Knowledge, attitudes and practices of South African oral healthcare workers regarding COVID-19 and its vaccine

Abstract

Introduction Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a recently discovered virus, responsible for causing Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). COVID-19 is an infectious disease that emerged in December 2019. The virus has infected millions of people globally and continues to affect dental communities worldwide. This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge and attitudes around COVID-19 and its vaccine among South African oral healthcare workers (OHCWs) and also assess their practices around COVID-19. It also assesses the willingness of OHCWs to administer the COVID-19 vaccines in their practices.

Materials and Methods An online survey was designed and distributed to OHCWs across South Africa (SA). It consisted of four sections and the questions were designed to assess the participants’ demographics, knowledge of COVID-19 and its vaccine, attitudes towards COVID-19 and its vaccine and practices regarding COVID-19. The link to the questionnaire was sent out via email and social media platforms.

Results A total of 327 OHCWs participated in the study and the mean age of the participants was 43 (SD= ±12.23; 20-76) years. Majority of the participants (60%) were general dentists. Of the entire sample, 136 individuals had additional postgraduate qualifications and of these, 32% held a Master’s degree and 13% had a recognised specialisation. The private sector employed 57% of study participants and 24% were employed by the academic sector. The knowledge of COVID-19 and its vaccine was combined and then scored. This study found that 60% of the respondents had good knowledge score while 40% had an average score. No one scored poorly regarding COVID-19 and the vaccines. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean age between the knowledge categories (p=0.165). Those with good knowledge had graduated more recently than those with average knowledge. The OHCWs with good knowledge tended to have more diplomas, Master’s and specialties compared to those with average knowledge. Overall, OHCWs displayed positives attitudes towards COVID-19 and the vast majority implemented appropriate infection control protocols at their place of work. Attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine varied as some of the participants displayed concerns around the adverse side effects, among other factors, which led to vaccine hesitancy. More than half of the respondents said they would treat a symptomatic patient prior to referring them for a COVID-19 test. This study included those individuals who were not willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. There were also participants who were qualified to administer vaccines but were not willing to vaccinate the public if authorised to do so.

Conclusion Majority of the OHCWs demonstrated ‘’good’’ knowledge around COVID-19 and the vaccine and an overall positive attitude towards COVID-19 was displayed. The study reported a vaccination rate of 87% with side effects experienced by 58% of participants. The results of the study reported that vaccination hesitancy was prevalent among some of the participants. Preventative measures against the virus have been implemented by most of the respondents. The vast majority of the participants who were qualified to administer vaccines were not willing to vaccinate the public if allowed to do so. Taking the above into account, there were gaps that need to be addressed. Hence, health officials and policy makers should develop interventions to improve these gaps.