Predictors of COVID-19 vaccination refusal among Tunisian healthcare personnel

Introduction: Healthcare personnel (HCP) are at the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic and are recognized as a priority target group for COVID-19 vaccines. However, the acceptance or refusal of vaccination among HCP is debated. Objectives: To investigate the prevalence and the predictors of COVID-19 vaccination refusal among Tunisian HCP. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted using an anonymous online survey among Tunisian HCP from 7 to 21th of January 2021. Primary endpoints were the intention to decline vaccination against COVID-19 if a vaccine was available. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the factors associated with the intention to decline the COVID-19 vaccination. Results: Of the 546 responses, 493 were retrieved. Among included HCP, 292 (59.2%) were physicians, 53 (10.8%) were paramedical personnel, 70 (14.2%) were pharmacists and 78 (15.8%) were dentists. Overall, 62 of 493 HCP (12.6%) stated their intention to refuse vaccination. Logistic regression analysis revealed that being aged more than 40 years-old was a predictor of COVID-19 vaccination refusal among HCP with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 2 (95%CI: 1.2-3.6). A history of vaccination against influenza during the current season and the use of television as a source of information about COVID-19 vaccination predicted a lower risk of refusing COVID-19 vaccination with AORs of 0.2(95%CI: 0.1-0.4) and 0.5 (95%CI: 0.3-0.8) respectively. Conclusion: The current information campaign about COVID-19 vaccination should be reinforced among Tunisian HCP. Older ones may be involved in this campaign as leaders. The use of the official media seems to be a good communication channel for this campaign.