A BSTRACT Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged in late 2019 and has become a global pandemic, overwhelming healthcare systems and causing millions of deaths. Vaccines were the most effective tool among all implemented preventative measures. Vaccine uptake was influenced by people’s knowledge and attitudes regarding its safety and efficacy. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and key factors affecting vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among the population of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 among adult patients aged 18 years and above in Bahrain using a non-probability snowball sampling technique. Data were collected through self-administered online forms distributed via social media platforms. Descriptive, inferential, and regression analyses were performed. Results: A total of 407 Bahraini adults were included with a mean age of 34.1 ± 14.2 years. Most participants (75.2%) received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. More than half of participants reported that they would accept the vaccine if suggested by a physician ( n = 228, 56%). Moreover, 43% and 55% of respondents were afraid from the immediate and long-term side effects of the vaccine. Results revealed high rates of acceptance and moderate levels of knowledge regarding the vaccine. Acceptance was higher among single participants ( P = 0.037) and those who received the flu vaccine ( P = 0.004). Males ( P = 0.021) and single respondents ( P = 0.006) had significantly higher knowledge scores. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, targeted physician-led educational activities to address vaccine safety and side-effect concerns, particularly among females and married individuals, are advised.
AlAani et al. (Thu,) studied this question.