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Keller VL, Klein CC, Wingler L, Blom TJ, Welge JA, Fornari VM, Higdon C, Crystal S, Patino LR, Correll CU, DelBello MP. Predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among youth with bipolar disorder spectrum disorders and their caregivers. J Affect Disord 2024; 365:400-405. [PMID: 39147152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.08.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about rates of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among youth with bipolar spectrum disorders (BSD). As such, the aim of this study is to assess rates and predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among youth with BSD and their caregivers in the United States. METHODS Youth and their main caregiver were recruited from a large pragmatic study cohort. Youth who were aged 8-22 at the time of this data collection, had a bipolar-spectrum disorder diagnosis, had overweight or obesity, and were treated with a second-generation antipsychotic were invited to participate in an online survey and interview assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS A total of 453 surveys and 341 interviews were completed 07/2021-05/2022 by youth and their caregivers. Sixty-seven percent of caregivers and 63 % of youth reported receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccine uptake rates among youth and caregivers were highly correlated. Predictors of vaccine uptake among youth were older age and living in the Northeast Region of the United States. Predictors of caregiver vaccine uptake were male sex, higher annual household income and not having to quarantine due to COVID-19. LIMITATIONS The sample was small and not a full representation of a population with bipolar-spectrum disorders therefore, the results may not be generalizable. The study design and statistical method do not allow for causal inferences to be made. CONCLUSIONS These findings may aid in targeting interventions to maximize COVID-19 and other vaccine uptake in youth with bipolar disorders and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria L Keller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA.
| | - Christina C Klein
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Lauren Wingler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Thomas J Blom
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Welge
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Victor M Fornari
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Claudine Higdon
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Stephen Crystal
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy, and Aging Research, Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - L Rodrigo Patino
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Christoph U Correll
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Partner site Berlin, Germany
| | - Melissa P DelBello
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
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Assaf AR, Sidhu GS, Soni A, Cappelleri JC, Draica F, Herbert C, Arham I, Bader M, Jimenez C, Bois M, Silvester E, Meservey J, Eng V, Nelson M, Cai Y, Nangarlia A, Tian Z, Liu Y, Watt S. Cross-Sectional Survey of Factors Contributing to COVID-19 Testing Hesitancy Among US Adults at Risk of Severe Outcomes from COVID-19. Infect Dis Ther 2024; 13:1683-1701. [PMID: 38869840 PMCID: PMC11219613 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-024-01001-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises testing individuals for COVID-19 after exposure or if they display symptoms. However, a deeper understanding of demographic factors associated with testing hesitancy is necessary. METHODS A US nationwide cross-sectional survey of adults with risk factors for developing severe COVID-19 ("high-risk" individuals) was conducted from August 18-September 5, 2023. Objectives included characterizing demographics and attitudes associated with COVID-19 testing. Inverse propensity weighting was used to weight the data to accurately reflect the high-risk adult US population as reflected in IQVIA medical claims data. We describe here the weighted results modeled to characterize demographic factors driving hesitancy. RESULTS In the weighted sample of 5019 respondents at high risk for severe COVID-19, 58.2% were female, 37.8% were ≥ 65 years old, 77.1% were White, and 13.9% had a postgraduate degree. Overall, 67% were Non-testers (who indicated that they were unlikely or unsure of their likelihood of being tested within the next 6 months); these respondents were significantly more likely than Testers (who indicated a higher probability of testing within 6 months) to be female (60.2 vs. 54.1%; odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)], 1.3 [1.1‒1.4]), aged ≥ 65 years old (41.5 vs. 30.3%; OR [95% CI] compared with ages 18‒34 years, 0.6 [0.5‒0.7]), White (82.1 vs. 66.8%; OR [95% CI], 1.4 [1.1‒1.8]), and to identify as politically conservative (40.9 vs. 18.1%; OR [95% CI], 2.6 [2.3‒2.9]). In contrast, Testers were significantly more likely than Non-testers to have previous experience with COVID-19 testing, infection, or vaccination; greater knowledge regarding COVID-19 and testing; greater healthcare engagement; and concerns about COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS Older, female, White, rural-dwelling, and politically conservative high-risk adults are the most likely individuals to experience COVID-19 testing hesitancy. Understanding these demographic factors will help guide strategies to improve US testing rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annlouise R Assaf
- Global Medical Patient Impact Assessment, Worldwide Medical and Safety, Pfizer Inc, Groton, CT, USA
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Gurinder S Sidhu
- US Medical Affairs, Pfizer Inc, 537 Alandele Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90036, USA.
| | - Apurv Soni
- Program in Digital Medicine, University of Massachusetts, North Worcester, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Carly Herbert
- Program in Digital Medicine, University of Massachusetts, North Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Iqra Arham
- US Medical Affairs, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mehnaz Bader
- Global Medical Patient Impact Assessment, Worldwide Medical and Safety, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - Camille Jimenez
- Global Medical Grants/Institute of Translational Equitable Medicine, Worldwide Medical and Safety, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael Bois
- US Medical Affairs, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Valerie Eng
- Strategy Consulting, IQVIA, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Yong Cai
- Advanced Analytics, IQVIA, Wayne, PA, USA
| | | | - Zhiyi Tian
- Advanced Analytics, IQVIA, Wayne, PA, USA
| | | | - Stephen Watt
- Global Medical Patient Impact Assessment, Worldwide Medical and Safety, Pfizer Inc, New York, NY, USA
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Nawaz S, Moon KJ, Anagbonu F, Trinh A, Escobedo L, Montiel GI. Evaluation of the COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign ¡Ándale! ¿Qué Esperas? in Latinx Communities in California, June 2021-May 2022. Public Health Rep 2024; 139:44S-52S. [PMID: 37957827 PMCID: PMC11339681 DOI: 10.1177/00333549231204043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The 12-month vaccination campaign ¡Ándale! ¿Qué Esperas? was launched to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates in Latinx populations in California by expanding community outreach. The objectives of this evaluation were to (1) determine predictors of vaccination rates and (2) identify barriers to vaccination and potential solutions. METHODS Five community partners in California serving Latinx populations with high social vulnerability participated in the ¡Ándale! ¿Qué Esperas? campaign. Community health workers were hired to deliver outreach (virtual, one-on-one, group based, and information dissemination), vaccinations, and supportive services. We collected data on outreach strategy used (method and location), number of vaccinations provided and reasons for delay, and number of times that supportive services were provided. We used regression models to assess significant predictors of vaccinations and supportive services. RESULTS Community health workers (N = 146) hired from June 1, 2021, through May 31, 2022, performed outreach engagements (n = 6297) and supportive services (n = 313 796), resulting in 130 413 vaccinations and 28 660 vaccine appointments. The number of vaccinations administered was significantly higher at events in which supportive services were provided versus not provided (coefficient = 34.02; 95% CI, 3.34-64.68; P = .03). The odds ratio of supportive services was 3.67 (95% CI, 1.76-7.55) during virtual outreach and 2.95 (95% CI, 2.37-3.69) during one-on-one outreach (P < .001 for both) as compared with information dissemination encounters. Vaccination concerns were reported among 55.0% of vaccinated survey respondents (67.7%, vaccine confidence; 51.7%, access). CONCLUSIONS Supportive services facilitate vaccinations, ease transportation and time barriers, and instill confidence among working-class racial and ethnic minority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saira Nawaz
- Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Evaluation Studies, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Health Services Management and Policy, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kyle J Moon
- Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Evaluation Studies, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Francis Anagbonu
- Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Evaluation Studies, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anne Trinh
- Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Evaluation Studies, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lizette Escobedo
- AltaMed Institute for Health Equity, AltaMed Health Services, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gloria Itzel Montiel
- AltaMed Institute for Health Equity, AltaMed Health Services, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, CA, USA
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Ricke IJ, Spaulding AB, Rajtar NN, Benton EM, Anderson IG, Lundberg L, Mussiel A, Nguyen RHN. Predictors of willingness to receive updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 booster vaccines among a convenience sample in Minnesota. Vaccine 2024; 42:3499-3504. [PMID: 38641495 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.04.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine factors associated with intention to receive recommended COVID-19 booster vaccines in 2023-2024. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 1,256 individuals at Minnesota State and County fairs was conducted to assess their intention to receive a COVID-19 booster vaccine in the coming year if recommended. The association between booster intention and multiple factors believed to influence willingness to receive the vaccine, including perceived vaccine safety, perceived risk of COVID-19, public health knowledge, fear of future pandemics, and political affiliation, were analyzed using ordinal logistic regression and adjusted odds ratios (aOR). RESULTS Intention to receive a COVID-19 booster vaccine was high among our participants with 56% reporting they were extremely likely to receive the vaccine this year and another 15% reporting that they were likely to do the same. A strong association with getting a booster vaccine was found between perceived vaccine safety (aOR: 15.3, 95% CI: 10.6-22.2), perceived COVID-19 risk (aOR: 3.5, 95% CI: 2.4-5.1), pandemic fear (aOR: 3.4, 95% CI: 2.4-4.8), public health knowledge (aOR: 1.3, 95% CI: 0.9-1.8), and democrat political affiliation (aOR: 2.8, 95%CI: 1.8-4.4). CONCLUSIONS Our study emphasizes the importance of perceived vaccine safety as a predictor of intention to accept COVID-19 vaccines and highlights the continued need to effectively communicate with the public about the safety of vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- I J Ricke
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA.
| | - A B Spaulding
- Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - N N Rajtar
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - E M Benton
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - I G Anderson
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - L Lundberg
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - A Mussiel
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - R H N Nguyen
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
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Zayoud D, Haddad C, Khachman D, Ajrouche R, Lahoud N. Estimating COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in pregnant and lactating women: a cross-sectional study in Lebanon. Arch Public Health 2024; 82:38. [PMID: 38500217 PMCID: PMC10949662 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-024-01267-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic highlights vaccination's critical role in reducing morbidity and mortality, depending on public attitude. This study aims to identify the estimates of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in pregnant and lactating women, as well as associated potential factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted between August and September 2021, through an online survey and with a paper survey distributed in gynecology and pediatric clinics. Pregnant and breastfeeding women aged 18 years and above were recruited. The attitude scale was created specifically for evaluating attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine. RESULTS In total, 207 women participated, with 132 breastfeeding, 74 pregnant and 1 experiencing both conditions. Of these, one hundred and twenty women (58%) considered themselves at risk for COVID-19 infection. In addition, 51.7% (n = 107) of women expressed the intent to receive the vaccine once available. A multivariable linear regression was conducted taking the COVID-19 vaccination attitude scale as a dependent variable. The results revealed an R-squared value of 0.558, indicating that approximately 55.8% of the variance in the attitude scale was accounted for by the included predictors. The results showed that preventive measures (ß=2.25, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [1.02; 3.48], p < 0.001), preference for vaccines made in Europe and America (ß=1.23; 95% CI [0.69-1.77], p < 0.001), protect yourself for getting sick (ß=4.22, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [2.83; 5.61], p < 0.001) and belief in the importance of vaccination for themselves and their baby (ß=3.49; 95% CI [2.01; 4.98], p < 0.001) were associated with a positive attitude towards vaccination. Conversely, experiencing a previous bad reaction to a vaccine (ß= -1.35; 95% CI [0.85-1.85], p < 0.001) and concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccine safety (ß= -4.09; 95% CI [-5.98; -2.21], p < 0.001) were associated with a negative attitude towards vaccination. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal that COVID-19 vaccine acceptability among pregnant and breastfeeding women, amidst the pandemic was insufficient to meet community immunity. The identified reasons for vaccine reluctance, notably concerns about safety for both personal health and the health of their pregnancy or newborns, along with insufficient information about the vaccine, underscore the pressing need to address these factors to improve immunization rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Zayoud
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Chadia Haddad
- Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon.
