Public willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has scattered globally across the world leaving millions infected and hundreds of thousands of dead. Immunization programs appeared to be the only effective strategy to end the pandemic which is achieved when there are high rates of acceptance and coverage. To achieve that, it is important to realize Saudis’ concept and risk perceptions about COVID-19, and acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine. Aim: to assess public willingness and preparedness with their attitude to receive COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted targeting all available population in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from participants using pre-structured electronic questionnaire. The questionnaire included the following data: participants socio-demographic data information regarding covid-19 experience and infection among participants. The last section covered items of participants’ intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Results: The study included 2,227 participants whose ages ranged from 18 to 62 years old with mean age of 31.7 ± 11.3 years old. Exactly 70.2% of the participants were females and 48.4% were single. Exactly 26.2% had chronic health problems. About 60% of the participants reported their agreement to have the covid-19 vaccine if available. The most reported causes for refusing taking the vaccine for those who refused, were fear of side effects (66.7%), followed by fear of safety issue (49.4%), and fear of efficacy issue (32.4%). More than half (57.3%) of the respondents agreed that Vaccination is a good idea because it makes them feel less anxious about getting COVID-19 infection. Also, 60.4% agreed that vaccination reduces my chances of catching COVID-19 or its complications. Conclusions: In conclusion, the study revealed that acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia is somewhat good but not sufficient to have the recommended herd immunity. It is affected by the effectiveness of the vaccine, safety of the vaccine, being taken by others, and history of getting infection or experienced death due to covid-19. Key words: Covid-19, corona virus, vaccine, willing, acceptance, attitude, population, barriers, determinants