Determinants of caregivers' acceptance of the malaria vaccine: The case of Bamenda and Bamenda III Health Districts in Cameroon

Abstract

Objectives: Malaria continues to be a major health burden in sub-Saharan Africa, prompting the introduction of malaria vaccines such as RTS,S/AS01 (Mosquirix™) and R21/Matrix-M to reduce disease incidence. Understanding caregivers' acceptance is critical for successful vaccine deployment. This study assessed factors influencing malaria vaccine acceptance among caregivers in Bamenda and Bamenda III Health Districts of Cameroon. Study design: This was a cross-sectional survey conducted among 1000 caregivers of children aged five years and below, using a structured questionnaire. Methods: Data on socio-demographics, perceptions, sources of information, and vaccine acceptance were collected. Associations between variables and vaccine acceptance were analyzed using Chi-square tests, with significant factors further explored through post-hoc analysis and odds ratios. Results: Overall, 89.6 % of caregivers indicated their willingness to vaccinate their children. Significant factors associated with vaccine acceptability included source of information (community health events vs. social media, p = 0.037; OR = 1.663, 95 % CI: 1.032-2.68), individual perception (very rejecting vs. very accepting, p = 0.000; OR = 0.098, 95 % CI: 0.05-0 0.193), Sex (male vs. female, p = 0.028; OR = 0.704, 95 % CI: 0.515-0 0.963), religion (other religion vs. Christian, p = 0.001; OR = 0.386, 95 % CI: 0.224-0.663), occupation (NGO employed vs. self-employed, p = 0.045; OR = 2.92, 95 % CI: 1.024-8.327). Conclusions: Most caregivers demonstrated high acceptance of the malaria vaccine, influenced by positive perceptions and trust in healthcare sources. However, misinformation and limited awareness remain barriers. To improve vaccine uptake, targeted health communication strategies should focus on enhancing information accuracy, engaging trusted health professionals, and leveraging mobile health tools. Strengthening community engagement and addressing misconceptions are essential to achieving higher vaccine coverage and advancing malaria control efforts, especially in the Bamenda and Bamenda III Health Districts.