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Fanar, Lebanon.
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, P.O. Box 60096, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
| | - Dalia Khachman
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roula Ajrouche
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Sciences and Arts in Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Lahoud
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Fanar, Lebanon
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Kuter BJ, Brien K, Anderson S, Bass SB, Gutierrez L, Winters S, Eichenlaub B, Whitfield C, Faig W. COVID-19 vaccine perspectives and uptake among university students three years into the pandemic. Vaccine 2024; 42:1745-1756. [PMID: 38365478 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND University students have been uniquely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic for the past three years (2020-2023). Understanding their COVID-19 perspectives, beliefs, and vaccine uptake may help to improve future vaccine initiatives and education. METHODS A cross sectional, confidential, online survey was conducted at four universities in Pennsylvania in spring 2023 to assess undergraduate, graduate, and professional students' perspectives regarding their knowledge of COVID-19 vaccines, importance of COVID-19 vaccines and mandates, number of doses of COVID-19 vaccine received including the recent BA.4/BA.5 bivalent booster, where they were vaccinated, receipt of influenza vaccine, and sources of information used to make decisions about COVID-19 vaccine. RESULTS Vaccination for COVID-19 was considered important by 75 % of 2223 students surveyed; 68 % agreed with mandating COVID-19 vaccine. Over 89 % were fully COVID-19 vaccinated (≥2 doses), 65 % were up-to-date (≥3 doses), but only 35 % had received the BA.4/BA.5 booster. Students who considered COVID-19 vaccine important were generally older, female, and non-business majors. Higher rates of up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination were found in those who received influenza vaccine in 2022-2023, females, Asians, doctoral or professional students, those attending larger universities, non-US residents, and those interested in learning more about COVID-19 vaccines. Most trusted sources of information on COVID-19 vaccines were the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare providers, and parents; the least trusted sources were social media, television, and the internet. CONCLUSIONS The majority of university students agreed that COVID-19 vaccination is important and supported COVID-19 mandates. While the rate of fully vaccinated and up-to-date students was similar to the US adult population, the latter rate needs improvement. Receipt of the BA.4/BA.5 booster was particularly low. Further education is needed to improve vaccine knowledge, especially as we move to periodic boosters. Business majors, males, and younger students may benefit from increased on-campus vaccine education initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J Kuter
- Vaccine Education Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kate Brien
- Vaccine Education Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Susannah Anderson
- Temple University, College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sarah Bauerle Bass
- Temple University, College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Walter Faig
- Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Većkalov B, Zarzeczna N, McPhetres J, van Harreveld F, Rutjens BT. Psychological Distance to Science as a Predictor of Science Skepticism Across Domains. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2024; 50:18-37. [PMID: 36062322 PMCID: PMC10676051 DOI: 10.1177/01461672221118184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article presents and tests psychological distance to science (PSYDISC) as a domain-general predictor of science skepticism. Drawing on the concept of psychological distance, PSYDISC reflects the extent to which individuals perceive science as a tangible undertaking conducted by people similar to oneself (social), with effects in the here (spatial) and now (temporal), and as useful and applicable in the real world (hypothetical distance). In six studies (two preregistered; total N = 1,630) and two countries, we developed and established the factor structure and validity of a scale measuring PSYDISC. Crucially, higher PSYDISC predicted skepticism beyond established predictors, across science domains. A final study showed that PSYDISC shapes real-world behavior (COVID-19 vaccination uptake). This work thus provides a novel tool to predict science skepticism, as well as a construct that can help to further develop a unifying framework to understand science skepticism across domains.
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Salib Y, Amodei J, Sanchez C, Castillo Smyntek XA, Lien M, Liu S, Acharya G, Kihumbu B, Mishra P, Chaves-Gnecco D, Timsina K, Diaz J, Henry C, Mickievicz E, Mwaliya A, Ho K, Sidani J, Ragavan MI. The COVID-19 vaccination experience of non-English speaking immigrant and refugee communities of color: A community co-created study. COMMUNITY HEALTH EQUITY RESEARCH & POLICY 2024; 44:177-188. [PMID: 36283968 PMCID: PMC9597283 DOI: 10.1177/2752535x221133140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In this community-partnered study we conducted focus groups with non-English speaking immigrant and refugee communities of color in 4 languages to understand their perspectives on COVID-19 vaccines, barriers to accessing vaccines, and recommendations for healthcare providers. We used a mixed deductive-inductive thematic analysis approach and human centered design to guide data analysis. 66 individuals participated; 85% were vaccinated. The vaccination experience was often positive; however, participants described language inaccessibility, often relying on family members for interpretation. Community-based organizations played a role in connecting participants to vaccines. Unvaccinated participants expressed fear of side effects and belief in natural immunity. Participants shared recommendations to providers around increasing vaccine access, improving language accessibility, and building trust. Results from our study show numerous barriers immigrant and refugee communities of color faced getting their COVID-19 vaccine, but also highlights opportunities to engage with community partners. Future implications for research, policy, and practice are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesmina Salib
- Jewish Family Community Services, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Amodei
- Division of Immersive Media, Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Marian Lien
- OCA Asian Pacific American Advocates--Pittsburgh Chapter, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Geeta Acharya
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Pralad Mishra
- Jewish Family Community Services, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Diego Chaves-Gnecco
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Khara Timsina
- Bhutanese Community Association of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Erin Mickievicz
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Aweys Mwaliya
- Somali Bantu Community Association of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ken Ho
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jaime Sidani
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, University of PittsburghSchool of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Maya I Ragavan
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Voss U, Schermelleh-Engel K, Hauser L, Holzmann M, Fichtner D, Seifert S, Klimke A, Windmann S. Alike but not the same: Psychological profiles of COVID-19 vaccine skeptics. Health Psychol Open 2024; 11:20551029241248757. [PMID: 38681211 PMCID: PMC11047032 DOI: 10.1177/20551029241248757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the challenges of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic was a widespread skepticism about vaccination. To elucidate the underlying mental and emotional predispositions, we examined a sample of 1428 participants using latent profile analysis (LPA) on selected personality trait variables, mental health status, and measures of irrational beliefs. LPA revealed five distinct profiles: two classes of non-skeptics and three of skeptics. The smaller non-skeptic class reported the highest rates of mental health problems, along with high levels of neuroticism, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, and external locus of control. The larger non-skeptic class was psychologically well-balanced. Conversely, the skeptic groups shared strong distrust of COVID-19 vaccination but differed in emotional and mental profiles, leading to graded differences in endorsing extreme conspiracy beliefs. This suggests that vaccine skepticism is not solely a result of mental illness or emotional instability; rather extreme skepticism manifests as a nuanced, graded phenomenon contingent on personality traits and conspirational beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Voss
- Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- VITOS Hochtaunus Psychiatric Hospital, Friedrichsdorf, Germany
| | | | - Leana Hauser
- VITOS Hochtaunus Psychiatric Hospital, Friedrichsdorf, Germany
| | | | - Diana Fichtner
- VITOS Hochtaunus Psychiatric Hospital, Friedrichsdorf, Germany
| | - Sonja Seifert
- VITOS Hochtaunus Psychiatric Hospital, Friedrichsdorf, Germany
| | - Ansgar Klimke
- VITOS Hochtaunus Psychiatric Hospital, Friedrichsdorf, Germany
- Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany
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Althouse BM, Wallace B, Case BKM, Scarpino SV, Allard A, Berdahl AM, White ER, Hébert-Dufresne L. The unintended consequences of inconsistent closure policies and mobility restrictions during epidemics. BMC GLOBAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 1:28. [PMID: 38798822 PMCID: PMC11116187 DOI: 10.1186/s44263-023-00028-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Background Controlling the spread of infectious diseases-even when safe, transmission-blocking vaccines are available-may require the effective use of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), e.g., mask wearing, testing, limits on group sizes, venue closure. During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, many countries implemented NPIs inconsistently in space and time. This inconsistency was especially pronounced for policies in the United States of America (US) related to venue closure. Methods Here, we investigate the impact of inconsistent policies associated with venue closure using mathematical modeling and high-resolution human mobility, Google search, and county-level SARS-CoV-2 incidence data from the USA. Specifically, we look at high-resolution location data and perform a US-county-level analysis of nearly 8 million SARS-CoV-2 cases and 150 million location visits, including 120 million church visitors across 184,677 churches, 14 million grocery visitors across 7662 grocery stores, and 13.5 million gym visitors across 5483 gyms. Results Analyzing the interaction between venue closure and changing mobility using a mathematical model shows that, across a broad range of model parameters, inconsistent or partial closure can be worse in terms of disease transmission as compared to scenarios with no closures at all. Importantly, changes in mobility patterns due to epidemic control measures can lead to increase in the future number of cases. In the most severe cases, individuals traveling to neighboring jurisdictions with different closure policies can result in an outbreak that would otherwise have been contained. To motivate our mathematical models, we turn to mobility data and find that while stay-at-home orders and closures decreased contacts in most areas of the USA, some specific activities and venues saw an increase in attendance and an increase in the distance visitors traveled to attend. We support this finding using search query data, which clearly shows a shift in information seeking behavior concurrent with the changing mobility patterns. Conclusions While coarse-grained observations are not sufficient to validate our models, taken together, they highlight the potential unintended consequences of inconsistent epidemic control policies related to venue closure and stress the importance of balancing the societal needs of a population with the risk of an outbreak growing into a large epidemic. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s44263-023-00028-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M. Althouse
- University of Washington, Seattle, 98105 WA USA
- New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, 88003 NM USA
| | - Brendan Wallace
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Washington, Seattle, 98195 WA USA
- Present Address: Quantitative Ecology and Resource Management, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
- School of Aquatic & Fishery Sciences,, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - B. K. M. Case
- Department of Computer Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, 05405 VT USA
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 05405 VT USA
| | - Samuel V. Scarpino
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 05405 VT USA
- Institute for Experiential AI, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts USA
- Department of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA USA
- Khoury College of Computer Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA USA
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM USA
| | - Antoine Allard
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 05405 VT USA
- Département de physique, de génie physique et d’optique, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), G1V 0A6 Canada
- Centre interdisciplinaire en modélisation mathématique, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), G1V 0A6 Canada
| | - Andrew M. Berdahl
- School of Aquatic & Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, 98195 WA USA
| | - Easton R. White
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, 03824 NH USA
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, 05405 VT USA
| | - Laurent Hébert-Dufresne
- Department of Computer Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, 05405 VT USA
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, 05405 VT USA
- Département de physique, de génie physique et d’optique, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), G1V 0A6 Canada
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11
