By Michael Kofi Kenetey
A national vaccine perception survey conducted by the National Vaccine Institute (NVI) has revealed strong public confidence in vaccines among Ghanaians, effectively challenging the perception that there is widespread vaccine hesitancy in the country.
The findings show that Ghanaians largely regard vaccines as life-saving interventions.
The survey also found that Ghanaians generally demonstrate a strong sense of collective responsibility toward ensuring vaccine sovereignty and sufficiency for the nation. It highlighted growing national pride and a willingness among citizens to support locally manufactured vaccines once production begins in 2027.
In a press release signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Vaccine Institute, Dr. Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, it was noted that the study covered all 16 regions and 55 districts of Ghana.
A total of 13,905 valid responses were analysed, making it one of the most comprehensive national assessments of public attitudes toward vaccines and locally manufactured health products ever conducted in the country.
Dr. Sodzi-Tettey said the research assessed public perceptions of vaccines, examined drivers of confidence, identified barriers to the acceptance of locally manufactured vaccines, and analysed misinformation trends affecting vaccine uptake in Ghana.
According to him, the findings provide an evidence-based foundation for targeted public education and behavioural change interventions ahead of Ghana’s planned local vaccine production.
The survey findings revealed high levels of vaccine confidence nationwide. About 89.7 per cent of respondents expressed confidence in vaccines, while 94.2 per cent indicated a collective responsibility to ensure vaccine availability.
In addition, 71.3 per cent demonstrated willingness to accept and use vaccines manufactured in Ghana.
These findings indicate that more than seven out of every 10 respondents are ready to embrace made-in-Ghana vaccines once they become available.
The study further revealed exceptionally high trust in healthcare professionals and national regulatory institutions. About 87.8 per cent of respondents indicated trust in doctors and nurses who administer vaccines, while many also expressed confidence in the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to ensure vaccine safety.
The statement noted that this strong institutional trust provides a solid foundation for Ghana’s vaccine manufacturing agenda and positions healthcare workers as key advocates in building public confidence in locally produced vaccines.
