The global health crisis triggered by the SARS-CoV-2 in 2019, known as the COVID-19 pandemic, prompted vaccination drives worldwide, including in India, to address the crisis. However, vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge to achieving vaccination goals. Hence, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis during 2021-2023 to estimate the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults in India and identify associated factors. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Quality assessment was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using a random-effects model. A total of 265 articles were identified, of which 21 full-text articles were included in the review. The pooled estimated prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults in India was found to be 28% (95% confidence interval: 27-29). Subgroup analysis revealed variations in hesitancy rates across different states, with higher rates observed in Jammu and Kashmir (44%), West Bengal (49%), and Maharashtra (39%). Gender-based analysis indicated higher hesitancy among males (36%) compared to females (26%). Among different study populations, medical students showed the lowest hesitancy rate (13%), whereas the general population exhibited the highest (34%). The findings suggest that vaccine hesitancy remains a significant concern in India, with one in four adults expressing hesitancy toward COVID-19 vaccination. Hesitancy rates vary across states, genders, and study populations. Addressing the factors contributing to hesitancy, such as safety concerns, lack of evidence, and misinformation, is crucial to enhance vaccine acceptance.
Copyright © 2024 Indian Journal of Public Health.