Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors of Healthcare Workers Working in Malatya Towards COVID-19 Vaccines

Abstract Background The rapid production of vaccines and the introduction of new vaccine technologies have raised concerns among some individuals regarding anti-vaccination, while others have expressed worries about vaccines. Given that healthcare professionals’ recommendations significantly influence people’s vaccination decisions, this study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of healthcare professionals working in family health centers towards COVID-19 vaccines. Methods Questionnaires for this descriptive cross-sectional study were administered between February and April 2022. The population comprised 408 health workers employed in family health centers in Malatya, with 292 individuals completing the study. The questionnaire included questions about sociodemographic, COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccines and the COVID-19 Fear Scale. Results Although 97.3% of the research group reported having received the COVID-19 vaccination, 47.9% expressed concerns about these vaccines. The median score of the COVID-19 Fear Scale was 15 (7.00-35.00). 86.6% of the participants indicated that they recommended COVID-19 vaccines. 16.4% of the participants agreed with the statement ‘there are no studies proving the safety of vaccines,’ and 49% agreed that ‘vaccines pass through clinical trials quickly and are put on the market’. Those who did not recommend COVID-19 vaccines, those who agreed with the statement ‘there are no studies proving the safety of vaccines’ and those who agreed with the statement ‘vaccines pass through clinical trials quickly and are put on the market’ were concerned about COVID-19 vaccines with their level of concern significantly higher (p < 0.05). Conclusions Almost all members of the research group had received the COVID-19 vaccine, yet almost half of them expressed concerns about vaccines. Those who do not recommend vaccines, those who believe they are released quickly, and those who have safety concerns are more likely to be concerned. Key messages • Identify the reasons for health workers’ concerns about vaccines and provide remedial interventions for concerns that may arise regarding other vaccines. • It should be ensured that healthcare professionals, who are expected to be role models for society in terms of immunization, possess scientific and up-to-date knowledge on vaccines.