Predictors of hepatitis B vaccination uptake among healthcare workers in Benadir region, Somalia: a multicenter study

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant public health issue, particularly in low-resource settings, and poses a high occupational risk to healthcare workers (HCWs). Vaccination is a key preventive measure, yet uptake among HCWs in Somalia, especially in the Benadir Region, remains unclear. This hospital-based cross-sectional study assessed HBV vaccination uptake and associated factors among 611 HCWs in the Benadir Region from July 4 to October 10, 2024. Data were collected via an online self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors influencing vaccination status. Only 25.7% of HCWs were fully vaccinated. Key barriers included lack of vaccine availability (41.2%), absence of mandatory vaccination policies (36.5%), and negative attitudes toward vaccination (63.7%). HCWs in facilities without vaccine availability were 4.1 times more likely to be unvaccinated (aOR = 4.1, 95% CI: 2.56-6.56, p < 0.001). Additionally, those in facilities without mandatory vaccination policies were 1.75 times more likely to be unvaccinated (aOR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.12-2.71, p = 0.012). Educational level and professional specialization also influenced vaccination status. The low HBV vaccination rate among HCWs in the Benadir Region poses a significant occupational risk. To improve uptake, systemic challenges must be addressed by ensuring vaccine availability, implementing mandatory vaccination policies, and promoting positive attitudes toward vaccination.