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Saville CWN, Mann R, Lockard AS, Bark-Connell A, Gabuljah SG, Young AM, Thomas DR. Covid and the coalfield: Covid-19 vaccine hesitance in Wales and Appalachia. Soc Sci Med 2023; 337:116295. [PMID: 37857241 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccine hesitancy is a barrier to Covid-19 vaccine uptake and displays a social gradient, compounding health disparities. While social gradients are a vital concept in health, they flatten distinctions between types of disadvantaged community. This paper focuses on vaccine hesitance in post-industrial and de-industrialising coalfields. The social consequences of the decline of coal mining may present barriers to vaccine uptake. METHODS We ran parallel surveys in Wales (N = 4187) and US states overlapping with central Appalachia (N = 4864), to examine whether vaccine attitudes and uptake varied between areas with different coal mining histories. These surveys were accompanied by qualitative interviews of 36 residents of these coalfields to explore vaccination decisions and triangulate with survey data. RESULTS Factor analysis identified four axes of attitudes in the survey data: vaccine confidence, covid scepticism, vaccine individualism, and concerned confusion. These themes were echoed in the interviews. Vaccine confidence was lower; and covid scepticism, vaccine individualism, and concerned confusion higher, in residents of areas of Wales with greater mining extent and where pits closed during certain periods. Residents of former US coal counties had lower vaccine confidence and higher covid scepticism, while those in current coal counties had greater vaccine individualism and concerned confusion. In former US coal counties and Welsh areas where pits closed since 1980, vaccine uptake was lower. Differences could not be explained by respondents' income and education. In the interviews, norms of social solidarity were often invoked by vaccinated respondents, while unvaccinated respondents did not frame decisions in the context of the industrial history of their areas. DISCUSSION The legacy of coal-mining's decline presents barriers to public health campaigns. We show evidence of this across two historically significant coalfields. Attention is needed to avert negative public health consequences of global energy transition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robin Mann
- School of History, Law, and Social Sciences, Bangor University, Wales, UK
| | | | | | | | - April M Young
- College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, USA
| | - Daniel Rhys Thomas
- Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, Public Health Wales, Wales, UK
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12
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Bloom O, Bryce TN, Botticello AL, Galea M, Delgado AD, Dyson-Hudson TA, Zanca JM, Spungen A. Health impacts reported in the Spinal Cord Injury COVID-19 Pandemic Experience Survey (SCI-CPES). J Spinal Cord Med 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37769141 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2023.2260959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT In people with spinal cord injury (SCI), infections are a leading cause of death, and there is a high prevalence of diabetes mellitus, obesity, and hypertension, which are all comorbidities associated with worse outcomes after COVID-19 infection. OBJECTIVE To characterize self-reported health impacts of COVID-19 on people with SCI related to exposure to virus, diagnosis, symptoms, complications of infection, and vaccination. METHODS The Spinal Cord Injury COVID-19 Pandemic Experience Survey (SCI-CPES) study was administered to ask people with SCI about their health and other experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS 223 community-living people with SCI (male = 71%; age = 52±15 years [mean±SD]; paraplegia = 55%) completed the SCI-CPES. Comorbidities first identified in the general population as associated with poor outcomes after COVID-19 infection were commonly reported in this SCI sample: hypertension (30%) and diabetes (13%). 23.5% of respondents reported a known infection exposure from someone who visited (13.5%) or lived in their home (10%). During the study, which included a timeframe when testing was either unavailable or scarce, 61% of respondents were tested for COVID-19; 14% tested or were presumed positive. Fever, fatigue, and chills were the most common symptoms reported. Of the 152 respondents surveyed after COVID-19 vaccines became available, 82% reported being vaccinated. Race and age were significantly associated with positive vaccination status: most (78%) individuals who were vaccinated identified as Non-Hispanic White and were older than those who reported being unvaccinated (57±14 vs. 43±13 years, mean±SD). CONCLUSIONS Self-reported COVID-19 symptoms were relatively uncommon and not severe in this sample of people with SCI. Potential confounders and limitations include responder, recruitment and self-reporting biases and changing pandemic conditions. Future studies on this topic should query social distancing and other behavioral strategies. Large retrospective chart review studies may provide additional data on incidence and prevalence of COVID-19 infections, symptoms, and severities in the SCI population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ona Bloom
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Thomas N Bryce
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Amanda L Botticello
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Marinella Galea
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Service and Spinal Cord Damage Research Center, James J Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Andrew D Delgado
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Trevor A Dyson-Hudson
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jeanne M Zanca
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ann Spungen
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Service and Spinal Cord Damage Research Center, James J Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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13
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Wang Y, Beltran RM, Cumberland WG, Young SD. Factors Associated with COVID-19 Testing, Vaccination, and Use of Digital Contact Tracing Apps among Black and Latinx MSM (BLMSM) in Los Angeles. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01750-y. [PMID: 37566181 PMCID: PMC10953315 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01750-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the factors associated with COVID-19 testing, vaccination intent (both individually and jointly), and willingness to use contact tracing digital apps among a cohort of Black and Latinx men who have sex with men (BLMSM) living in Los Angeles during the initial peak (July 2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic. A questionnaire detailing participants COVID-19 experiences was sent to 300 primarily BLMSM after the first state-wide COVID-19 lockdown. Logistic regression models with random cluster effects were used for analyses. Forty-two percent (42%) tested for COVID-19, 27% were willing to get vaccinated, and about 45% reported willingness to use contact tracing digital apps. Controlling for intervention participation, age, education, marital status, employment, health, tobacco, binge drinking, and self-reported anxiety, those who were depressed had 33% (95% CI: 0.13 to 0.82) odds of using a prevention strategy (either test for COVID-19 or vaccination intent) as the group who were not depressed. Those who had high school diploma or less had 23% (95% CI: 0.11 to 0.48) odds to use digital contact tracing apps as the group with education level of at least Associate's or Bachelor's degree. Without considering the format of the test kits, vaccine side effects, and ease of use for digital contact tracing apps, participants appeared to still be hesitant in using COVID-19 prevention strategies at the initial height of the pandemic. Our findings suggest the need for further investigation into this hesitancy to better inform and prepare for future epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Section of Public and Population Health, Division of Oral and Systemic Health Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 10833 La Conte, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Raiza M Beltran
- Luskin School of Public Affairs, UCLA, 10833 La Conte, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - William G Cumberland
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA, 10833 La Conte, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Sean D Young
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine and Informatics, Information and Computer Sciences, University of California, Irvine, City Tower, Ste 640, Rt 128-01, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
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14
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Han Q, Zheng B, Abakoumkin G, Leander NP, Stroebe W. Why some people do not get vaccinated against COVID-19: Social-cognitive determinants of vaccination behavior. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2023; 15:825-845. [PMID: 36345695 PMCID: PMC9877847 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
It is puzzling that a sizeable percentage of people refuse to get vaccinated against COVID-19. This study aimed to examine social psychological factors influencing their vaccine hesitancy. This longitudinal study traced a cohort of 2663 individuals in 25 countries from the time before COVID-19 vaccines became available (March 2020) to July 2021, when vaccination was widely available. Multilevel logistic regressions were used to examine determinants of actual COVID-19 vaccination behavior by July 2021, with country-level intercept as random effect. Of the 2663 participants, 2186 (82.1%) had been vaccinated by July 2021. Participants' attitude toward COVID-19 vaccines was the strongest predictor of both vaccination intention and subsequent vaccination behavior (p < .001). Perceived risk of getting infected and perceived personal disturbance of infection were also associated with higher likelihood of getting vaccinated (p < .001). However, religiosity, right-wing political orientation, conspiracy beliefs, and low trust in government regarding COVID-19 were negative predictors of vaccination intention and behavior (p < .05). Our findings highlight the importance of attitude toward COVID-19 vaccines and also suggest that certain life-long held convictions that predate the pandemic make people distrustful of their government and likely to accept conspiracy beliefs and therefore less likely to adopt the vaccination behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Han
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Bang Zheng
- Department of Non‐communicable Disease EpidemiologyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- Ageing Epidemiology Research Unit, School of Public HealthImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Georgios Abakoumkin
- Laboratory of Psychology, Department of Early Childhood EducationUniversity of ThessalyVolosGreece
| | - N. Pontus Leander
- Department of Social and Organizational PsychologyUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
- Department of PsychologyWayne State UniversityDetroitMichiganUSA
| | - Wolfgang Stroebe
- Department of Social and Organizational PsychologyUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
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15
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Soulakova JN, Crockett LJ, Schmidt-Owens M, Schrimshaw EW. Correlates of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among U.S. College students. Prev Med Rep 2023; 34:102232. [PMID: 37234565 PMCID: PMC10197435 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hesitance toward COVID-19 vaccination has greatly decreased over the course of the pandemic in the U.S. However, some populations have lower vaccination rates than the general population. This study was conducted to identify correlates of being fully vaccinated (i.e., having received all doses required to be fully vaccinated) among college students using students' responses to the 2022 Spring American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment. The surveys were administered in March of 2022. The sample (n = 617) included 18-to-30-year-old students. Firth logistic regression models were performed that controlled for age, sex assigned at birth, and food security (at a 5% significance level). The model-assisted results indicated that being a member of sexual and gender minority communities, being a graduate student, and being concerned about someone close getting COVID-19 were positively associated with being fully vaccinated, while current use of any tobacco product and current use of e-cigarettes were negatively associated with being fully vaccinated (all p-values < 0.05). In addition, the percentage of fully vaccinated students was higher among transgender/gender non-binary students (95%) than among cisgender men and women (85-87%), and among sexual minority groups (93-97%) than among heterosexual/straight students (82%). Among the racial/ethnic groups considered, the percentage of fully vaccinated students was lowest among non-Hispanic Black/African American students (77%), but the racial/ethnic differences were not statistically significant (at 5% level). The study points to a critical need for development and implementation of tailored vaccination campaigns to help students from diverse communities, including tobacco users, make informed decisions and become fully vaccinated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia N. Soulakova
- Department of Population Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, 6900 Lake Nona Blvd., Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Lisa J. Crockett
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 315 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588-0308, USA
| | - Mary Schmidt-Owens
- Student Health Services, University of Central Florida, 4098 Libra Drive, Orlando, FL 32816, USA
| | - Eric W. Schrimshaw
- Department of Population Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, 6900 Lake Nona Blvd., Orlando, FL 32827, USA
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16
