Demand for COVID-19 vaccines in poor urban settlements in Ghana

Abstract

Now that COVID-19 vaccines are slowly being supplied around the world, the demand for vaccinations becomes crucial. A survey in Accra, Ghana, reveals that 70% of the urban poor is willing to receive a vaccine, similar to most high-income countries but lower than for the average Ghanaian and many other African countries. For the 30% who are hesitant about the COVID-19 vaccine, the fear of side effects is the biggest concern. Residents who are well informed about the COVID-19 crisis and those who trust their government are far more likely to demand the vaccine. Just under half of the urban poor would be willing to pay for a vaccine and 30% are for compulsory vaccinations. Misinformation about the vaccination is limited, but lack of knowledge – especially about the roll out of vaccines – is still a challenge.