COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Ethiopia in 2021: a multicenter cross-sectional study.

Introduction: Worldwide, hesitancy to be immunized against SARS-CoV-2 is the most common barrier to reducing COVID-19 incidence. Our study investigated determinants for hesitancy and will be helpful to community mobilizers, health professionals and policymakers.

Objective: To assess the prevalence and determinants of hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccination among patients attending public hospitals in South Gondar zone, Ethiopia.

Methods: A multicenter facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 November to 30 December 2021 to assess the prevalence and determinants of hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccination. Chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression methods were employed using SPSS 23. Significance level was examined using an odds ratio at 95% CI. Multi-collinearity and model fitness were also checked.

Results: A total of 415 participants were included in the study, with a questionnaire response rate of 100%. The prevalence of hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccination was 46.02%. Age of >49 years, rural residency, fear of the adverse effects of the vaccines, myths about vaccine ineffectiveness and poor practices in COVID-19 prevention were the most common determinants of hesitancy.

Conclusions: Despite increased global morbidity and mortality due to COVID-19, the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy is still high. Therefore, it is important to create awareness in highly hesitant groups.