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Smith D, Zhu DT, Hawken S, Bota AB, Mithani SS, Marcon A, Pennycook G, Greyson D, Caulfield T, Graves F, Smith J, Wilson K. The influence of sociodemographic factors on COVID-19 vaccine certificate acceptance: A cross-sectional study. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2220628. [PMID: 37291793 PMCID: PMC10259333 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2220628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccine certificates have been implemented worldwide, aiming to promote vaccination rates and to reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, their use during the COVID-19 pandemic was controversial and has been criticized for infringing upon medical autonomy and individual rights. We administered a national online survey exploring social and demographic factors predicting the degree of public approval of vaccine certificates in Canada. We conducted a multivariate linear regression which revealed which factors were predictive of vaccine certificate acceptance in Canada. Self-reported minority status (p < .001), rurality (p < .001), political ideology (p < .001), age (p < .001), having children under 18 in the household (p < .001), education (p = .014), and income status (p = .034) were significant predictors of attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccine certificates. We observed the lowest vaccine-certificate approval among participants who: self-identify as a visible minority; live in rural areas; are politically conservative; are 18-34 years of age; have children under age 18 living in the household; have completed an apprenticeship or trades education; and those with an annual income between $100,000-$159,999. The present findings are valuable for their ability to inform the implementation of vaccine certificates during future pandemic scenarios which may require targeted communication between public health agencies and under-vaccinated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Smith
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David T. Zhu
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Steven Hawken
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - A. Brianne Bota
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Salima S. Mithani
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Alessandro Marcon
- Faculty of Law and School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Gordon Pennycook
- Hill/Levene Schools of Business, Department of Psychology, University of Regina, Regina, Canada
| | - Devon Greyson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Timothy Caulfield
- Faculty of Law and School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Frank Graves
- Public Opinion Research, EKOS Research Associates Inc, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Jeff Smith
- Public Opinion Research, EKOS Research Associates Inc, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Kumanan Wilson
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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17
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Leonardelli M, Mele F, Marrone M, Germinario CA, Tafuri S, Moscara L, Bianchi FP, Stefanizzi P. The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Vaccination Hesitancy: A Viewpoint. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1191. [PMID: 37515007 PMCID: PMC10386622 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination hesitancy is considered by the World Health Organization as a danger to global health. In recent years, vaccine hesitancy rates to COVID-19 have been studied worldwide. In our study, we aim to provide an overview of the concept of vaccine hesitancy, with regard to the post-COVID era, and to provide prevention and management strategies. A search of the international literature until March 2023 was conducted in the PubMed database. The 5723 papers found were divided into two groups: prior to the COVID-19 era and from 2021 onward. Papers about the vaccine hesitation phenomenon are becoming more common during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and following the marketing that the vaccine companies have carried out on the different types of COVID-19 vaccines. It is advisable that healthcare authorities, at the national and international level, as well as healthcare professionals, at the local level, should promote a series of activities to reduce the vaccine hesitancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Leonardelli
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Federica Mele
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Maricla Marrone
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Silvio Tafuri
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lorenza Moscara
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale Stefanizzi
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
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18
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Jumamil RB, Rutherford G. Use of the Improvement Index to Evaluate Equitable COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation in the San Francisco Bay Area. AJPM FOCUS 2023; 2:100075. [PMID: 36776788 PMCID: PMC9897871 DOI: 10.1016/j.focus.2023.100075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Introduction A social determinants of health index score or Vaccine Equity Metric was used to prioritize resources and address geographic disparities in California's vaccination coverage. We calculated the improvement index or percentage of the vaccination disparity gap closed to evaluate the impacts of this vaccination strategy in the San Francisco Bay Area during the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant surge. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study on San Francisco Bay Area ZIP codes during the Delta surge (July 6-October 5, 2021). Data came from the California Immunization Registry and the 2019 5-year American Community Survey. We used Spearman correlations to examine the relationships between Vaccine Equity Metric category and vaccine coverage and Kruskal-Wallis tests to compare vaccination improvement index across Vaccine Equity Metric categories. Results We studied 248 ZIP codes in the San Francisco Bay Area. Those with the lowest resources (Vaccine Equity Metric Level 1) had the highest absolute increase in vaccination coverage (14.3 vs 5.4 percentage points in Vaccine Equity Metric Level 4), although a contribution was higher starting vaccination rates in Level 4 ZIP codes with the greatest resources. The ratio of vaccination coverage between the lowest- and highest-resourced ZIP codes increased from 0.79 to 0.9, suggesting reduced disparity. However, it is difficult to interpret given wide differences in n (Level 1 n=8 vs Level 4 n=151). In contrast, the vaccination improvement index accounts for each Vaccine Equity Metric category's baseline vaccination; all were statistically similar (grand mean=41.5%, p=0.367), implying comparable improvement across all ZIP codes. Conclusions Using a Vaccine Equity Metric to identify and prioritize resources to vulnerable communities contributed to equitable vaccine allocation in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our study shows an example of the improvement index's advantages over conventional health equity metrics, such as absolute differences and relative effect measures, which can overestimate an intervention's impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riana B. Jumamil
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - George Rutherford
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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19
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Fisher KA, Nguyen N, Fouayzi H, Crawford S, Singh S, Dong M, Wittenberg R, Mazor KM. From COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy to Vaccine Acceptance: Results of a Longitudinal Survey. Public Health Rep 2023:333549231176006. [PMID: 37243439 DOI: 10.1177/00333549231176006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES COVID-19 vaccines are widely available, but uptake is suboptimal. To develop strategies to increase vaccination rates, we sought to (1) characterize adults initially hesitant to be vaccinated for COVID-19 who later received the vaccine and (2) identify factors associated with their vaccination decision. METHODS In January 2021, we conducted an online survey of US adults via Prolific that assessed vaccination intent, COVID-19-related knowledge and attitudes, and demographic characteristics. In May 2021, we recontacted respondents to assess vaccination status and factors influencing their vaccination decision. We used χ2 statistics and t tests to examine associations between respondents' vaccination status and their characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes. We analyzed reasons for vaccination using thematic analysis. RESULTS Of 756 initially vaccine-hesitant respondents, 529 (70.0%) completed the follow-up survey. Nearly half of those initially not sure about vaccination (47.3%, 112 of 237) were vaccinated at follow-up, while 21.2% (62 of 292) of those initially planning not to be vaccinated were vaccinated at follow-up. Of those initially not sure, higher educational attainment, greater knowledge of COVID-19, and a doctor's recommendation were associated with vaccination. Of those initially intending not to be vaccinated, male sex, Democratic political affiliation, receipt of an influenza shot within 5 years, being more worried about COVID-19, and having greater COVID-19 knowledge were associated with increased likelihood of being vaccinated. Of 167 respondents who gave reasons for vaccination, protecting oneself and others (59.9%), practical issues (29.9%), social influences (17.4%), and vaccine safety (13.8%) were the main reasons. CONCLUSION Providing information on the protective value of vaccination, implementing rules that make remaining unvaccinated burdensome, making vaccination easy, and providing social support may influence vaccine-hesitant adults to accept vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Fisher
- Meyers Health Care Institute, a joint endeavor of the UMass Chan Medical School, Reliant Medical Group, and Fallon Health, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ngoc Nguyen
- Meyers Health Care Institute, a joint endeavor of the UMass Chan Medical School, Reliant Medical Group, and Fallon Health, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Hassan Fouayzi
- Meyers Health Care Institute, a joint endeavor of the UMass Chan Medical School, Reliant Medical Group, and Fallon Health, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sybil Crawford
- Meyers Health Care Institute, a joint endeavor of the UMass Chan Medical School, Reliant Medical Group, and Fallon Health, Worcester, MA, USA
- Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sonal Singh
- Meyers Health Care Institute, a joint endeavor of the UMass Chan Medical School, Reliant Medical Group, and Fallon Health, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - May Dong
- T.H. Chan School of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ruth Wittenberg
- Meyers Health Care Institute, a joint endeavor of the UMass Chan Medical School, Reliant Medical Group, and Fallon Health, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kathleen M Mazor
- Meyers Health Care Institute, a joint endeavor of the UMass Chan Medical School, Reliant Medical Group, and Fallon Health, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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20
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Williams CJ, Kranzler EC, Luchman JN, Denison B, Fischer S, Wonder T, Ostby R, Vines M, Weinberg J, Petrun Sayers EL, Kurti AN, Trigger S, Hoffman L, Peck JFA. The Initial Relationship Between the United States Department of Health and Human Services' Digital COVID-19 Public Education Campaign and Vaccine Uptake: Campaign Effectiveness Evaluation. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e43873. [PMID: 36939670 PMCID: PMC10158813 DOI: 10.2196/43873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 1 million people in the United States have died of COVID-19. In response to this public health crisis, the US Department of Health and Human Services launched the We Can Do This public education campaign in April 2021 to increase vaccine confidence. The campaign uses a mix of digital, television, print, radio, and out-of-home channels to reach target audiences. However, the impact of this campaign on vaccine uptake has not yet been assessed. OBJECTIVE We aimed to address this gap by assessing the association between the We Can Do This COVID-19 public education campaign's digital impressions and the likelihood of first-dose COVID-19 vaccination among US adults. METHODS A nationally representative sample of 3642 adults recruited from a US probability panel was surveyed over 3 waves (wave 1: January to February 2021; wave 2: May to June 2021; and wave 3: September to November 2021) regarding COVID-19 vaccination, vaccine confidence, and sociodemographics. Survey data were merged with weekly paid digital campaign impressions delivered to each respondent's media market (designated market area [DMA]) during that period. The unit of analysis was the survey respondent-broadcast week, with respondents nested by DMA. Data were analyzed using a multilevel logit model with varying intercepts by DMA and time-fixed effects. RESULTS The We Can Do This digital campaign was successful in encouraging first-dose COVID-19 vaccination. The findings were robust to multiple modeling specifications, with the independent effect of the change in the campaign's digital dose remaining practically unchanged across all models. Increases in DMA-level paid digital campaign impressions in a given week from -30,000 to 30,000 increased the likelihood of first-dose COVID-19 vaccination by 125%. CONCLUSIONS Results from this study provide initial evidence of the We Can Do This campaign's digital impact on vaccine uptake. The size and length of the Department of Health and Human Services We Can Do This public education campaign make it uniquely situated to examine the impact of a digital campaign on COVID-19 vaccination, which may help inform future vaccine communication efforts and broader public education efforts. These findings suggest that campaign digital dose is positively associated with COVID-19 vaccination uptake among US adults; future research assessing campaign impact on reduced COVID-19-attributed morbidity and mortality and other benefits is recommended. This study indicates that digital channels have played an important role in the COVID-19 pandemic response. Digital outreach may be integral in addressing future pandemics and could even play a role in addressing nonpandemic public health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Monica Vines
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jessica Weinberg
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Elizabeth L Petrun Sayers
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Allison N Kurti
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Sarah Trigger
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, DC, United States
| | | | - Joshua F A Peck
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, DC, United States
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21
