Acceptability of covid-19 vaccination by the youths in Kawempe division, Kampala City

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the acceptability levels of COVID-19 vaccination among the youths in Kawempe Division, and suggest measures to promote COVID-19 vaccination among the youths in an urban setting. The study sought to investigate the level of knowledge and awareness of COVID19 among the youth, find out their level of acceptability of covid19 vaccination, and establish factors that influence acceptability of COVID-19 vaccination among youths. The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Data was collected using structured questionnaires administered on the youths and a key informant guide, which was administered community leaders and healthcare workers. All the study participants (100%; n=115) revealed that they had heard about COVID19, but at different times. The study findings revealed a high level of awareness about COVID-19 vaccination programs. All the youths respondents noted that they had been sensitized about COVID 19 vaccination. More than two-thirds (35.7%) of the youths had obtained information regarding COVID 19 from televisions, followed by 30.4% from radios. Slightly over a half of the respondents (51%) of participants knew about some COVID 19 vaccine More than half of the sampled youths (72.2%) were vaccinated against COVID 19; implying a high level of acceptability. Despite this this high level of acceptability, the correct knowledge about vaccines for COVID 19 was low coupled with some misconceptions. It is, therefore, recommended that Government and development partners keep on supporting campaigns for vaccine awareness to allay pockets of fear and existing misconceptions about the COVID 19 vaccines.