Abstract
Background and Aim: Despite the availability of the two-dose JYNNEOS Mpox vaccine, global uptake remains suboptimal due to limited awareness, low perceived personal risk, and persistent mistrust in health institutions. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a brief, multimedia educational package, comprising an animated video, infographic, and frequently asked question (FAQ) sheet, on improving knowledge, perceived risk, and vaccine intention among adults in Aseer, Saudi Arabia.
Materials and Methods: A single-group pre-post design was implemented between March and April 2025 in three primary healthcare networks across Aseer. A total of 150 unvaccinated adults (mean age 38.4 ± 11.2 years; 51% female) completed pre- and post-intervention surveys. The intervention, developed using the Health Belief Model framework, aimed to enhance perceived susceptibility, severity, and self-efficacy. Knowledge (0–10 scale), perceived risk (1–5 scale), and vaccination intention (5-point Likert) were assessed before and immediately after the intervention. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon tests were used to evaluate changes in scores, and hierarchical regression identified predictors of post-intervention acceptance.
Results: Mean knowledge scores increased from 4.2 ± 2.1 to 8.9 ± 1.0 (p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.02). The proportion with good or moderate knowledge rose from 45% to 96% (+51 percentage-points [pp]). Combined vaccine acceptance increased from 30% to 58% (+28 pp; p < 0.001; d = 0.84), while reluctance decreased from 40% to 16%. Video-dominant delivery yielded the highest gain (+36 pp). Independent predictors of intention included higher knowledge (β = 0.32), greater perceived severity (β = 0.24), and prior positive vaccine experience (β = 0.19) (R2 = 0.41). Qualitative insights highlighted residual barriers, access limitations, and institutional mistrust.
Conclusion: A 5-min culturally adapted educational package produced substantial and statistically significant improvements in Mpox knowledge, perceived risk, and vaccine intention. Integrating such micro-learning interventions into primary healthcare and digital health platforms may bridge information gaps and foster vaccine confidence. Combining concise multimedia education with accessible, same-day vaccination services can rapidly enhance preparedness and close the immunity gap in emerging infectious diseases.
Keywords: health belief model, Mpox vaccine, multimedia education, One Health, Saudi Arabia, vaccine acceptance, vaccine hesitancy.