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Kreps SE, Kriner DL. Resistance to COVID-19 vaccination and the social contract: evidence from Italy. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:60. [PMID: 37087511 PMCID: PMC10122449 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00660-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Confronted with stalled vaccination efforts against COVID-19, many governments embraced mandates and other measures to incentivize vaccination that excluded the unvaccinated from aspects of social and economic life. Even still, many citizens remained unvaccinated. We advance a social contract framework for understanding who remains unvaccinated and why. We leverage both observational and individual-level survey evidence from Italy to study the relationship between vaccination status and social context, social trust, political partisanship, and adherence to core institutional structures such as the rule of law and collective commitments. We find that attitudes toward the rule of law and collective commitments outside the domain of vaccination are strongly associated with compliance with vaccine mandates and incentives. Partisanship also corresponds with vaccine behaviors, as supporters of parties whose leaders criticized aggressive policies to incentivize or mandate vaccination and emphasized individual liberty are least likely to comply. Our findings suggest appeals emphasizing individual benefits may be more effective than appeals emphasizing collective responsibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Kreps
- Department of Government, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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22
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El-Mohandes A, Wyka K, White TM, El-Sadr WM, Rauh L, Vasan A, Greene D, Rabin K, Ratzan SC, Chaudhri S, Kimball S, Lazarus JV. Comparison of Current Attitudes Toward COVID-19 Vaccination in New York City and the US Nationally. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:34-44. [PMID: 37390011 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2208071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccination has resulted in decreased hospitalization and mortality, particularly among those who have received a booster. As new effective pharmaceutical treatments are now available and requirements for non-pharmaceutical interventions (e.g. masking) are relaxed, perceptions of the risk and health consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection have decreased, risking potential resurgence. This June 2022 cross-sectional comparative study of representative samples in New York City (NYC, n = 2500) and the United States (US, n = 1000) aimed to assess differences in reported vaccine acceptance as well as attitudes toward vaccination mandates and new COVID-19 information and treatments. NYC respondents reported higher COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and support for vaccine mandate than U.S. respondents, yet lower acceptance for the booster dose. Nearly one-third of both NYC and U.S. respondents reported paying less attention to COVID-19 vaccine information than a year earlier, suggesting health communicators may need innovation and creativity to reach those with waning attention to COVID-19-related information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman El-Mohandes
- Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Katarzyna Wyka
- Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Trenton M White
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Lauren Rauh
- Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Ashwin Vasan
- Office of the Commissioner of Health, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York, USA
| | - Danielle Greene
- Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Kenneth Rabin
- Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Scott C Ratzan
- Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Simran Chaudhri
- Office of the Commissioner of Health, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York, USA
| | - Spencer Kimball
- Emerson Polling, Emerson College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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23
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The effect of vaccine mandate announcements on vaccine uptake in Canada: An interrupted time series analysis. Vaccine 2023; 41:2932-2940. [PMID: 37019696 PMCID: PMC10068515 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Introduction In 2021, the ten provinces in Canada enacted COVID-19 vaccine mandates that restricted access to non-essential businesses and services to those that could provide proof of full vaccination to decrease the risk of transmission and provide an incentive for vaccination. This analysis aims to examine the effects of vaccine mandate announcements on vaccine uptake over time by age group and province. Methods Aggregated data from the Canadian COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage Surveillance System (CCVCSS) were used to measure vaccine uptake (defined as the weekly proportion of individuals who received at least one dose) among those 12 years and older following the announcement of vaccination requirements. We performed an interrupted time series analysis using a quasi-binomial autoregressive model adjusted for the weekly number of new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths to model the effect of mandate announcements on vaccine uptake. Additionally, counterfactuals were produced for each province and age group to estimate vaccine uptake without mandate implementation. Results The times series models demonstrated significant increases in vaccine uptake following mandate announcement in BC, AB, SK, MB, NS, and NL. No trends in the effect of mandate announcements were observed by age group. In AB and SK, counterfactual analysis showed that announcement were followed by 8 % and 7 % (310,890 and 71,711 people, respectively) increases in vaccination coverage over the following 10 weeks. In MB, NS, and NL, there was at least a 5 % (63,936, 44,054, and 29,814 people, respectively) increase in coverage. Lastly, BC announcements were followed by a 4 % (203,300 people) increase in coverage. Conclusion Vaccine mandate announcements could have increased vaccine uptake. However, it is difficult to interpret this effect within the larger epidemiological context. Effectiveness of the mandates can be affected by pre-existing levels of uptake, hesitancy, timing of announcements and local COVID-19 activity.
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24
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Kranzler EC, Luchman JN, Williams CJ, Model TA, Ostby R, Vines M, Weinberg J, Petrun Sayers EL, Kurti AN, Trigger S, Hoffman L, Peck J. Recalled Exposure to COVID-19 Public Education Campaign Advertisements Predicts COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:144-155. [PMID: 37050887 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2181891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between recalled exposure to the We Can Do This COVID-19 Public Education Campaign (the Campaign) and COVID-19 vaccine confidence (the likelihood of vaccination or vaccine uptake) in the general population, including vaccine-hesitant adults (the "Movable Middle"). Analyses used three waves of a triannual, nationally representative panel survey of adults in the U.S. fielded from January to November 2021 (n = 3,446). Proportional odds regression results demonstrated a positive, statistically significant relationship between past 4-month Campaign recall and vaccine confidence, controlling for lagged reports of Campaign recall and vaccine confidence; concurrent and lagged fictional campaign recall; survey wave; and sociodemographics. Results indicated that as one moves from no Campaign recall to infrequent recall, there is a 29% increase in the odds of being in a higher vaccine confidence category. Findings offer evidence of the impact of a COVID-19 public education campaign on increasing vaccine confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissa C Kranzler
- Communication Campaign Research & Evaluation, Fors Marsh, Arlington, Virginia, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ronne Ostby
- Insights & Strategy, Fors Marsh, Arlington, Virginia, USA
| | - Monica Vines
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jessica Weinberg
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Elizabeth L Petrun Sayers
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Allison N Kurti
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Sarah Trigger
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Leah Hoffman
- Communication Campaign Research & Evaluation, Fors Marsh, Arlington, Virginia, USA
| | - Joshua Peck
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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25
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Howard MC. Relation of Personal Characteristics with Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Outcomes: Assessing the Mediating Role of Vaccine Hesitancy Dimensions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2023; 35:167-180. [PMID: 38596759 PMCID: PMC10903565 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2023.2180127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Recent findings suggest that the rate of certain cancers can be reduced by increasing human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage, resulting in considerable research interest on the antecedents of HPV vaccine receipt to identify avenues to promote vaccination. The current article continues this stream of research by (1) studying the three HPV vaccination outcomes of willingness, receipt, and word-of-mouth, (2) investigating the antecedent effects of sociodemographic characteristics, health insurance status, provider conversation, and political orientation, and (3) testing the mediating role of vaccine hesitancy dimensions using a recently developed conceptualization. We achieve these goals by conducting a cross-sectional study with 404 participants (Agemean = 37.64; AgeSD = 14.91; 57% female; 72% white; 100% located in U.S.). Our results show that provider conversations and political orientation had the most consistent and strong effects of the personal characteristics, whereas perceptions that vaccines pose health risks and perceptions that vaccines are not needed for healthy individuals produced the most consistent and strong effects of the vaccine hesitancy dimensions. Other personal characteristics and vaccine hesitancy dimensions also produced intermittent significant effects, including age, education, and race. Together, these results support that personal characteristics and vaccine hesitancy dimensions relate to a broader range of outcomes associated with HPV vaccination than previously known, and these results also support that the recently developed conceptualization of vaccine hesitancy is apt for understanding HPV vaccine perceptions. Our discussion concludes with highlighting avenues for future research and practice that can leverage our discovered relations to improve HPV vaccination outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt C. Howard
- Mitchell College of Business, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
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26
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Shook NJ, Oosterhoff B, Sevi B. A longitudinal assessment of variability in COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and psychosocial correlates in a national United States sample. Vaccine 2023; 41:1390-1397. [PMID: 36669969 PMCID: PMC9805898 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.12.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is not static. In order to develop effective vaccine uptake interventions, we need to understand the extent to which vaccine hesitancy fluctuates and identify factors associated with both between- and within-person differences in vaccine hesitancy. The goals of the current study were to assess the extent to which COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy varied at an individual level across time and to determine whether disgust sensitivity and germ aversion were associated with between- and within-person differences in COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. A national sample of U.S. adults (N = 1025; 516 woman; Mage = 46.34 years, SDage = 16.56, range: 18 to 85 years; 72.6 % White) completed six weekly online surveys (March 20 - May 3, 2020). Between-person mean COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy rates were relatively stable across the six-week period (range: 38-42 %). However, there was considerable within-person variability in COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Approximately, 40 % of the sample changed their vaccine hesitancy at least once during the six weeks. There was a significant between-person effect for disgust sensitivity, such that greater disgust sensitivity was associated with a lower likelihood of COVID-19 vaccine hesitance. There was also a significant within-person effect for germ aversion. Participants who experienced greater germ aversion for a given week relative to their own six week average were less likely to be COVID-19 vaccine hesitant that week relative to their own six-week average. This study provides important information on rapidly changing individual variability in COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy on a weekly basis, which should be taken into consideration with any efforts to decrease vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccine uptake. Further, these findings identify-two psychological factors (disgust sensitivity and germ aversion) with malleable components that could be leveraged in developing vaccine uptake interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J. Shook
- University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States of America,Corresponding author at: University of Connecticut, School of Nursing, 231 Glenbrook Road, Storrs, CT 06269, United States of America
| | | | - Barış Sevi
- University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States of America,MEF University, Istanbul, Turkey
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27
