Uptake of covid-19 vaccination among the elderly in Rwampara district south-western Uganda

Abstract

Background: The study was designed to understand the uptake of COVID 19 vaccination among the elderly in western Uganda specifically in Rwampara district. Objectives: The specific objectives were; to describe COVID 19 vaccination seeking patterns among the elderly in Rwampara, to determine factors influencing vaccine uptake amount elderly in Rwampara district and to assess the role of stakeholders in encouraging vaccination among the elderly. Methods: The study adopted a quantitative approach to collect data from 15 participants (elderly above 65 years old) and 4 key informants; the chairman LC1 Butahe village, DHO, one Doctor and 1District COVID 19 task force - general secretary using interview guides and key informant guides. The study used purposive and snow ball sampling non-probability sampling technics Findings: The study found out that both personal and environmental factors influence the uptake levels of COVID 19 vaccination amount the elderly in Rwampara. Conclusion and Recommendation: Majority of the respondents recommended elimination of factors that hinder vaccination of the elderly against COVID 19 through encouraging all the relevant stakeholders in line with COVID 19 play their respective roles effectively and efficiently.