Good participatory practice, clinical trials awareness and COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in sub-Sahara Africa

Ateghang-Awankem, B.; Deluca, L.; Shadzeka, E.; Anchang, K. Y.

The success stories regarding the availability of at least 4 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines showing efficacy rates of about 90%, barely 10 months after the sequence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was made available by China and 8 months after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 pandemic, is an incredible scientific and technological achievement. Clear and consistent communication by the pharmaceutical industry, national and regional medicinal agencies, and government officials is key to building public confidence in vaccine programs. In addition, community-based care with community health workers will increase efficacy. This includes clinical trials and regulatory process awareness campaign. Additionally, strategic campaigns should also address COVID-19 vaccine-related issues: Vaccine's level of efficacy, number of shots/doses needed, the time needed for protection, vaccine up-take, and herd immunity. Implementing the principles of good participatory practice and stakeholder engagement prior to market launch, is essential, to improve vaccine acceptance.