.COVID-19 vaccination uptake and associated factors among employees of sugar corporation of Uganda limited (scoul) in Lugazi, Buikwe District.

Abstract

Background With over 200 COVID-19 vaccines in development, medical professionals emphasize the critical role of vaccination in combating the pandemic. Despite the proven efficacy of vaccines, hesitancy remains a significant global threat. By examining the interactions between COVID-19 knowledge, attitudes, and vaccine uptake, targeted measures can be developed to increase vaccination rates and achieve herd immunity. This study investigates COVID-19 vaccination uptake and associated factors among employees of Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited (SCOUL) in Lugazi, Buikwe District Methods A cross-sectional study design using quantitative methods was employed. The dependent variable was, COVID-19 vaccination uptake among employees of Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited (SCOUL), while the independent variables included socio-demographics, individual factors, and community factors. Data were analysed using STATA-14 software, summarizing continuous and categorical variables. Chi-square tests assessed relationships between predictors and vaccination uptake. A multivariable negative log-binomial regression determined influencing factors. Results Only 38.1% of the 381 participants had received a COVID-19 vaccination. Acceptance reasons included high perceived risk, access to work premises, and personal protection. Males were 40% less likely to get vaccinated [aPR 0.60 (95% CI: 0.24-1.50)]. Married employees and those with post-primary education were 1.46 and 1.84 times more likely to get vaccinated [aPR 1.46 (95% CI: 1.04-2.05)] and [aPR 1.84 (95% CI: 1.23-2.74)]. Those with a monthly household income of 500,001 – 900,000 UGX and a moderately high perceived risk of COVID-19 were 1.13 and 2.65 times more likely to get vaccinated [aPR 1.13 (95% CI:0.79-1.64)] and [aPR 2.65 (95% CI:1.05-6.67)]. Listening to or watching radio and TV at least once a week and exposure to government agencies increased the likelihood of vaccination by 3.08, 3.13, and 2.58 times, respectively [aPR 3.08 (95% CI:1.49-5.67)], [aPR 3.13 (95% CI:1.09-6.18)], and [aPR 2.58 (95% CI:1.02-5.15)]. Conclusion The study identified high perceived risk, access to work premises, and personal protection as key drivers of vaccine uptake. Marital status, gender, education, household income, media exposure, and government agency influence also played significant roles. Future research should explore psychological, sociocultural, and economic factors to further increase COVID-19 vaccination uptake among SCOUL employees.