The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) is proud to have actively participated in the Zambia Health Research Conference, showcasing critical research on public health issues.

Among the key presentations made at the conference was one by CIDRZ’s Dr. David Singini titled “Investigating the Uptake and Factors Associated with the Uptake of COVID-19 Vaccines Among Health Workers at 6 Hospitals in Lusaka.”

The study delved into the varying perspectives and behaviours toward COVID-19 vaccination across different health worker professions.

The study found that medical doctors and laboratory experts were more likely to receive the COVID-19 vaccine than their counterparts in other professions.

One of the critical insights highlighted in the presentation was the influence of vaccinated health workers on their immediate circles, revealing that those who had received the vaccine were more likely to recommend it to patients, family members, and the broader community, reinforcing their role as vital sources of credible information on vaccine safety and efficacy.

The research further emphasised the importance of crafting tailored health promotion messages for different healthcare professions to address unique barriers to vaccine uptake.

The findings underline the critical role that healthcare workers play in shaping public opinion and health behaviours, especially during a pandemic.