COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Related Factors among Citizen of Chon Daen District, Phetchabun Province, Thailand

Abstract

Outbreaks of emerging diseases, such as COVID-19, represent a significant public health challenge, particularly with regard to deploying vaccines to prevent severe illness and death. The coverage of these vaccines has been low due to vaccine hesitancy. Despite the availability of vaccination services, hesitancy to accept or refuse vaccination remains a considerable issue. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess and investigate factors related to vaccine hesitancy concerning COVID-19 among the population in Chon Daen District, Phetchabun Province. Data were collected using a questionnaire from a sample size of 565 people from January to April 2023. The data were analyzed using percentages, means, standard deviations, and relationships between variables were examined using Chi-Square statistics and multiple logistic regression, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. The study found that 47.4% of the samples exhibited hesitancy in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, with 88.4% seeking additional information before making a decision. Factors associated with vaccine hesitancy included low confidence in the vaccine (adjusted OR=1.89, 95% CI: 1.20-2.99) and moderate to high levels of communication and media environment (adjusted OR=2.81, 95% CI: 1.91-4.13). Therefore, healthcare professionals providing vaccines for emerging diseases in the area should focus on building confidence through effective communication about the characteristics and necessity of vaccines. This could be achieved by creating informative materials and public awareness campaigns regarding vaccines and the diseases they prevent. Additionally, it is important to monitor misinformation and prevent confusion by providing accurate information about vaccines to reduce vaccine hesitancy among the population and enhance the effectiveness of vaccination measures against emerging diseases.