A Capabilities, Opportunities, and Motivations behavioral analysis of healthcare professionals concerning dengue vaccination in selected countries from Latin America and Asia Pacific.

Abstract

The success of dengue vaccination programs is heavily reliant on endorsement from healthcare professionals (HCPs). This survey of 815 HCPs from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand aimed to identify factors associated with HCPs' willingness to recommend dengue vaccination to patients. Survey responses were mapped to six subthemes within a Capabilities, Opportunities, and Motivations behavioral framework; composite scores were calculated and correlated with willingness to recommend the dengue vaccine. Psychological Capability, Reflective Motivation, and Automatic Motivation emerged as urgent priorities based on moderate correlation with willingness to recommend the vaccine (correlation coefficients 0.50, 0.56, and 0.45, respectively) and moderate scores (57‒58%). Physical Capability was categorized as a critical strength, while Physical and Social Opportunities were lesser priorities. Targeted interventions - including HCP education, risk communication, and peer-led advocacy - are likely to improve recommendation behaviors. Addressing both individual and external drivers is essential for enabling HCPs to recommend dengue vaccination effectively.