JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Exposure to information related to mpox may be related to different perceptual processes in relation to vaccination intent.

Objective:

This study examined the specific pathways by which mpox information exposure and perceptual processes influence vaccination intent through the perceived risk of contracting mpox among GBMSM in Beijing and Hong Kong.

Methods:

Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey of mpox-unvaccinated GBMSM in Hong Kong (n=470) and Beijing (n=519), conducted between November 2023 and March 2024. Structural equation modeling was performed to estimate the direct and indirect effects, and multigroup structural equation modeling was used to estimate the effect measure modification by city.

Results:

Exposure to positive mpox information significantly enhanced perceived control and increased vaccination intention via a higher perceived risk for mpox in the following six months, particularly among participants in Hong Kong. Conversely, negative information increased threat perceptions, but did not consistently raise the perceived risk of contracting mpox. Differences between Beijing and Hong Kong participants were notable, with those in Beijing showing weaker associations between information exposure and perceived risk for mpox, despite higher levels of information exposure and the number of non-regular sex partners.

Conclusions:

Positive information significantly boosts vaccination intent by increasing perceived control and risk perceptions, particularly where vaccination programs are accessible, as in Hong Kong. Tailored, stigma-free communication is crucial for improving vaccination uptake, especially in Mainland China, where subsidized vaccines are limited.