Assessing COVID-19 Perceptions, Practices and Vaccine Reluctance Amongst Dental Students and Dentists in Karachi – A Mixed Method Study

Abstract

Objectives: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has posed a global threat to the lives of many. This mixed-methods study aimed to assess the parameters of knowledge, attitude, and practices concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, along with vaccine hesitancy among the dental fraternity of Karachi, Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 300 dentists, dental students, and faculty of selected dental facilities and institutes in Karachi, Pakistan, from March 2021 to April 2021. A close ended questionnaire evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice towards COVID-19. Results were assessed using a scoring system, and a chi-squared test was performed to detect significant (p < 0.05) differences among various variables. To explore the reasons behind the observed attitudes and practices, as well as vaccine hesitancy, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subset of 21 respondents, selected using purposive sampling. The interview guide was developed to probe participants' understanding of COVID-19, their experiences and challenges in adhering to protocols, and their perceptions and concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine.All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: More than 80% of respondents displayed good knowledge regarding the mode of transmission, diagnostic methods, and symptoms of COVID-19. Less than 50% believed they had adequate training and protocols to treat the affected patients. COVID-19 guidelines on a personal level, like masking and distancing, were followed by almost 90% of the respondents. Several themes emerged from the interviews, including fear and anxiety related to contracting the virus, concerns about the efficacy and safety of the vaccine, perceived lack of support and resources to follow guidelines and scepticism about the government's handling of the pandemic.

Conclusion: We found that the subjects had adequate awareness of COVID-19, but their belief in the government's health policy was negligible. The qualitative findings shed light on the factors contributing to these attitudes and behaviours, including fear, lack of resources, and distrust. Policies should be implemented to improve practices, address fears and misinformation, and enhance the dental fraternity's contribution to the fight against the pandemic.