Childhood vaccination hesitancy in Saudi Arabia: A time for action

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aims to assess the health care provider (HCP) perception and knowledge about vaccination and to determine the presence of hesitancy toward it. MethodsAn observational study on HCPs was conducted in King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital (KASCH), Saudi Arabia using a questionnaire. The HCPs were categorized as physicians, nurses, and allied health care specialists with total participants of 344. Results24% expressed disagreement with the vaccination schedule required by the Saudi Ministry of Health and 17% expressed reluctance in recommending or receiving vaccines in general. There was an apparent reluctance toward the influenza vaccination among allied health care specialists compared to nurses and physicians (42.5% vs 6% vs 11.8% respectively, p = <0.0001). Furthermore, 6% of the HCPs stated they believe of a strong correlation between GBS and the seasonal influenza vaccine, and 8% expressed an association between measles vaccine and autism. Years of experience significantly implicated HCP perceived confidence in explaining vaccine safety and efficacy. HCPs with less experience expressed a lack of confidence in the matter compared to their colleagues with more experience (20.9% vs. 10.7%, respectively, p = 0.0262). ConclusionsHCPs’ confidence in vaccination are essential in influencing their patients. Therefore, it is essential to improve the knowledge and awareness of vaccination among HCPs.