Perceptions and attitudes towards human papillomavirus vaccination among Samoan girls Aged 10 –17 years and their caregivers in rural communities
Main Article Content
Keywords
HPV, human papillomavirus, vaccination, vaccine communication, Samoa, Pacific countries
Abstract
Introduction: Since introducing the human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV) in 2022, Samoa has achieved coverage rates of 80% or higher in consecutive years. However, coverage rates varied significantly by area during these years.
Methods: This qualitative study interviewed unvaccinated eligible girls aged 10–17 years, their parents and caregivers, and health workers to understand vaccine perceptions and social factors affecting provision of consent. Girls and their caregivers were recruited from schools with the most unvaccinated in the rural northwest Upolu region of Samoa.
Findings: Families that participated in the study were predominantly from low-income households with low educational attainment. The main findings were 1) a high willingness to vaccinate among girls, influenced by their peers, 2) lack of knowledge and need for more information on HPV and sexual and reproductive health for both children and caregivers, 3) significant vaccine refusal due to caregiver dissatisfaction with vaccine communication; and 4) differences in vaccine fears amongst fathers and mothers that affected consent to vaccinate.
Conclusion: Vaccination and health promotion should be informed and targeted to the needs and perspectives of Samoan girls and their caregivers.
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