Post-COVID 19 Assessment on Perceptions, Acceptance, and Attitudes Towards COVID-19 Vaccines: A Case of Papua New Guinea

This study investigates the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Papua New Guinea (PNG) through a comprehensive analysis of demographic characteristics, attitudes toward vaccines, and predictors of acceptance. The study surveyed 724 participants, revealing that the majority were younger adults (29.83% aged 21-30 years and 40.88% aged 31- 40 years), predominantly male (74.03%), and employed (81.08%). Educational backgrounds were diverse, with 84.53% holding non-health-related degrees. Health insurance coverage was low, with 29.28% lacking insurance, and 65.47% were non-smokers. Notably, 66.02% reported exposure to or infection with COVID-19, though only 10.22% had tested positive. The study found significant distrust in vaccine information sources, with medical providers and scientific articles being the most trusted. Concerns about vaccine side effects were prominent, with 30.80% of participants strongly agreeing that side effects were a major barrier to vaccination. Attitudes toward vaccines were mixed: while 31.49% acknowledged the importance of vaccination, 62.98% expected widespread refusal once vaccines were licensed in PNG. Distrust extended to pharmaceutical companies and the government's ability to provide free vaccines, with 62.57% doubting the government's commitment to free vaccine distribution. Regression analysis identified several key predictors of vaccine acceptance. A higher willingness to pay for the vaccine and greater concern about COVID-19 positively correlated with increased vaccine acceptance. In contrast, being married and having children were negatively associated with vaccine uptake. These findings underscore the complex landscape of vaccine acceptance in PNG, highlighting the need for targeted public health strategies to address misinformation and alleviate concerns about side effects. Enhancing trust in reliable sources and addressing barriers related to personal circumstances are essential for improving vaccine acceptance in the region.