World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

ANALYSIS OF THE ACCEPTABILITY OF THE MALARIA VACCINE RTS, S/AS01 AMONG PARENTS OF CHILDREN AGED 0-5 YEARS IN HOSPITAL FACILITIES IN DOUALA, CAMEROON

Nzalibeh Etoa Victoire*, Bita Fouda Andre Arsene, Tanga Tanga Regis Severin* and Ida Penda Calixte

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Malaria remains a major public health problem, with 249 million cases recorded worldwide, 94% of them in Africa. In Cameroon, more than 3.3 million cases were confirmed in 2023. Despite prevention efforts, the incidence among children under 5 remains high. The RTS, S /AS01 malaria vaccine, recently introduced in the country, aims to reduce morbidity and mortality. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2024 in three hospitals in Douala. Parents of children aged 0-5 years attending pediatric and immunization services were included. Sociodemographic data, knowledge of malaria and vaccination, and factors influencing vaccine acceptability were analyzed using SPSS version 2.6 software. Results: Of 397 participants, 56.2% agreed to vaccinate their children against malaria, 27% refused and 16.9% were undecided. Fear of side effects (75%) and lack of trust in laboratories (12.1%) were the main obstacles. Factors favoring acceptability included confidence in vaccine efficacy (OR = 8.14, p = 0.004) and in health authorities (OR = 8.00, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Vaccine acceptability is moderate. Targeted awareness-raising and education campaigns are essential to reinforce information about the vaccine and increase its uptake within communities.

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