COVID-19 vaccine uptake and associated factors among health workers in Kampala city, Uganda

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination is crucial for healthcare workers (HCWs) and understanding their perspectives is vital for promoting vaccine uptake in communities.

Aim: This study assessed factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine uptake among HCWs in Kampala, Uganda.

Setting: A cross-sectional study was done in seven high-volume health facilities in Kampala.

Methods: A questionnaire based on the Behavioural and Social Drivers Model was administered to 200 HCWs. Data were analysed using STATA version 17 to identify associations with vaccination status.

Results: Overall vaccination uptake was 65.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 58.1, 71.8), with 17.7% (95% CI: 12.6, 23.7) having received a booster dose. Concerns about safety and side effects were the primary reasons for vaccine hesitancy. While HCWs generally believed that getting vaccinated for diseases such as measles and tuberculosis can help prevent sickness or death, with 70.5% (n = 141/200) strongly agreeing, only 48% (n = 96/200) of HCWs strongly agreed that vaccination against COVID-19 can reduce the risk of illness or death. Age, profession and facility type were associated with vaccination status.

Conclusion: Healthcare workers in Kampala had high vaccine uptake, but safety concerns remain. Targeted communication strategies from the Ministry of Health are needed to address these concerns and further increase vaccine confidence.

Contribution: This study reveals specific reasons for vaccine hesitancy among HCWs in an African urban setting. These insights inform interventions to improve vaccine uptake in this key population.