Perception of the Lebanese Adults about Vaccination: A Survey

Abstract

Introduction: With the continuous spread and emergence of transmissible diseases, focusing on preventive measures is essential to decrease their incidence and spread. In addition to behavioral measures, vaccination is an optimal way to protect the population and eradicate infectious diseases. The majority are aware of children’s vaccinations, while many might not know that adult vaccinations are also essential. Objectives: This study aims to understand the perception of Lebanese adults towards vaccination and their knowledge and awareness of its importance. This is a national cross-sectional study, conducted between January 2020 and January 2021. Results: the data were collected from 1023 subjects, the majority being Lebanese, previously healthy, and with a graduate or post-graduate level of education. Out of these participants, 44.9% were advised to take vaccines, half of them by healthcare workers. The most common vaccine received during adult life is the Flu vaccine. Overall, 25.6% of the participants were unaware that they needed vaccines and 27.9% thought it is not indicated. Participants’ knowledge about vaccination is variable. In total, 39.4% agree or are uncertain whether vaccines contain harmful chemicals and 48.4% believe that vaccines will trigger diseases. The level of education and occupation significantly enhances knowledge about vaccination. Some participants 27.3% are concerned about the vaccine’s side effects. The group of young participants, graduates, and nonsmokers think that the vaccine is a necessity and had a positive attitude towards vaccination. Conclusions: Many Lebanese lack knowledge about adult vaccination protection and its benefits in the community. It is essential that the country’s health ministry department collaborate with the healthcare system to launch awareness campaigns about adult vaccination in the country to overcome the barriers and ensure better coverage.

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“…Irrespective of nationality, the data underscores that national-level vaccination coverage for the recommended final vaccine dose fell below the desired 95% threshold among surveyed children aged 12-59 months [6]. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon [6,7]:…”

Measles Outbreak in Lebanon: July 2023

“…A study conducted recently about perception of vaccination in Lebanese adults showed that 25.6% are not aware of the need of vaccines and 27.9% thought it is not indicated. 17 Adults have concerns and fear about vaccination products. Around 40% agree or are uncertain whether vaccines contain harmful chemicals and around 50% believe that vaccines can trigger diseases.…”

“…Around 40% agree or are uncertain whether vaccines contain harmful chemicals and around 50% believe that vaccines can trigger diseases. 17 The possibility that nonvaccinated individuals may be clustered together should be considered, suggesting that the estimated vaccination coverage rates do not reflect the status of the general population but rather represent that of a higher-risk subpopulation.…”