Perceptions of factors influencing Ebola vaccine acceptance among community members, healthcare workers, and response personnel in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

Ebola vaccine decision-making in Eastern DRC was shaped by complex interactions between institutional mistrust, perceived risk, religion, and access constraints within a broader context of sociopolitical instability. This study provides a critical baseline of perceptions during the vaccine's pre-licensure phase and highlights the importance of locally grounded engagement strategies. As vaccines become licensed, understanding local perceptions as well as leveraging the influence of trusted religious and community leaders will be essential for improving vaccine uptake.