COVID-19 Vaccination Intention Associated with Behaviors towards Protection and Perceptions Regarding the Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Rapid COVID-19 vaccine development presents public choice dilemmas regarding efficacy and side effects.
• Vaccine hesitancy threatens herd immunity and comprehensive immunization coverage.
• Assessing vaccination intention is crucial for understanding public health challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate COVID-19 vaccination intention in Greece.
• To examine the relationship between protection behaviors and pandemic perceptions.
• To identify factors influencing vaccine uptake.

Main Methods:

• Anonymous, voluntary electronic questionnaire administered to 3753 participants.
• Study population included healthcare workers, students, teachers, and professors.
• Questionnaire covered demographics, hygiene attitudes, and COVID-19 risk perception.

Main Results:

• 43.3% perceived SARS-CoV-2 as a significant risk.
• Top protective behaviors: avoiding crowds (90.1%), reducing public transport use (86.1%), frequent handwashing (84.2%).
• Lower perceived personal and general risk associated with decreased vaccination intention.

Conclusions:

• Significant COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy observed in the Greek population.
• Further research needed on vaccine benefits and safety to inform the public.
• Healthcare professionals are vital in addressing vaccine hesitancy and promoting vaccination.