Evaluation of Vaccine Hesitancy in Tabuk Population, Saudi Arabia
Journal Title: International Journal of Medical Research Professionals - Year 2017, Vol 3, Issue 6
Abstract
Introduction: Vaccine hesitancy is a significant problem worldwide. Recent studies reported an increasing safety concerns and lack of confidence in the vaccination programs. The objectives of this study are to explore the perception of immunization and to investigate the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy in Tabuk population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in five primary schools in Tabuk city, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire about parental perception and attitudes towards immunization was sent with each school pupil, to be filled by one of his parents at home and then to be returned on the next day. The questionnaire responses were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL, USA) version 20. Results: About 7% of the parents decided not to have their child get a shot for reasons other than illness or allergy, and 23% reported a delayed vaccination. About 64% of fathers and 48% of mothers believe that it is better for children to develop immunity by getting sick than by getting shots (p= 0.002). Concerns about shot-induced side effects were higher among fathers (69%) than mothers (54%); p= 0.003. Vaccine hesitancy is not related to gender, educational attainment or parental income. The parents who have safety concerns are more likely to report vaccination delay, missed doses, and wrong beliefs about vaccine efficacy compared to those who are not (p< 0.05). Conclusion: Vaccine hesitancy is a common problem in Tabuk City. Health education programs are recommended to increase awareness of the community about the importance of immunization.
Authors and Affiliations
Waleed Essam Saleh, Saleh Hammad Alhawiti, Omar Atallah Alatawi, Fwaz Hasn Alamri, Ali Meteeb Albalawi, Tarig H Merghani
Keywords
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- EP ID EP548371
- DOI 10.21276/ijmrp.2017.3.6.005
- Views 96
- Downloads 0
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