Prevalence of intentions to receive monkeypox vaccine. A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Immunization, as a preventive strategy against infectious diseases, has consolidated its position as a fundamental pillar in the field of public health. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence of the intention to receive the monkeypox (Mpox) vaccine. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the available evidence was performed using five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and ScienceDirect) with a search strategy until July 24, 2023. Data analysis was performed in R software version 4.2.3. The quality of the included cross-sectional studies was assessed using the “JBI-MAStARI”. In addition, a subgroup analysis by population and continent was developed. Results: Twenty-nine cross-sectional articles with a total sample of 52 658 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of intention to vaccinate against Mpox was 61% (95% CI: 53–69%; 52,658 participants; 29 studies; I² = 100%). In the subgroup analysis, the intention to be vaccinated against Mpox according to continents was 64% (95% CI: 53–74%; 13,883 participants; 17 studies; I² = 99%) in Asian countries, 43% (95% CI: 39–47%; 1538 participants; 3 studies; I² = 53%) in African countries, 62% (95% CI: 45–78%; 35,811 participants; 6 studies; I² = 99%) in European countries, and 63% (95% CI: 32–89%; 1426 participants; 3 studies; I² = 99%) in American countries. In the subgroup analysis on the intention to be vaccinated against Mpox, according to study subjects, it was 54% (95% CI: 45–62%; 10,296 participants; 11 studies; I² = 99%) in the general population, 57% (95% CI: 33–79%; 3333 participants; 10 studies; I² = 99%) in health care workers, and 76% (95% CI: 70–82%; 39,029 participants; 8 studies; I² = 98%) in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) community. In addition, as a secondary outcome, a prevalence of refusal of Mpox vaccination was found to be 22% (95% CI: 16–30%; 45,577 participants; 21 studies; I² = 99%). Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of recognizing regional and subgroup disparities in Mpox vaccine willingness and refusal. It emphasizes the importance of employing strategies to achieve widespread vaccination coverage and safeguard public health worldwide. Terms used: Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI), Prospective International Registry of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).