TITLE:
Community Knowledge and Engagement in COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts in Dori, the Capital of Burkina Faso’s Sahel Region, Facing Security and Humanitarian Challenges
AUTHORS:
Hamed Sidwaya Ouedraogo, Massoudou Harouna Maiga, Abdoul-Guaniyi Sawadogo, Moussa Bakouan, Moumai Mano, Moussa Yabre, Viviane Ouedraogo, Lassané Kafando, Abdramane Soura
KEYWORDS:
Community, Knowledge, Engagement, COVID-19, Vaccination, Burkina Faso
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Infectious Diseases,
Vol.15 No.1,
February
5,
2025
ABSTRACT: Background: The global COVID-19 crisis significantly impacted socioeconomic structures worldwide. To enhance the response, international authorities approved experimental vaccines, and the COVAX initiative facilitated their distribution to various countries. However, successful vaccination campaigns depended on strong public adherence. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge level of populations in crisis-affected areas and assess their acceptance of the vaccination. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from November to December 2022 in the city of Dori. Data were gathered through interviews and a specially designed survey tool. The collected data were processed using Excel and analyzed with SPSS software version 25. Findings: Among the participants, 91.2% (67 out of 73) were informed about COVID-19, and 93.06% perceived the disease as severe. Communication efforts were made, with radio being the most frequently mentioned source of information on the disease and vaccination. Those who remained unvaccinated primarily cited a lack of willingness, distrust, or unawareness of being part of the priority group. Conclusions: The study revealed a commendable level of adherence among respondents, indicating that further efforts are needed to enhance the role of social media as a communication tool to improve outreach and effectiveness.