The perception of COVID-19 vaccine among Dental Professionals in Pakistan.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify the perceptions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine among dental professionals in Pakistan.

Methodology: A cross-sectional, web-based anonymous survey was commenced using an online questionnaire, which was distributed to dental professionals working at different hospitals throughout the country. The survey assessed the participant in two sections. The first section inquired about general information about the patient, including demographic background, self-perceived health status, and COVID-19 experience of the participants. Secondly, the questionnaire probed perceptions about COVID-19 and its vaccination, including their susceptibility to COVID-19, perceived severity of the infection, perceived barriers to getting vaccinated, and cues to action. Participants were also asked to rate their level of confidence in using the foreign-manufactured COVID-19 vaccine.

Results: With a response rate of 72%, the results showed that of the total respondents, 38.96% agreed and 28.54% strongly agreed that they would take the COVID-19 vaccine if they were given adequate information about it. Furthermore, the majority of respondents agreed to get vaccinated if their institution made it mandatory to get them vaccinated. Both males and females believed that the vaccine decreased their chances of getting infected.

Conclusion: The results of the current study have demonstrated that a significant proportion of the study sample is willing to get vaccinated if they are given adequate information about the vaccine. Furthermore, numerous individuals raised concerns over the efficacy of vaccines and their potential immediate and late adverse effects. There is a fundamental need to raise consciousness at a mass level about the severity of the COVID-19 infection, the significance of vaccination, and its safety, effectiveness, and viability. The government should assemble religious and social elements to gain public trust and address the concerns of the population.