Investigating Parental Perception and Intentions Toward COVID-19 Vaccination for Children in Ras Al Khaimah

Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health, critical for achieving population immunity and protecting against infectious diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding parental perspectives and intentions regarding childhood vaccinations became essential. This study aimed to investigate factors influencing parental decisions about COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 3-12 years in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.

A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted between September and December 2022. Data were collected from 366 parents using a structured questionnaire administered via paper-based and online formats. The questionnaire assessed demographic factors, health-related behaviors, parental intentions, and perceptions toward COVID-19 vaccinations. Descriptive statistics and Pearson chi-square tests were used to analyze the data.

The majority of parents (75.4%) reported that their children had received the COVID-19 vaccine. A substantial proportion of respondents demonstrated positive perceptions regarding vaccine efficacy and its broader societal benefits, with 44.3% strongly affirming that vaccination is vital for the protection of both family members and the community. Nonetheless, safety concerns and fear of potential side effects emerged as notable barriers to vaccine uptake. Specifically, 75.4% of parents agreed that COVID-19 vaccines cause severe adverse effects. Key determinants of vaccination intention included parental education level, trust in healthcare institutions, and exposure to misinformation. Additionally, sociodemographic variables such as age, marital status, and employment status significantly influenced parental perceptions and vaccination intentions.

The study highlights the need for targeted public health campaigns addressing parental concerns about vaccine safety and side effects. Leveraging trusted messengers and ensuring culturally sensitive and accessible vaccination services are critical for improving childhood COVID-19 vaccination rates. Future research should explore longitudinal trends and the evolving impact of misinformation on parental decision-making. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and healthcare providers to enhance vaccine uptake and protect children's health.