Assessment of worries and attitudes towards the COVID-19 pandemic and the vaccine among Tunisian elderly

Abstract

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic poses a threat particularly to the elderly. Although the current vaccination strategy is recognized as an adequate measure to reduce mortality, it still raises concerns about its efficacy and safety.

Objectives

Assessment of worries and attitudes among Tunisian elderly towards the pandemic.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study on a sample of 50 consultants in a geriatric service, aged between 65 years and over. A questionnaire was formulated based on the recommendations of WHO and INEAS.

Results

The average age of our population is 74.6 years. The participants were mainly female, retired (76%) and with low educational attainment. Most of the elderly reported that they respected the wearing of the mask in public (90%) and washing their hands regularly (92%). Social distancing was respected by only 44% of the participants. Concerning the vaccine registration, we noted that 48% of the subjects expressed their willingness to register on the Evax.tn platform. On the other hand, 15 people expressed their refusal to receive the anti-Covid vaccine. We noted that only 22% had a dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. Only 4% of the respondents did not have concerns about new variants of the virus. About half (52%) of the subjects expressed significant concern about an increased risk of virulence and mortality due to the new variant. Vaccination was considered ineffective by most of the participants (70%).

Conclusions

Addressing worries about vaccine would be an important step to accept it among Tunisian elderly. Adequate information strategy is essential to change attitudes during the pandemic.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.