Knowledge, Attitude and Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccine among General Population in South India

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has affected globally causing loss of life and livelihood. Several vaccines have been approved against coronavirus disease and distributed in different regions. However, general community knowledge, attitude and acceptance towards COVID-19 vaccinations are poorly understood. Thus, the study aimed to investigate community knowledge, attitude and acceptance towards COVID-19 vaccinations in South India. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge, attitude and acceptance regarding COVID-19 vaccination and to improve and increase vaccination coverage and completeness. Results: A total of 742 participants were enrolled in this study. Most of the respondents (42.58%) were aged between 18-30 years and 32.88% were in the 30-60 years group. Majority of them said they will get vaccinated as early as possible (52.02%) and 20.75% will delay the vaccination. 93.36% participants think that vaccines should be available free of cost and 48.51% are not ready to afford the vaccine at their own expense if it is not provided free of cost by the government. 53.63% participants are concerned about the safety and efficacy. Conclusion: The most important factor for vaccine hesitancy is the occurrence of mild or serious adverse effects following immunization. The present study revealed inadequate knowledge and positive attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccinations. The findings suggest immediate health education programs and more accurate information should be distributed and advertised by respective health authorities.