Broad acceptance of vaccines is vital, especially for emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19. This research examines willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccine and the factors affecting it among healthcare workers (HCWs) and non-healthcare workers (non-HCWs) in Lebanon. An online survey was carried out in November 2020 among Lebanese adults, employing snowball sampling techniques. Respondents completed an anonymous questionnaire in Arabic that addressed sociodemographic details, health conditions, vaccination intentions, and constructs from the Health Belief Model. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to pinpoint predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance separately in HCWs and non-HCWs.
Out of 2802 respondents, 51.5% expressed an intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Healthcare workers demonstrated greater willingness (65.8%) than non-healthcare workers (47%). Factors associated with higher acceptance included older age, being married, residing in urban areas, recent receipt of the influenza vaccine, increased perceived susceptibility and benefits, concerns regarding vaccine availability, and recommendations from health authorities. In contrast, prior vaccine refusal, worries about safety, and fears of side effects lowered acceptance rates. For non-HCWs specifically, female gender, greater religiosity, and skepticism about the vaccine manufacturer's credibility had negative effects. Conversely, solid knowledge of the vaccine, observing public figures getting vaccinated, and intrinsic motivation were positive influences. These factors did not significantly impact HCWs. To boost COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Lebanon and support wider community immunization for effective pandemic management, it is crucial to confront misconceptions and concerns about the vaccine—particularly among non-HCWs—while emphasizing its benefits.
