ABSTRACT
Background The COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread throughout the world causing serious morbidity and mortality. healthcare professionals (HCP) are on the front line in the face of this pandemic and are identified as priorities for COVID-19 vaccination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability rate of the COVID-19 vaccination among HCP and to identify their predisposing factors. Methods This was a cross-sectional study using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire including a randomized sample of (HCP) at the university hospitals of Southern Tunisia on April 2021. Results Overall, 223 cases were females (74.4%). The average age was 29.5 years ±8.26. In total, 178 HCP were doctors (59.3%), 147 HCP (49%) were working in medical services and 58 HCP (19.3%) were in intensive care units. The vaccination acceptance rate was 65.3% (196), while 73 cases (24.3%) were reluctant. Factors statistically associated with vaccine acceptability were female gender (Odds ratio (OR)=2.9;p=0.001), advanced age (30.23±8.27 vs 28.09±8.12;p=0.034), urbanity of residence (OR = 4.5;p<0.01) and direct contact with positive COVID-19 patients (OR = 1.9;p=0.007). Compared to paramedical staff, doctors were more willing to be vaccinated (OR = 4;p<0.01). Belief in the efficacy of the vaccine as effective with few adverse effects (OR = 2.04;p<0.01), as protective against the virus (OR = 4.5;p<0.01) as well as the only solution to stop the pandemic (OR = 2.6;p<0.01) and to decrease serious complications of the disease (OR = 28;p<0.01) were statistically associated with vaccination acceptance. Conclusions This original study revealed a relatively reasonable acceptance rate for vaccination against covid-19. Socio-demographic, cultural and professional factors predisposing to the willingness to be vaccinated were highlighted. Thus, planning vaccination campaigns to raise awareness of the efficacy and the safety of vaccine is strongly recommended to promote vaccination in the general population. Key messages This original study revealed a relatively reasonable acceptance rate for vaccination against covid-19. Socio-demographic, cultural and professional factors predisposing to the willingness to be vaccinated were highlighted.