Predictors of COVID-19 vaccination among antenatal mothers in South India

Background: Severe acute respiratory virus coronavirus-2 disease (COVID-19) vaccination among antenatal mothers plays a vital role in preventing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. We attempted to find out the COVID-19 vaccine uptake rate and to determine the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Methods: Community-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted for 6 months amongst antenatal mothers who are residing in the field practice area of primary healthcare (PHC). The participants were selected based on simple random sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted in their house using a pre-designed structured questionnaire after obtaining consent. Results: Amongst 246 antenatal mothers, 82.5% were in the 20-29 years of age group. Only 17.9% of the mothers were illiterates, 88.2% of the participants were homemakers. Majority (97%) belonged to the Hindu religion and more than half of them lived in nuclear families. One hundred and fifty (61%) had taken at least one dose of the vaccine. The logistic regression model was statistically significant (P < 0.05) and had explained 14.2% of the variance in acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine and correctly classified 67.9% of cases. Fear concerning the safety of the vaccine and its side effects was the most commonly reported reason for not taking the vaccine. Conclusion: Targeted interventions to maximise COVID-19 vaccine uptake among pregnant women from ethnic minority communities and those living in deprived areas should be explored.