Assessing occupational vaccine uptake and infection control knowledge among healthcare professionals in Cameroon: a cross-sectional analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background: Due to occupational exposures, healthcare professionals (HCPs) face an increased risk of infectious diseases, particularly in low-resource settings. Despite infection prevention and control (IPC) policies, systemic and behavioral barriers exist in Cameroon. This study assessed the uptake of occupational vaccines (hepatitis B and COVID-19) and IPC knowledge among HCPs in Fako Division of Cameroon. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to May 2024 among 276 HCPs from four health facilities in Fako Division. Data were collected using a pretested, structured, self-administered questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regressions were employed to identify predictors of good IPC knowledge and combined vaccine uptake. Significance was set at a P value of <.05. Results: Hepatitis B vaccine uptake was 67.4%, while COVID-19 was 32.6%. Doctors had the lowest hepatitis B vaccine uptake (50.7%), while midwives had the lowest COVID-19 vaccine uptake (25.0%), compared with other healthcare cadres. Only 34.8% of HCPs demonstrated good IPC knowledge, despite high reported access to personal protective equipment (PPE) (87.3%) and IPC guidelines (87%). Older age (aOR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.33–4.39) and previous occupational exposures (aOR: 2.14, 95% CI: 1.17–3.93) were significantly associated with combined vaccine uptake. PPE availability (aOR: 2.64, 95% CI: 1.04–6.74), >7 years of work experience (aOR: 3.22, 95% CI: 1.11–9.35), and contract employment status (aOR: 4.40, 95% CI: 1.47–13.21) were predictors of good IPC knowledge. Conclusion: The study highlights gaps in occupational vaccine uptake and IPC knowledge among HCPs in Fako, with significant disparities across professional cadres. There is an urgent need for integrated, experience-based IPC training and targeted vaccine advocacy.