Knowledge, Motivators, Concerns and Brand Preferences regarding COVID-19 Vaccination among Patients and Caregivers in Sibu Hospital

Abstract

Introduction:
The public's knowledge, motivators, concerns, and brand preferences regarding COVID-19 vaccination significantly influence vaccine acceptance. This study aimed to assess these factors among patients and caregivers at Sibu Hospital.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2021 to January 2022. The questionnaire used in the study was adapted from existing literature, with reliability coefficients ranging from 0.779 to 0.856 for knowledge, motivators, and concerns. It was distributed to patients and caregivers visiting Sibu Hospital and self-administered through convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis methods.
Results:
In the study, 409 respondents participated, with a significant majority falling within the 21-30 age range (41.6%). The majority of respondents were Chinese (38.6%) and employed (55.7%). A notable 92.4% of respondents were aware that adults over 18 were eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Social media emerged as the most influential source of information on COVID-19 vaccination (45.2%), and 88.3% of respondents were motivated to get vaccinated because it was available free of charge. Concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine were expressed by 62.1% of respondents, primarily due to its rapid development and approval. Brand preference varied, with Cominarty being the most preferred (53.3%) and CoronaVac following closely at 40.1%. Notably, CoronaVac was preferred more among the Chinese respondents, while Cominarty was favored by others.
Conclusion:
Respondents demonstrated a good understanding of the eligibility criteria for COVID-19 vaccines. The availability of free vaccination strongly motivated them to get vaccinated, despite some expressing concerns about the safety as the vaccines were developed and approved rapidly. Social media emerged as a powerful tool for disseminating accurate information about vaccination, given its perceived influence among respondents.