“Preventing COVID-19 in Gaza is critical, as ongoing war has severely damaged the territory’s health infrastructure. COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe disease and mortality and are key to reducing excess deaths, especially with limited healthcare access. Achieving high vaccination rates, particularly among vulnerable groups, is essential.
Two population-based cross-sectional surveys conducted by International Medical Corps revealed critical insights into vaccination trends and hesitancy. In October 2021, 49% of adults had received at least one vaccine dose, while one-third were hesitant. Factors such as age, gender, education, and trusted information sources shaped vaccination decisions. These findings guided outreach activities under a USAID-funded COVID-19 response project implemented by IMC alongside local partners between October 2021 and April 2023.
By March 2023, vaccine coverage had risen to 63.5%, but hesitancy remained high, especially among the unvaccinated, with mistrust in vaccine safety as a major barrier. Health workers emerged as pivotal influencers, with individuals referred by health workers being four times more likely to be vaccinated. Those receiving vaccine information from health workers were significantly less likely to be hesitant.
Future strategies must focus on addressing disparities in coverage, particularly among women, younger adults, those with less education, and urban populations. Building the capacity of health workers, including community health workers, and tailoring outreach efforts are vital to improving vaccination rates.
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2021
End Date:2024
Partners:- USAID Office of Global Health
- International Medical Corps