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Van Scoy LJ, Duda SH, Scott AM, Baker A, Costigan H, Loeffler M, Sherman MS, Brown MD. A mixed methods study exploring requests for unproven COVID therapies such as ivermectin and healthcare distrust in the rural South. Prev Med Rep 2023; 31:102104. [PMID: 36619802 PMCID: PMC9804965 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.102104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to contentious discourse regarding unproven COVID-19 therapies (UCTs),(e.g. ivermectin). Despite recommendations against it, ivermectin remains, in some areas, highly demanded. The goal of this study is to understand patient and provider perspectives about UCTs (e.g., ivermectin) and how responses to requests for UCTs impact healthcare distrust. This mixed methods observational study was conducted in a rural healthcare system in the Southern United States. Adults (n = 26) with a history of COVID-19 or clinicians (n = 8) from the same system were interviewed using questionnaires assessing healthcare distrust and qualitatively interviewed exploring perceptions about UCTs. Patient themes were: 1) Importance of anecdotal stories for decision-making; 2) Use of haphazard approaches to 'research'; 3) Strong distrust of government and healthcare organizations; 4) Inherent trust in local healthcare; 5) Decision-making as weighing pros/cons; and 6) Feeling a right to try medications. High survey medians indicated high distrust with differences of 8.5 points for those who requested/used ivermectin versus those who did not (p = 0.027). Clinician themes were: 1) Frustration when patients trust social media over clinicians; 2) Acceptance of community beliefs about UCTs; 3) Distrust originating outside of the healthcare system; 4) Feeling torn about prescribing UCTs to build trust; and 5) Variable educational strategies. When clinicians are perceived as aligned with government, this may void patients' trust of clinicians. Clinicians should leverage trust in local healthcare and distance themselves from distrusted information sources. Ethical questions arise regarding appropriateness of acquiescing to patient requests for ivermectin for building trust.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah H. Duda
- Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | | | - Arian Baker
- Colquitt Regional Medical Center, Moultrie, GA, United States
| | - Heather Costigan
- Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Morgan Loeffler
- Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
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28
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Chen K, Wilson-Barthes M, Harris JE, Galárraga O. Incentivizing COVID-19 vaccination among racial/ethnic minority adults in the United States: $209 per dose could convince the hesitant. HEALTH ECONOMICS REVIEW 2023; 13:4. [PMID: 36629981 PMCID: PMC9832714 DOI: 10.1186/s13561-023-00417-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than two years into the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, it remains unclear whether financial incentives can reduce vaccine hesitancy and improve uptake among key unvaccinated populations. This study estimated the willingness of racial/ethnic minority adults in the United States to accept financial incentives for COVID-19 vaccination and the minimum amount needed to vaccinate a sufficiently high percentage of this population. METHODS From August through September 2021, we conducted an online survey of 367 Black/African American and Hispanic patients, age ≥ 18 years, from 8 community health centers in Rhode Island. Contingent valuation questions assessed respondents' willingness-to-accept (WTA) incentives for COVID-19 vaccination using random-starting-points and iterative incentive offers of $5 to $50 per dose. Ordered logistic regression models examined associations between respondent characteristics and WTA. Predictive probabilities were modeled using both within-survey range and out-of-survey range incentive offer amounts and compared against vaccination thresholds needed to reach herd immunity. RESULTS Less than 30% of unvaccinated survey respondents were WTA an incentive of $50/dose for vaccination. Models using out-of-survey incentive offer amounts greater than $50 suggested that 85% of respondents would agree $140/dose (95% CI: $43-$236) could convince other people to accept vaccination, while $209/dose (95% CI: -$91-$509) would be needed for 85% of respondents to accept vaccination themselves. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this analysis may inform the design of incentive schemes aiming to reduce racial/ethnic disparities in vaccine and booster uptake, which will continue to be important as new variants of SARS-CoV-2 emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Chen
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Marta Wilson-Barthes
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - Jeffrey E. Harris
- Department of Economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142 USA
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02912 USA
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29
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Scheiber A, Prinster TB, Stecko H, Wang T, Scott S, Shah SH, Wyne K. COVID-19 Vaccination Rates and Vaccine Hesitancy Among Spanish-Speaking Free Clinic Patients. J Community Health 2023; 48:127-135. [PMID: 36315301 PMCID: PMC9619016 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-022-01150-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
We sought to assess COVID-19 vaccination rates, as well as attitudes and beliefs towards the vaccine, of patients in a Spanish-speaking student-run free clinic in Columbus, Ohio. A cross-sectional study was performed. Surveys were distributed to all individuals over 18 years who presented to La Clínica Latina between July, 2022 and September, 2022. A convenience sample was used: patients in the waiting room and their accompanying family members or friends were invited to participate. Subjects were excluded if under the age of 18 or over the age of 75, or if non-Spanish speaking. Of the 158 individuals who agreed to participate in our study, 146 responded to the question regarding vaccination status, revealing 90.4% of respondents had received a COVID-19 vaccination. Most respondents learned about the vaccine from social media (26.4%) or television (22.7%). The majority of participants sought answers to questions surrounding the vaccine by asking their doctor (49.1%). The most common reason among unvaccinated participants for not undergoing vaccination was fear of an adverse reaction to the vaccine (n = 11). We found that a large proportion (90.4%) of individuals seeking care at a Spanish-speaking free clinic were vaccinated against COVID-19. Our study also provides perspective on the means of health knowledge acquisition and behaviors in this predominantly Latinx patient population in central Ohio. We can utilize our results to optimize and tailor clinic services and initiatives for COVID-19 boosters to meet the needs of this community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Scheiber
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 370 W 9th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Teresa B. Prinster
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 370 W 9th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Hunter Stecko
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 370 W 9th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Tina Wang
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 370 W 9th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Sara Scott
- Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, Martinez, CA USA
| | - Summit H. Shah
- Department of Radiology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Kathleen Wyne
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH USA
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30
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Abstract
This article examines the association between partisanship and vaccination in the UK. The lower vaccination rates among Republicans in the US have been linked to ideology and President Trump's anti-vaccination rhetoric. By contrast, both ruling and opposition parties in the UK promoted the national vaccination program. Using two datasets at constituency and individual levels, we analyse whether there are partisan differences in uptake when vaccination garners cross-party support. Our findings contrast in important ways from the US case. First, the correlation between partisanship and vaccination is the opposite to that of the US: both Conservative constituencies and individuals are associated with higher vaccination rates than Labour across almost all age groups. Thus, right-leaning individuals do not necessarily vaccinate less, at least when their political party is in power and supportive of vaccination. Second, partisanship alone accounts for a large share of variation in vaccination rates, but this association appears largely driven by socio-economic and demographic differences: older and economically better off individuals and constituencies tend to be more vaccinated. Once these controls are included, the correlation between Conservative partisanship and vaccination shrinks substantially. Hence, the ideological source of the partisan gap in vaccination rates appears smaller than in the US.
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31
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The vaccination rift effect provides evidence that source vaccination status determines the rejection of calls to get vaccinated. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18947. [PMID: 36348015 PMCID: PMC9643387 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23291-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID vaccination protects individuals and helps end the pandemic, but a sizable minority in Western countries rejects the vaccine. Vaccination status should serve as a group membership, critical communication between groups undermines trust, and we accordingly suggest that calls to get vaccinated by vaccinated sources lead to defensive rejection instead of desired behavior change. We term this the vaccination rift effect. A unique collaboration with national print, online and TV news media yielded a large (N = 1170), age-representative sample of Austrian citizens for our fully randomized experiment. Participants exhibited the vaccination rift: They ascribed less constructive motives, d = 0.28, 95% CI [0.17; 0.40], experienced more threat, d = - 0.30, 95% CI [- 0.42; - 0.19], and ascribed worse personality characteristics to vaccinated (vs. unvaccinated) commenters, d = 0.17, 95% CI [0.06; 0.29]. Constructiveness consistently predicted behavioral measures of counterarguing and vaccination planning (indirect effects B = 0.033, SE = 0.013 and B = - 0.056, SE = 0.014). The vaccination rift was substantially stronger among the critical group of unvaccinated participants, ds = |0.39-0.52|, than among those fully vaccinated, ds = |0.08-0.17|. We discuss how to apply these psychological mechanics of the vaccination rift to public campaigns.
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32
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Williamson LD, Tarfa A. Examining the relationships between trust in providers and information, mistrust, and COVID-19 vaccine concerns, necessity, and intentions. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2033. [PMCID: PMC9639262 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14399-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
To facilitate maximum uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine, the roles of medical trust and mistrust of healthcare professionals must be examined. Previous work suggests that trust and mistrust may have differential impacts on vaccination intention via vaccine necessity and concerns. Multigroup structural equation modeling was utilized to test whether vaccine necessity and concerns mediated the associations between trust in providers and health information, mistrust of providers, and willingness to get the COVID-19 vaccine. The model was found to be invariant across Black and White respondents. Trust in providers and trust in healthcare information exerted indirect effects on intentions through vaccine necessity, while mistrust of providers exerted indirect effects through vaccine concerns. Unlike previous work, the forms of trust did not influence vaccine concerns. The findings have implications for future communication efforts from healthcare professionals and health messengers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillie D. Williamson
- grid.14003.360000 0001 2167 3675Department of Communication Arts, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 6050 Vilas Hall, 821 University Ave, Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Adati Tarfa
- grid.14003.360000 0001 2167 3675School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
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Lazarus JV, Romero D, Kopka CJ, Karim SA, Abu-Raddad LJ, Almeida G, Baptista-Leite R, Barocas JA, Barreto ML, Bar-Yam Y, Bassat Q, Batista C, Bazilian M, Chiou ST, Del Rio C, Dore GJ, Gao GF, Gostin LO, Hellard M, Jimenez JL, Kang G, Lee N, Matičič M, McKee M, Nsanzimana S, Oliu-Barton M, Pradelski B, Pyzik O, Rabin K, Raina S, Rashid SF, Rathe M, Saenz R, Singh S, Trock-Hempler M, Villapol S, Yap P, Binagwaho A, Kamarulzaman A, El-Mohandes A. A multinational Delphi consensus to end the COVID-19 public health threat. Nature 2022; 611:332-345. [PMID: 36329272 PMCID: PMC9646517 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05398-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Despite notable scientific and medical advances, broader political, socioeconomic and behavioural factors continue to undercut the response to the COVID-19 pandemic1,2. Here we convened, as part of this Delphi study, a diverse, multidisciplinary panel of 386 academic, health, non-governmental organization, government and other experts in COVID-19 response from 112 countries and territories to recommend specific actions to end this persistent global threat to public health. The panel developed a set of 41 consensus statements and 57 recommendations to governments, health systems, industry and other key stakeholders across six domains: communication; health systems; vaccination; prevention; treatment and care; and inequities. In the wake of nearly three years of fragmented global and national responses, it is instructive to note that three of the highest-ranked recommendations call for the adoption of whole-of-society and whole-of-government approaches1, while maintaining proven prevention measures using a vaccines-plus approach2 that employs a range of public health and financial support measures to complement vaccination. Other recommendations with at least 99% combined agreement advise governments and other stakeholders to improve communication, rebuild public trust and engage communities3 in the management of pandemic responses. The findings of the study, which have been further endorsed by 184 organizations globally, include points of unanimous agreement, as well as six recommendations with >5% disagreement, that provide health and social policy actions to address inadequacies in the pandemic response and help to bring this public health threat to an end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York City, NY, USA.
