AUTHOR=Tackie Vivian , Asiedu Christiana , Darkey Ewoenam , Hammond Beatrice , Jailer Linda , Konadu Janet Osei , Cyril Samuel Otieku , Noel Williams Marie , Erzuah Isaac Aidoo 

TITLE=Knowledge, perception, and attitude toward COVID-19 vaccines in the Ho township, Volta region

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Public Health

VOLUME=Volume 13 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1516413

DOI=10.3389/fpubh.2025.1516413

ISSN=2296-2565

ABSTRACT=IntroductionVaccination has emerged as a critical strategy for combating the pandemic and preventing the emergence of new variants. Achieving population-level immunity through vaccination remains essential to reduce disease transmission and protect individuals.ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted, utilizing simple random and stratified sampling methods to select 443 participants. The response rate was 99.5% (441). A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis was done. The study was conducted in July, 2022.ResultsMost participants were female, aged 18–65. Over half showed good COVID-19 knowledge, primarily obtained through media and family. Tertiary-educated respondents demonstrated significantly better understanding. While 53.0% believed post-vaccination infection was possible, 56.1% were willing to be vaccinated, though 53.0% would not encourage others. Nearly 70% would refuse a second dose after experiencing reactions to the first. The statistical analysis revealed that COVID-19 knowledge levels were significantly associated with educational attainment (p = 0.000), ethnic group (p = 0.000), religious affiliation (p = 0.015), and employment status (p = 0.000), but not with gender (p = 0.623) or marital status (p = 0.117). The logistic regression model (p < 0.00) revealed that tertiary education (AOR = 30.204, p < 0.000) and primary education (AOR = 3.466, p < 0.047) significantly increased likelihood of good COVID-19 knowledge compared to no education, while Akan ethnicity (AOR = 0.161, p < 0.012) was also a significant predictor.ConclusionTargeting individuals with lower educational attainment can help bridge the knowledge gap and foster positive attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines, ultimately contributing to effective virus control and improved public health outcomes. The study underscores the need for educational programs to improve vaccination uptake in Ghana, emphasizing adherence to public health measures.