Publication:

Motivation on the uptake of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in Calabarzon region, Philippines

Background COVID-19 vaccination is essential for public health, aiming to limit virus transmission and severity of illness. The motivation for individuals to get vaccinated can vary and is influenced by a combination of factors. This study aimed to identify the factors that motivated Filipino residents in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon Province, or the Calabarzon region to get vaccinated with the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.

Methods A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized in this study. Researcher-made survey questionnaires were distributed online through Google forms. Study participants were either fully or partially vaccinated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccines or have received their booster shots. Descriptive statistics were used to examine the extrinsic and intrinsic factors toward uptake of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. The participants’ overall knowledge and attitude were scored using Bloom’s cut-off point.

Results A total of 398 participants were approached from June to July 2022. Participants were 55.3% female, and the majority were 29 years and below (77.1%). Family/friends, lifestyle, government, community, and peers/associates were the extrinsic factors that motivated them to get vaccinated. As for the intrinsic factors, 86.4% showed adequate knowledge and 63.6% had positive attitude towards the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.

Conclusions To have a successful vaccination campaign, both extrinsic and intrinsic factors must be considered when exploring the motivation of local residents to get vaccinated for COVID-19. Family/friends were the primary extrinsic factor, followed by lifestyle, government, community, and peers/associates. Most participants showed adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Focusing on these factors may address vaccine hesitancy.