Assessment of COVID-19 Vaccine Knowledge, Attitude and Practice among the General Population in Duhok Province, Kurdistan Region of Iraq: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Given the global significance of vaccinations, particularly in the context of the pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, this study explores hitherto unexplored territory by examining the knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding the vaccines developed to combat the virus. However, following the availability of the vaccines for the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), there is a paucity of information regarding public awareness, attitudes, and behaviours towards the vaccines in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. The research was conducted specifically in the Kurdistan Region of Duhok province, Iraq, and its aim is to provide valuable insights for informed decision-making, tailored public health interventions, and effective vaccination promotion in the region. A retrospective cross-sectional study conducted between 1 October and 1 December 2022 included 759 participants aged between 18 and 75 years. The face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire that covered a range of topics, including sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the vaccines used for the treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The participants, with an average age of 32.95 years (standard deviation±12), were 52.3% male. Approximately 55% of the participants had a history of infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and 25.3% were employed, with 18.3% having chronic diseases. It is noteworthy that 99.60% of participants were aware of the existence of the vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and 68% of them considered it safe. Furthermore, 74.04% of respondents indicated that they strongly agreed with the importance of the vaccine. A substantial proportion (62.58%) held the view that the vaccine was effective in protecting against infection. It is noteworthy that 86.2% of individuals were aware of potential side effects, while 96.31% were informed about the multi-dose requirement for vaccination. The findings of this study indicate that there is a high level of awareness of the COVD-19 vaccine, with 99.60% of respondents reporting that they were aware of it. This highlights the importance of cautioning against the potential risks associated with the dissemination of unprofessional opinions on social media. Regional variations highlight the necessity for the implementation of bespoke communication strategies. It is of the utmost importance to identify the factors that contribute to hesitancy, particularly among healthcare personnel, in order to effectively promote vaccination. It is noteworthy that social media, despite its pervasive use, carries inherent risks due to the presence of unprofessional opinions.

Keywords: Duhok Province; Iraq; KAP; SARS-COVID19 Virus.

Figure 1

Sources information about COVID-19 vaccination

Figure 2

Reasons for unwillingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine