Hesitancy and Perceptions Regarding Dengue Vaccination Among Educated Ecuadorians

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Dengue cases are rising globally and in Ecuador, with reported cases increasing from 27,906 in 2023 to 57,712 in 2024.
• Factors like socioeconomic disparities, climate change, and vaccine hesitancy impede dengue prevention efforts despite vaccine availability.
• This study investigates Ecuadorian population perceptions and reasons for dengue vaccine hesitancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the perceptions of the Ecuadorian population regarding dengue vaccines.
• To explore underlying reasons contributing to dengue vaccine hesitancy in Ecuador.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional observational study adhering to STROBE guidelines.
• Online surveys distributed via Qualtrics app to eligible Ecuadorian adults (≥18 years, bachelor's degree minimum).
• Statistical analysis included descriptive percentages and chi-square tests (p < 0.05 significance).

Main Results:

• Out of 735 participants, 87.2% perceived dengue vaccines as safe, while 12.8% considered them unsafe.
• Overall willingness to be vaccinated was 75.9%.
• Perceived vaccine safety strongly correlated with vaccination willingness, region, and willingness to vaccinate offspring (p < 0.001), but not education or dengue knowledge/experience.

Conclusions:

• A majority of Ecuadorians perceive dengue vaccines as safe, yet hesitancy persists.
• Targeted educational initiatives are crucial for enhancing dengue vaccine acceptance and improving coverage rates.