Acceptability of Covid-19 Vaccination During the Pandemic in Garoua, Cameroon (Sub-Saharan Africa)

Background: Community perception of a vaccine is a key factor in its acceptance.The aim of this study was to assess the acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine in Garoua II. Materials and methods:A cross-sectional study after three-stage multi-stratified sampling was carried out in January 2021.The information collected focused on knowledge, attitudes, practices, and acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine.Logistic regression was used to identify the determinants.Results: Of the 1000 heads of households surveyed, with a median age (25th-75th percentile) of 46 (35-58) years, 33.9% were women.Half of our population had a low level of education and 73% were married or in a relationship.For knowledge, 98.6% had already heard of COVID-19 and 76% were aware of the barrier measures.As for the practice, 39.6% had a device for washing and 48.5% recently attended a gathering of more than 50 people.Only 54.2% were in favor of vaccination against COVID-19.The main reason for the non-acceptability vaccine was distrust in this vaccine at 90.7%.The determinants [Odds ratio (95% CI)] of vaccine non-acceptability were university level of education [1.577 (1.003-2.480),p = 0.048]; the presence of a hand washing device in the yard [1.513 (1.157-1.978),p = 0.002]; and supply of running water [2.499 (1.215-5.140),p = 0.013]. Conclusion:The anti-COVID-19 vaccination is accepted by half of the population of Garoua II.The determinants of non-acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine are university level of education, presence of a hand washing device and supply of running water.