Resumo

MATOMANE, SM; MACHETE, ML  e  MOTLOBA, PD. Predictors of Covid-19 vaccination intention among oral health professionals in South Africa. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2024, vol.79, n.4, pp.187-190. ISSN 0375-1562.  https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v79i04.17882.

BACKGROUND: Dentistry is regarded as a high-risk profession due to increased levels of exposure to oral secretions, aerosols and fomites that harbour infectious microorganism. Yet evidence indicates poor uptake of vaccines against HBV and, most recently, Covid-19. This study sought to investigate the predictors of Covid-19 vaccination intention among oral health professionals in South Africa. METHODOLOGY: In 2022, a representative national sample of oral health professionals was surveyed using an online questionnaire. Consenting practitioners provided demographic data, information on vaccination history and five psychological antecedents of Covid-19 vaccine. Data analysis was undertaken using SPSS ver. 29.0. RESULTS: Our findings indicate high vaccination intention rate among the OHPs (77.9%), especially those with history of influenza vaccination (OR=2.65, p=0.003). The was a positive correlation between the 5C psychological antecedents (confidence and collective benefit) and intention to vaccinate. Positive Covid-19 diagnosis did not affect vaccination intention. CONCLUSION: Most oral health professionals intended to get the Covid-19 vaccination. For those showing low willingness to vaccinate, psychological antecedent factors such as complacency and calculation should be addressed to improve vaccination intention and uptake.

Palavras-chave : Covid-19; vaccination intention; oral health professionals; 5C psychological antecedents.

        · texto em Inglês     · Inglês ( pdf )