%0 Journal Article
%T Obstacles to Vaccination against COVID-19 among the Population Living in the Kindu Health Zone
%A Antoine Lufimbo Katawandja
%A Jimmy Yuma Ilemba
%A Imani Ramazani Bin Eradi
%A Simon-Decap Mabakutuvangilanga Ntela
%J Journal of Biosciences and Medicines
%P 230-242
%@ 2327-509X
%D 2025
%I Scientific Research Publishing
%R 10.4236/jbm.2025.132018
%X <b>Introduction:</b> Vaccination faces several obstacles in the fight against COVID-19, yet it has been identified as one of the most effective means of preventing new epidemics of COVID-19. The aim was to contribute to improving vaccination coverage against COVID-19 in the Kindu health zone. <b>Method:</b> We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study with an analytical focus, using a questionnaire that enabled us to carry out a survey from October 03 to 30, 2022. Our target study population was residents of the Kindu health zone. A total of 420 subjects participated in our study, including 42 per site. <b>Results:</b> The study revealed a low proportion of vaccinated subjects (38.3%) and a high proportion of non-vaccinated subjects (61.70%). Non-belief in the efficacy of vaccines (p = 0.001), infodemia (p = 0.001) and respect for ethnic norms (p = 0.001) were identified as perceived barriers to vaccination. Fear of being branded with the &#8220;666&#8221; beast badge (p = 0.004) as the perceived severity. Respondents&#8217; perceptions of mass vaccination against COVID-19 are mixed, and their opinions and expectations of COVID-19 vaccination in the town of Kindu are divided. <b>Conclusion</b>: In order to increase the proportion of people vaccinated against COVID-19, it is suggested here to increase the population&#8217;s ability to detect false information through a well-structured communication and health education program.
%K COVID-19
%K Vaccination
%K Obstacles
%K Kindu
%U http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=140566