| | - Diana Romero
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Salim Abdool Karim
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Ricardo Baptista-Leite
- UNITE Global Parliamentarians Network, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Institute of Health Sciences (CIIS), Catholic University of Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Mauricio L Barreto
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Yaneer Bar-Yam
- New England Complex Systems Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Quique Bassat
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
- Manhiça Health Research Center (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Catalan Institute for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Consortium in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Batista
- Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Geneva, Switzerland
- Baraka Impact Finance, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Shu-Ti Chiou
- National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Gregory J Dore
- University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - George F Gao
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Lawrence O Gostin
- The O'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Jose L Jimenez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES), University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | | | | | - Mojca Matičič
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martin McKee
- The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | - Bary Pradelski
- French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), Grenoble, France
| | | | - Kenneth Rabin
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York City, NY, USA
| | - Sunil Raina
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Sabina Faiz Rashid
- James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Rocio Saenz
- University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Sudhvir Singh
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Sonia Villapol
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peiling Yap
- International Digital Health & AI Research Collaborative (I-DAIR), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Ayman El-Mohandes
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York City, NY, USA
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Adzrago D, Sulley S, Ormiston CK, Mamudu L, Williams F. Differences in the Perceived Likelihood of Receiving COVID-19 Vaccine. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192113723. [PMID: 36360602 PMCID: PMC9653770 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192113723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
There are limited studies on the perceived likelihood of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine among the general US population and its subpopulations. We examined the association between the perceived likelihood of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine with the self-reported likelihood of contracting COVID-19, social-distancing stress, COVID-19 diagnosis status, mental health disorders, and sociodemographic characteristics. The data were collected using a national cross-sectional survey (N = 5404) between 13 May 2021 and 9 January 2022. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed. Setting: United States. Participants: Adults aged ≥ 18 years. The majority of US adults (67.34%) indicated they intended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. There was a decreased perceived likelihood of getting vaccinated associated with those aged 18-49 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 0.29-59; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.20-0.85); with a less than college education (AOR = 0.37-58; 95% CI = 0.28-0.68); with no health insurance (AOR = 0.48; 95% CI = 0.40, 0.58); with no perceived likelihood of contracting COVID-19 (AOR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.68, 0.89); and with anxiety/depression (AOR = 0.67; 95% CI = 0.59, 0.76). Black/African Americans had a lower perceived likelihood of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine (AOR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.71, 0.98), while Asians (AOR = 1.92; 95% CI = 1.35, 2.74) and Hispanics/Latinos (AOR = 1.34; 95% CI = 1.03, 1.74) had a higher perceived likelihood compared with Whites. Individuals reporting social distancing as stressful (AOR = 1.21; 95% CI = 1.01, 1.45) were associated with an increased perceive likelihood of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Our study showed that younger adults, Black/African Americans, and those with a less than college education, no health insurance, or anxiety/depression may be less likely to receive vaccination. Future research should examine the explanatory mechanisms contributing to the lower perceived likelihood of vaccination among these groups, such as barriers to vaccine education or vaccine access. Public health interventions should prioritize these populations to improve vaccination rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Adzrago
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, The University of Texas School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Saanie Sulley
- National Healthy Start Association, Washington, DC 20005, USA
| | - Cameron K. Ormiston
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lohuwa Mamudu
- Department of Public Health, California State University, Fullerton, CA 92831, USA
| | - Faustine Williams
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence:
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Wang X, Huang YHC, Cai Q. Increasing Vaccination: Psychological Characteristics of COVID-19 Vaccine Advocates, Converts, and Resisters in Hong Kong. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1744. [PMID: 36298609 PMCID: PMC9611256 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10101744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study uses longitudinal data to profile psychological characteristics of COVID-19 vaccine advocates, resisters, and converts. We conducted a two-wave longitudinal survey (Nwave1 = 3190, Nwave2 = 2193) in Hong Kong using stratified quota sampling. Among those who completed both survey waves, 458 (30.5%) were classified as vaccine advocates, 295 (19.7%) were vaccine resisters, and 621 (41.4%) were vaccine converts (who shifted away from hesitancy). Compared to advocates, resisters were more likely to be female, those without children, between 40 and 49 years old, democratic voters, and those with poor health. Highly educated individuals, non-democrats, and those in good health were more likely to convert from hesitancy to acceptance. Public trust in authorities and confidence in vaccine were the primary factors related to vaccine uptake. Those who were more confident in vaccine, those who increased in information consumption and risk perceptions towards the pandemic, and those who decreased in their trust of health professionals were more likely to convert. Our study complements the emerging global picture of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance by focusing on changes in vaccine hesitancy during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yi-Hui Christine Huang
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
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Lun P, Gao J, Tang B, Yu CC, Jabbar KA, Low JA, George PP. A social ecological approach to identify the barriers and facilitators to COVID-19 vaccination acceptance: A scoping review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272642. [PMID: 36191018 PMCID: PMC9529136 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has caused substantial impact on population health, healthcare, and social and economic systems around the world. Several vaccines have been developed to control the pandemic with varying effectiveness and safety profiles. One of the biggest obstacles to implementing successful vaccination programmes is vaccine hesitancy stemming from concerns about effectiveness and safety. This review aims to identify the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and acceptance and to organize the factors using the social ecological framework. METHODS We adopted the five-stage methodological framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley to guide this scoping review. Selection criteria was based on the PICo (Population, Phenomenon of interest and Context) framework. Factors associated with acceptance and hesitancy were grouped into the following: intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, community, and public policy factors using the social ecological framework. RESULTS Fifty-one studies fulfilled this review's inclusion criteria. Most studies were conducted in Europe and North America, followed by Asia and the Middle East. COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy rates varied across countries. Some common demographic factors associated with hesitancy were younger age, being female, having lower than college education, and having a lower income level. Most of the barriers and facilitators to acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccines were intrapersonal factors, such as personal characteristics and preferences, concerns with COVID-19 vaccines, history/perception of general vaccination, and knowledge of COVID-19 and health. The remaining interpersonal, institution, community, and public policy factors were grouped into factors identified as barriers and facilitators. CONCLUSION Our review identified barriers and facilitators of vaccine acceptance and hesitancy and organised them using the social ecological framework. While some barriers and facilitators such as vaccine safety are universal, differentiated barriers might exist for different target groups, which need to be understood if they are to be addressed to maximize vaccine acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penny Lun
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute Limited, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jonathan Gao
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute Limited, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bernard Tang
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute Limited, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chou Chuen Yu
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute Limited, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - James Alvin Low
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute Limited, Singapore, Singapore
- Geriatric Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pradeep Paul George
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute Limited, Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Health Services and Outcomes Research, National Healthcare Group, Singapore, Singapore
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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Options for Covid-19 Vaccines in Bulgaria – Acceptance and Hesitance. ACTA MEDICA BULGARICA 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/amb-2022-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to take thousands of lives every day. Vaccine prophylaxis has been shown to be highly effective in both controlling and eradicating a number of communicable diseases, in particular COVID-19, as well as in preventing hospitalization and death. Globally, the level of vaccination varies widely. The aim of the present study was to study the attitude to vaccination against COVID-19 among the adult population in the Republic of Bulgaria. An online-based survey was performed to gather information on the attitudes of the population regarding the use of COVID-19 vaccines and the reasons for refusal. The survey includes 662 respondents from all over Bulgaria and covers the period from October 12, 2021 to October 22, 2021.
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Predictors of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance among Healthcare Workers in Nigeria. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10101645. [PMID: 36298509 PMCID: PMC9610788 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10101645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) are regarded as role models regarding health-related issues, including vaccination. Therefore, it is essential to identify the predictors for COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among them. A cross-sectional study to assess the risk perception, attitudes and knowledge of HCWs toward COVID-19 vaccination was carried out. A total of 710 responses were received between September 2021 and March 2022, from HCWs in the Northern, Western and Eastern regions of Nigeria. Cross tabulations were performed to determine statistical relations between sociodemographic variables, knowledge, attitudes and risk perceptions concerning COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the predictive variables for COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Statistical analyses were performed and P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant at a CI of 95%. Results showed that 59.3% of the participants were amenable to COVID-19 vaccines. Multinomial regression analysis identified 14 variables at α < 0.05 as predictors for vaccine acceptance. Male HCWs were 2.8 times more likely to accept the vaccine than their female counterparts. HCWs that were knowledgeable of the different kinds of vaccines, were willing to recommend the vaccines to their patients, believed that the timing of COVID-19 vaccination was appropriate and had recent vaccination history within three years were 1.6, 24.9, 4.4 and 3.1 times more likely to take COVID-19 vaccine than those not sure. The study found a relatively high trust (51.3%) in the Nigerian Center for Disease Control (NCDC) for information regarding COVID-19 vaccines. Therefore, the NDCD should disseminate more robust insights regarding the safety profiles of various COVID-19 vaccines.
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Vaala SE, Ritter MB, Palakshappa D. Framing Effects on US Adults’ Reactions to COVID-19 Public Health Messages: Moderating Role of Source Trust. THE AMERICAN BEHAVIORAL SCIENTIST 2022:00027642221124664. [PMCID: PMC9482882 DOI: 10.1177/00027642221124664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Increasing politicization of health guidance and fluctuating trust in public health institutions have challenged effective coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health communication in the United States. Applying the extended parallel process model, this research reports findings from two online survey experiments conducted at different points in the pandemic regarding two advocated risk reduction behaviors. Analyses test US adults’ emotional and argument strength reactions to experimental tweets attributed to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention which vary with regards to advocated behavior (social distancing; vaccination), emotional appeal, wellbeing orientation (individual vs. collective), and content frame (health vs. economic outcomes). Trust in the CDC is treated as a potential moderator. Results of path analyses indicated that emotional appeal and content frame had little impact on emotional or cognitive responses to the social distancing tweets, though unvaccinated adults with low trust in the CDC experienced greater hope and fear responses to tweets emphasizing collective benefits of vaccination. Hope reactions in both studies predicted greater perceived response efficacy for the advocated behavior, particularly among those with low CDC trust, while message annoyance undermined efficacy among low trust participants. Particularly among adults with low trust in the CDC, fear reactions led to reduced efficacy. Perceived efficacy of vaccination predicted greater intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, controlling for prior intention. Messages which inspire hope with regards to risk reduction behaviors and include sound arguments may be more motivating than fear-appeal messages, particularly among individuals with low levels of trust in public health institutions.
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Childers-Strawbridge S, Eiden AL, Nyaku MK, Bhatti AA. Attitudes and Beliefs around the Value of Vaccination in the United States. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091470. [PMID: 36146548 PMCID: PMC9501875 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the benefits of immunization, differences in attitudes persist toward vaccines. We captured individuals’ perceptions of vaccines and vaccination across the United States (US) to inform vaccine-related policy development. A survey was completed by 5000 respondents from 10 states. Respondents were screened for inclusion, which included individuals ≥ 18 years of age that had received a vaccine or were unvaccinated but indicated a favorable or neutral attitude towards vaccinations. Participants were excluded if they indicated they did not support the idea of vaccinations. Questions explored perceptions of vaccines for all age groups. Among unvaccinated individuals, the most common concerns were about safety (38%). Most respondents (95%) highlighted the importance of state immunization programs for disease prevention. Access to health and immunization records and immunization information systems were important to 96% and 88% of respondents, respectively, for future health planning. Doctors and healthcare professionals (HCPs) were considered trusted sources for vaccine information (95%). Overall, respondents recognized the importance of vaccination, but documented concerns among the unvaccinated indicated a need for greater promotion regarding vaccine safety. Doctors and HCPs, as trusted information sources, should continue to and increasingly advocate for the importance of immunization to increase vaccine uptake.
