Covid-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Determinants– An Online Cross-Sectional Survey in Kerala, India

Abstract

Background: Covid-19 vaccination threshold is key to pandemic control. This study aimed to assess the Covid-19 vaccine acceptance and determinants at Kerala, India. Methods: A cross-sectional web- based study was conducted in Kerala, India from April-May 2021. A self-administered online questionnaire consisted of socio-demography, sources of information for Covid-19 updates, and perceptions about the Covid-19 vaccine. Analysis was done for determining the association of sociodemographic factors and Covid-19 vaccination perspectives with Covid-19 vaccine acceptance. Results: Sources of information used for Covid-19 vaccine updates were Government sources (36%), social media (25%), mainstream media (21%), (WHO) World Health Organization (8%), doctors (5%) and peer-group (3%). The most trusted source for Covid-19 information was Government sources. Overall, the Covid-19 vaccine acceptance was 60% (n=93). The vaccine hesitancy was 40% (n=62). Covid-19 vaccine acceptance was significantly associated with healthcare profession, perceived vaccine safety and WHO or Health ministry recommendations. Covid-19 vaccine determinants were found to be vaccine safety and perception that Covid-19 vaccine was riskier than Covid-19 infection. Conclusion: Covid-19 vaccine determinants; perceived vaccine risk and safety, need to be addressed to ensure the Covid-19 herd immunity threshold.

Keywords

• Covid-19
• vaccine
• immunization
• determinants
• acceptance
• hesitancy