Abstract
BACKGROUND: COVID-19, a highly infectious virus, poses significant risks, particularly for immuno-compromised individuals. Vaccination remains a key preventive measure, yet acceptance rates vary among populations globally. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among dialysis patients atDr. Salma Center for Dialysis in 2022, highlighting the primary reasons for hesitancy within this vulnerable group. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Dr. Salma Center in Khartoum, Sudan, in 2022. A systematic random sampling method was employed to select participants, who were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: Of a sample of 137 patients, 125 completed the questionnaire with 91.2% response rate. Approximately half of the respondents reported vaccine hesitancy 50%, with 77% acknowledging the severity of COVID-19 but only 53% advised vaccination among their peers. Primary concerns included vaccine side effects 24.8% and mistrust of production companies 10.4%. No significant associations were found between vaccine hesitancy and demographic factors. CONCLUSION: The study reveals a notable prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among dialysis patients at Dr. Salma Center in Khartoum, 2022. Addressing this hesitancy requires concerted efforts to bridge the trust gap between patients and healthcare systems, coupled with targeted awareness campaigns to correct misinformation and reinforce confidence in vaccines.