People with Disabilities and COVID-19 in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil: between invisibility and lack of Public Policies

Melo, Douglas Christian Ferrari de; Siqueira, Priscila Carminati; Maciel, Ethel Leonor Nóia; Delcarro, Jessica Cristina Silva; Robaina, Igor Martins Medeiros; Jabor, Pablo Medeiros; Gonçalves, Etereldes; Zandonade, Eliana

doi:10.1590/1413-812320222711.08232022en

Cited by 1 publication

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References 11 publications

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“…Inadequate information on health inequalities has been identified as a distinct gap in strengthening inclusion and equity in COVID-19 responses. [6] The scanty available evidence globally shows lower COVID-19 vaccination rates compared to those without disability [7] amidst higher risk of severe illness and premature mortality from COVID-19 [8].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Behavioural and Social Predictors of COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake among Persons with Disabilities in Kenya

Josphat,

Moraro,

Omogi

et al. 2023

Preprint

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The uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine by persons with disabilities remains largely unknown in low-and middle-income countries. This evidence gap necessitates disability-focused research to inform improvements in access and inclusion in the last mile of COVID-19 vaccination programs and to support future programs for other vaccine-preventable diseases. We aimed to identify behavioural and social predictors of COVID-19 uptake among persons with disabilities in Kenya. This was a convergent parallel mixed method study that involved questionnaires (792), key informants interviews, and focus group discussions among persons with disabilities and key stakeholders (government actors and professional associations). Data were analysed using STATA statistical analysis software (version 14). Chi-square (X2) and Fisher’s exact tests were used to test for differences in categorical variables; multivariate regression analysis was employed to ascertain the factors that influence uptake of COVID-19 among persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Kenya. Approximately 59% of persons with disabilities reported to be fully vaccinated, with significant disparities noted among those with cognition (34.2%) and self-care (36.6%) impairments. Confidence in vaccine benefits (Adjusted odds ration [OR]; 11.3, 95% CI; 5.2-24.2), health worker recommendation (OR; 2.6, 95% CI; 1.8-3.7), employment (OR; 2.1, 95% CI; 1.4-3.1), perceived risk (OR; 2.0, 95% CI; 1.3-3.1), age and area of residence were statistically significant predictors of vaccine uptake among PWDs. The primary reasons for low uptake included perceived negative vaccine effects and lack of adequate information. No association was found between having a primary caregiver and/or assistive device, with COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Subsequent vaccination deployments should map and reach PWDs through relevant institutions of PWDs, and localized vaccination campaigns. Related communication strategies should leverage on behaviour change techniques that inspire confidence in vaccines, and on the credibility and trust in health workers to improve vaccine uptake.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%