Assessing risk perceptions that contribute to tetanus toxoid maternal vaccine hesitancy in Kilifi County, Kenya

Background Vaccination is one of the most effective public health interventions today. However, a growing number of people perceive vaccines as unsafe and unnecessary. Methods We used a mixed method research in which we administered a quantitative survey to men and women of reproductive age, held Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with expectant mothers, and interviewed Key Informants (KI) to understand maternal vaccine hesitancy within a rural setting of Kilifi County, Kenya. Results Of the 104 people surveyed, 70% of the participants were aware of the vaccine that expectant women receive, with 26% stating that they know people in their community who have refused or were hesitant to take maternal vaccination. Reasons for refusals include religion and rumours that have spread in the community that the tetanus toxoid vaccine was a family planning method. Stockout of the vaccine was identified as one of the healthcare factors affecting vaccine uptake. Healthcare workers were the most trusted source for information about maternal vaccines. Conclusion Dissemination of accurate information and continuous engagement with community members can build trust and confidence in maternal vaccines.