ABSTRACT

Objective

This study aimed to compare the uptake of vaccination among Healthcare workers (HCWs) and general population (GP), and their attitude and behavior towards SARS-CoV-2 vaccination after the rollout of the vaccination program in Pakistan.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted in Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan from 6th to 26th December 2021. Demographic data and responses to the following questions were recorded; vaccination status, motivating factors for vaccination, any delay in vaccination, plan to get the vaccine, and concerns regarding vaccination in all participants.

Results

A total of 307 HCWs and 344 participants from GP took part in the survey. A higher proportion of HCWs than GP was vaccinated (84.7% vs 74.4%, p < 0.001). a small number of females were vaccinated in the GP group than HCWs. HCWs were comparatively more concerned about blood clotting and vaccine as a marketing strategy of the west. Vaccines unnecessary after infection, religious concerns and vaccines containing micro-chip were more common in GP group. Motivating factors like Institutional requirements and mandatory vaccination for travelling abroad were higher in GP group. More HCWs got vaccinated because of their knowledge about COVID-19.

Conclusions

HCWs had a higher vaccination rate and Vaccine related concerns regarding clotting and financial scam While religious misconceptions, microchips and redundancy of vaccination after infection were more in GP. Motivating factors for GP were Institutional requirements and travelling abroad while knowledge about COVID-19 for HCWs to get vaccinated.

Keywords

COVID-19, Vaccination, Attitude, Pakistan