Understanding Global and Regional Variations in Intent to Receive the Monkeypox Vaccine

In recent years, the global health community has been paying increasing attention to the Monkeypox virus (Mpox), a severe viral disease with a fatality rate of up to 10% in unvaccinated populations. The World Health Organization has declared it a public health emergency of international concern, and efforts are being made to control and prevent the virus from spreading, primarily through vaccination with the JYNNEOS vaccine. However, the success of these vaccination campaigns hinges on the public's willingness to receive the vaccine. A recent study published in BMC Public Health assessed the global prevalence and regional differences in the intention to receive the Mpox vaccine, providing valuable insights into this critical issue.

The Global Prevalence of the Intention to Receive the Mpox Vaccine

The study included cross-sectional studies from 19 countries, involving 52,658 participants. The primary outcome showed that the global prevalence of the intention to vaccinate against Mpox was 61%. However, this figure varied significantly by continent: Asian countries showed a prevalence of 64%, European countries 62%, American countries 63%, and African countries only 43%. This highlights significant regional differences in vaccine acceptance, emphasizing the importance of understanding these variations in planning effective vaccine uptake strategies.

Healthcare Workers' Attitudes Towards the Mpox Vaccine

Interestingly, the study also highlighted variations in vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among healthcare workers. The prevalence of monkeypox vaccine acceptance among healthcare workers was 58.5%, with hesitancy at 41.5%. Among physicians, acceptance was notably higher at 77.1%, compared to 49% in studies that included all healthcare workers. This underscores the importance of understanding healthcare workers' attitudes and perceptions toward the vaccine, as they play a crucial role in establishing public trust and reducing vaccine hesitancy.

Understanding the Factors Influencing Vaccine Acceptance

While the study primarily focused on regional differences, it also highlighted the importance of demographic factors in shaping vaccine acceptance. For instance, vaccine rejection can be influenced by non-modifiable factors such as age and sex. However, psychological factors, including confidence in the vaccine, perceived constraints, and collective responsibility, also play a significant role and can be targeted and modified to reduce vaccine rejection.

Implications for Public Health Policy

This study has significant implications for public health policy. It underscores the importance of understanding regional and demographic factors in shaping vaccine acceptance and the need for tailored communication strategies that address these factors. Given the variations in vaccine acceptance across different continents, public health agencies need to develop region-specific strategies to increase vaccine uptake. Furthermore, the significant role of healthcare workers in influencing public attitudes towards vaccination means that efforts should be made to address vaccine hesitancy among this group.

In conclusion, the study serves as a reminder that the success of vaccination campaigns is not just about developing effective vaccines, but also about understanding and addressing the factors that influence vaccine acceptance. As the global health community continues to grapple with the challenge of Mpox and other emerging infectious diseases, the insights from this study will form a crucial part of our toolkit for ensuring the success of future vaccination campaigns.