Assessment of determinant factors of willingness to pay for dengue vaccine: multicenter and cross-sectional study in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Abstract

Purpose: Enhancing vaccine coverage among children is crucial to preventing the long-term consequences of dengue fever (DF) infections. This study aims to identify sociodemographic factors influencing parents' willingness to pay (WTP) for future dengue vaccine products in Southeast Sulawesi.

Materials and methods: An observational study design with a multicentred cross-sectional approach was employed, involving 510 parents participating in integrated health service activities (Posyandu) across 5 regencies/cities in Southeast Sulawesi. Data were collected using a modified questionnaire from previous studies, covering sociodemographic factors and WTP for the dengue vaccine. The questionnaire first asked about willingness to pay, followed by reasons if respondents were unwilling. Conversely, for respondents willing to pay, the contingent valuation method was applied, utilizing direct inquiries about the amount they were willing to pay. This involved a bidding technique followed by an open-ended question to determine the exact value respondents were willing to pay for the vaccine. The data were processed and analysed using IBM SPSS version 26. To identify the factors influencing WTP for the vaccine, a χ² test was conducted using IBM SPSS version 26.

Results: The average WTP among parents was IDR 134,686 (USD 8.27), which decreased to IDR 108,108 (USD 6.64) when government subsidies were considered. Five factors significantly influenced the WTP for the vaccine: sex, education level, monthly income, previous experience with the disease, and prior knowledge of the dengue vaccine.

Conclusion: The government and related health institutions need to improve public awareness and knowledge about DF and dengue vaccination.