Acceptability of Covid-19 Vaccination During the Pandemic in Garoua, Cameroon (Sub-Saharan Africa)

Background: Community perception of a vaccine is a key factor in its acceptance. The aim of this study was to assess the acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine in Garoua II.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study after three-stage multi-stratified sampling was carried out in January 2021. The information collected focused on knowledge, attitudes, practices, and acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine. Logistic regression was used to identify the determinants.

Results: Of the 1000 heads of households surveyed, with a median age (25th-75th percentile) of 46 (35-58) years, 33.9% were women. Half of our population had a low level of education and 73% were married or in a relationship. For knowledge, 98.6% had already heard of COVID-19 and 76% were aware of the barrier measures. As for the practice, 39.6% had a device for washing and 48.5% recently attended a gathering of more than 50 people. Only 54.2% were in favor of vaccination against COVID-19.

The main reason for the non-acceptability vaccine was distrust in this vaccine at 90.7%. The determinants [Odds ratio (95% CI)] of vaccine non-acceptability were university level of education [1.577 (1.003-2.480), p = 0.048]; the presence of a hand washing device in the yard [1.513 (1.157-1.978), p = 0.002]; and supply of running water [2.499 (1.215-5.140), p = 0.013].

Conclusion: The anti-COVID-19 vaccination is accepted by half of the population of Garoua II. The determinants of non-acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine are university level of education, presence of a hand washing device and supply of running water.

Keywords: COVID-19, Vaccination, Acceptability, Garoua, Cameroon.