptance in this key population.

Contribution: This study reveals specific reasons for vaccine hesitancy among HCWs in Zimbabwe.