Vaccine: X (Dec 2023)
Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination among healthcare workers in an Algerian University Teaching Hospital: A cross-sectional study
Abstract
Background: The global COVID-19 pandemic has deeply impacted health systems, emphasizing the need for effective vaccination campaigns. However, vaccine hesitancy, particularly among healthcare workers, challenges achieving comprehensive immunization coverage. The primary objective of this study is to elucidate the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine uptake among healthcare workers at an Algerian University Teaching Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the University Teaching Hospital of Oran, Algeria, from February 17 to April 11, 2022. We investigated factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake among 196 hospital staff members, including 98 physicians and 98 nurses. Factors independently associated with vaccination were identified using a multivariable logistic regression analysis, and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were provided. Results: The COVID-19 vaccination rate among HCWs was 32.1%. Several factors were significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccination in the multivariable analysis. These include the belief that even healthy individuals should be vaccinated against COVID-19 (aOR = 3.13; 95% CI: 1.13–8.63), the perception that comprehensive vaccination coverage against COVID-19 could support the healthcare system in future epidemics (aOR = 4.15; 95% CI: 1.68–10.23), endorsement of mandatory COVID-19 vaccination (aOR = 4.37; 95% CI: 1.42–13.45), and adherence to all recommended vaccines for HCWs or compliance with the recommended immunization schedules for their children (aOR = 4.75; 95% CI: 1.47–15.36). Conclusion: This study highlights key beliefs influencing COVID-19 vaccine uptake among healthcare workers, including the necessity of vaccinating healthy individuals, the perceived importance of comprehensive vaccination in supporting the healthcare system during future epidemics, agreement with mandatory vaccination policies, and adherence to recommended vaccine schedules.
