Research Publications (Arts and Design)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/214

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A multi-criteria framework for evaluating health communication strategies to combat vaccine hesitancy
(African Journals Online (AJOL), 2024) Esene, Patricia; Adedokun, Theophilus; Agbede, Grace Temiloluwa
The effectiveness of vaccination programs against infectious illnesses is threatened by the evolution of vaccine resistance, which poses a severe danger to international public health initiatives. Conventional methods of addressing vaccine resistance have frequently been constrained by their onedimensional emphasis, which ignores the intricate interactions between biological, epidemiological, and sociocultural elements influencing the development of resistance. In response, this research supports a multi-criteria strategy that incorporates several viewpoints and standards to comprehend and manage vaccination resistance fully. Five strategies—provider-patient communication, health education campaigns, social media campaigns, community outreach initiatives, and influencer partnerships—are incorporated into the framework. Ten criteria are employed to evaluate these strategies: impact, resistance to misinformation, inclusivity, penetration, community engagement, and facilitation of dialogue, credibility, establishment of trust, resource demands, and adaptability. The CRITIC method is utilized to ascertain the relative significance of each criterion, whereas the CoCoSo and TOPSIS methods are employed to prioritize the strategies according to their appropriateness. As indicated by the findings, the criterion of vaccine effectiveness holds the greatest significance, with trust and credibility following suit. It is determined that health education campaigns are the most effective approach to tackle vaccine hesitancy, whereas influencer partnerships are deemed to be the least effective.
Vaccine hesitancy in Nigeria : overcoming cultural, linguistic and religious obstacles
(African Journals Online (AJOL), 2024) Agbede, Grace Temiloluwa; Emezirinwune, Dominica; Adedokun, Theophilus; Idowu-Collins, Patricia
Vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge to public health efforts in Nigeria, a country characterized by immense cultural and linguistic diversity. The interactions among linguistic obstacles, cultural and religious beliefs, and historical elements that lead to vaccine hesitancy among Nigeria's many ethnic groups are examined in this review article. It analyzes the decision-making processes and information needs of Nigerian parents regarding childhood vaccinations. The article evaluates the effectiveness of existing vaccine promotion interventions and communication strategies, highlighting successes, limitations, and areas for improvement. By consolidating research findings, the review aims to inform the development of culturally appropriate and context-specific approaches to address vaccine hesitancy and enhance vaccine uptake in Nigeria. Recommendations emphasize formative research, community engagement, capacity building for healthcare workers, and the strategic use of diverse communication channels to reach diverse populations with tailored vaccination information and support.