COVID-19 vaccine uptake and associated factors among health professionals: a facility-based, cross-sectional study in the Amhara region, Ethiopia

Objectives To determine uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine and identify the associated factors among health professionals in major cities of the Amhara region in Ethiopia. Design Institution-based, cross-sectional study. Setting The study was conducted from July to September 2022 across 40 health centres and 13 hospitals, representing 10 major cities within the Amhara region. Participants 1251 participants, all of whom were vaccine-eligible health professionals, were selected using a systematic random sampling procedure. Outcome measures The level of vaccine uptake in the study was determined by the proportion of health professionals who had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Results 1251 health professionals participated, with 848 (67.8%) reporting that they had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Key findings from the multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that health professionals aged 46 years and older were four times more likely to be vaccinated (95% CI, 1.656 to 9.510), married participants were 1.4 times more likely to take the vaccine (95% CI, 1.010 to 1.933) and those with good knowledge of COVID-19 vaccines were 1.75 times more likely to get vaccinated (95% CI, 1.307 to 2.331). Additionally, participants with a positive attitude towards vaccination were 3.65 times more likely to have received a vaccine (95% CI, 2.753 to 4.732). Conclusions The study reveals a commendable level of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among health professionals, emphasising their critical role in public health initiatives. However, the observed disparities in vaccination rates indicate the need for targeted interventions to improve vaccine coverage, particularly among younger professionals and those with limited knowledge of the vaccine. Addressing these gaps requires the implementation of tailored educational programmes that enhance understanding of COVID-19 vaccines. Furthermore, fostering positive attitudes through targeted campaigns, workplace-based initiatives and peer influence, particularly among younger and unmarried professionals, will be crucial. Encouraging vaccinated professionals to share their experiences and establishing regular follow-ups will also be essential strategies to improve vaccine acceptance and coverage in the region.