Acceptability of the RTS,S Malaria Vaccine among Healthcare Workers in Ghana: A Qualitative Study Using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability
1
Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A3861
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Malaria remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is a leading cause of mortality among children under five. In Ghana, despite sustained efforts, the disease continues to pose a significant burden. Acceptability of the malaria vaccine among implementers is important for augmenting successful implementation and sustainability
METHODS:
An exploratory qualitative design was used. Fifteen Community Health Nurses (CHNs) were purposively selected for in-depth interviews guided by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA). Data were transcribed, coded in NVivo 12, and analyzed thematically.
RESULTS:
CHNs expressed high acceptability of the RTS,S vaccine, citing its effectiveness, safety, minimal disruption to routine tasks, and ethical alignment. They reported strong self-confidence in their ability to administer the vaccine, and an overall reduction in malaria incidence among children under five years.
CONCLUSIONS:
The RTS, S vaccine is perceived to be highly acceptable among health providers. Their confidence, training, and ethical alignment with the intervention was key to sustaining uptake and ensuring the successful integration into routine immunization program.
Malaria remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is a leading cause of mortality among children under five. In Ghana, despite sustained efforts, the disease continues to pose a significant burden. Acceptability of the malaria vaccine among implementers is important for augmenting successful implementation and sustainability
METHODS:
An exploratory qualitative design was used. Fifteen Community Health Nurses (CHNs) were purposively selected for in-depth interviews guided by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA). Data were transcribed, coded in NVivo 12, and analyzed thematically.
RESULTS:
CHNs expressed high acceptability of the RTS,S vaccine, citing its effectiveness, safety, minimal disruption to routine tasks, and ethical alignment. They reported strong self-confidence in their ability to administer the vaccine, and an overall reduction in malaria incidence among children under five years.
CONCLUSIONS:
The RTS, S vaccine is perceived to be highly acceptable among health providers. Their confidence, training, and ethical alignment with the intervention was key to sustaining uptake and ensuring the successful integration into routine immunization program.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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