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Nazir A, Masood W, Ahmad S, Nair AM, Aborode AT, Khan HD, Farid S, Raza MA, Audah KA. Rise of syphilis surge amidst COVID-19 pandemic in the USA: A neglected concern. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 80:104239. [PMID: 35937637 PMCID: PMC9339075 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Burkhardt MC, Real FJ, DeBlasio D, Beck AF, Reyner A, Rosen BL. Increasing Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Uptake in Pediatric Primary Care by Offering Vaccine to Household Members. J Pediatr 2022; 247:150-154.e1. [PMID: 35447123 PMCID: PMC9014639 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric primary care is a trusted source for treatment and information. In the 6 months after coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines became available for adolescents, we administered 2286 doses (1270 to patients; 1016 to household members) to 1376 individuals (64.1% Black; 10.1% Latinx), providing opportunities to address family concerns in a familiar location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Carol Burkhardt
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH; Division of General & Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH.
| | - Francis J. Real
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH,Division of General & Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Dominick DeBlasio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH,Division of General & Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Andrew F. Beck
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH,Division of General & Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH,James M. Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Allison Reyner
- James M. Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Brittany L. Rosen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH,Division of Adolescent and Transition Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
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Samanta S, Banerjee J, Kar SS, Ali KM, Giri B, Pal A, Dash SK. Awareness, knowledge and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine among the people of West Bengal, India: A web-based survey. VACUNAS (ENGLISH EDITION) 2022. [PMCID: PMC9472583 DOI: 10.1016/j.vacune.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Rapid vaccination is the only way to fight against COVID-19.Vaccine hesitancy is the major barrier against this strategy. The main objective of this cross-sectional study was to analyze COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in the general population of West Bengal (India), as well as to investigate the factors that were independently associated with people's desire to receive the vaccine. Methods An online questionnaire was distributed by email, Whatsapp, and other social media platforms, and the responses were analyzed using the SPSS (Version 20) software. Results We conducted a web-based survey in West Bengal, India (N = 803), and accumulated information on individuals' desire to adopt vaccine against COVID-19, views about the virus's effectiveness, and many knowledge-based socio-demographic factors that potentially impact the overall vaccination efforts. We found that, 12.08% of participants do not believe that vaccination against COVID-19 is necessary, but among the rest of the population, 44.33% of individuals are willing to be vaccinated once the vaccine is available, whereas 39.60% of the population responded that they will not be vaccinated immediately but will do so later. Conclusions Despite the participants' strong vaccine willingness, our findings revealed a troubling degree of lake of awareness and insignificant scientific knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated vaccination programme. Vaccination hesitancy is not a barrier in this survey region, but poor vaccine availability and a lack of awareness campaigns may instill unfavorable beliefs in those who refuse to be vaccinated.
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Borga LG, Clark AE, D'Ambrosio C, Lepinteur A. Characteristics associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12435. [PMID: 35859048 PMCID: PMC9298705 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16572-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding what lies behind actual COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is fundamental to help policy makers increase vaccination rates and reach herd immunity. We use June 2021 data from the COME-HERE survey to explore the predictors of actual vaccine hesitancy in France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain and Sweden. We estimate a linear-probability model with a rich set of covariates and address issues of common-method variance. 13% of our sample say they do not plan to be vaccinated. Post-Secondary education, home-ownership, having an underlying health condition, and one standard-deviation higher age or income are all associated with lower vaccine hesitancy of 2-4.5% points. Conservative-leaning political attitudes and a one standard-deviation lower degree of confidence in the government increase this probability by 3 and 6% points respectively. Vaccine hesitancy in Spain and Sweden is significantly lower than in the other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyousew G Borga
- Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, 4366, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Andrew E Clark
- Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, 4366, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Paris School of Economics - CNRS, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Conchita D'Ambrosio
- Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, 4366, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Anthony Lepinteur
- Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, 4366, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
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Eshel Y, Kimhi S, Marciano H, Adini B. Conspiracy claims and secret intentions as predictors of psychological coping and vaccine uptake during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 151:311-318. [PMID: 35526447 PMCID: PMC9057981 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 vaccination campaign led to hesitancy, deferment and un-resolving resistance of certain groups or individuals worldwide. Reasons for these reactions include distrust in the COVID-19 vaccine that was developed rapidly, lack of trust in governing entities and unrealistic optimism (UO). Each of these reasons may involve claims of secret intentions or conspiracy theories. The present study examined the role of three different explanations for vaccine hesitancy and rejection, in predicting psychological coping, distress, and level of vaccine uptake, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Blaming the vaccine and its producers, blaming the state's authorities, and expressing criticism in UO terms, which may hint of some secret intention that underlies the vaccination request. The research was conducted on a sample of 2002 Israeli adults who responded to an anonymous questionnaire about vaccine hesitancy and psychological coping. We assumed that conspiracy theories aimed at the medical and the governing authorities, and the UO insinuations of covert intentions of these authorities, represent two different psychological processes. UO responses to adversity are aimed at reducing anxiety attributing covert intentions to the authorities and the pharmaceutical companies is an expression of anxiety. Three major hypotheses are examined. First, stronger criticism of the vaccine will be associated with a lower level of vaccination. Second, more extreme criticism of the political and the medical authorities for requesting vaccination, raised as a reason for vaccine hesitation will positively predict a higher level of anxiety and negatively predict the extent of good psychological coping. A stronger opposition to the vaccine in terms of UO will be positively associated with a greater scope of resilience and coping and will be negatively linked to indicators of distress. Results supported these hypotheses and enhanced the ongoing discussion on the contribution of UO to psychological adjustment, by illustrating its beneficial effects on this adjustment. Conspiracy Theories and Secret Intentions as Predictors of Psychological Coping and Vaccine Uptake throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic in Israel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohanan Eshel
- Stress and Resilience Research Center, Tel Hai and University of Haifa, Israel.
| | - Shaul Kimhi
- ResWell - Multinational Resilience & Well-being Research Collaboration, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Hadas Marciano
- Stress and Resilience Research Center, Tel-Hai College, The Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making (IIPDM), University of Haifa, Israel. https://
| | - Bruria Adini
- Head of the Department of Emergency and Disaster Management, ResWell -Multinational Resilience & Well-being Research Collaboration, School of Public Health, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
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Labotka D, Gelman SA. Scientific and Folk Theories of Viral Transmission: A Comparison of COVID-19 and the Common Cold. Front Psychol 2022; 13:929120. [PMID: 35837651 PMCID: PMC9274272 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.929120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease transmission is a fruitful domain in which to examine how scientific and folk theories interrelate, given laypeople’s access to multiple sources of information to explain events of personal significance. The current paper reports an in-depth survey of U.S. adults’ (N = 238) causal reasoning about two viral illnesses: a novel, deadly disease that has massively disrupted everyone’s lives (COVID-19), and a familiar, innocuous disease that has essentially no serious consequences (the common cold). Participants received a series of closed-ended and open-ended questions probing their reasoning about disease transmission, with a focus on causal mechanisms underlying disease contraction, transmission, treatment, and prevention; non-visible (internal) biological processes; and ontological frameworks regarding what kinds of entities viruses are. We also assessed participants’ attitudes, such as their trust in scientific experts and willingness to be vaccinated. Results indicated complexity in people’s reasoning, consistent with the co-existence of multiple explanatory frameworks. An understanding of viral transmission and viral replication existed alongside folk theories, placeholder beliefs, and lack of differentiation between viral and non-viral disease. For example, roughly 40% of participants who explained illness in terms of the transmission of viruses also endorsed a non-viral folk theory, such as exposure to cold weather or special foods as curative. Additionally, participants made use of competing modes of construal (biological, mechanical, and psychological) when explaining how viruses operate, such as framing the immune system response (biological) as cells trying to fight off the virus (psychological). Indeed, participants who displayed greater knowledge about viral transmission were significantly more likely to anthropomorphize bodily processes. Although comparisons of COVID-19 and the common cold revealed relatively few differences, the latter, more familiar disease elicited consistently lower levels of accuracy and greater reliance on folk theories. Moreover, for COVID-19 in particular, accuracy positively correlated with attitudes (trusting medical scientists and taking the disease more seriously), self-protective behaviors (such as social distancing and mask-wearing), and willingness to be vaccinated. For both diseases, self-assessed knowledge about the disease negatively predicted accuracy. The results are discussed in relation to challenges for formal models of explanatory reasoning.
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Siewchaisakul P, Sarakarn P, Nanthanangkul S, Longkul J, Boonchieng W, Wungrath J. Role of literacy, fear and hesitancy on acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine among village health volunteers in Thailand. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270023. [PMID: 35749368 PMCID: PMC9231694 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The roles of literacy, fear and hesitancy were investigated for acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine (AV) types among village health volunteers (VHVs) in Thailand. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using an unidentified online questionnaire to assess literacy, fear and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among Thai VHVs between 1 and 15 October 2021. The questionnaire was developed based on the HLVa-IT (Health Literacy Vaccinale degli adulti in Italiano) for vaccine literacy (VL), using an adult Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (aVHS) for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (VH) and Fear of COVID-19 scale (FCoV-19S) for the distress of COVID-19 vaccine. The effects of VL, VH and vaccine fear (VF) on AV were estimated using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 5,312 VHVs completed the questionnaire. After adjustment with variables in the multivariable analysis, the VL score was insignificantly associated with increased vaccination (aOR = 1.002; (95%CI: 0.994-1.01)), while VF and VH significantly decreased the chance of vaccination, aOR = 0.966 (95%CI: 0.953-0.978) and aOR = 0.969; (95%CI: 0.960-0.979), respectively and VF and VH were negatively associated with AV for all types of vaccine preference, with VL showing a reverse relationship only for mRNA-based vaccines. CONCLUSION VL may not increase AV among VHVs. To increase attitudes toward receiving COVID-19 vaccination in Thailand, the government and health-related organizations should instigate policies to significantly reduce VF and VH among Thai VHVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallop Siewchaisakul
- Faculty of Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- The Center of Excellence in Community Health Informatics, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pongdech Sarakarn
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Faculty of Public Health, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- ASEAN Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research Group, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Sirinya Nanthanangkul
- Research Publishing and Academic support Department, Udonthani Cancer Hospital, Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, Nong Phai, Thailand
| | - Jirapat Longkul
- Faculty of Public health, Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Waraporn Boonchieng
- Faculty of Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- The Center of Excellence in Community Health Informatics, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Jukkrit Wungrath
- Faculty of Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Ritschl V, Eibensteiner F, Mosor E, Omara M, Sperl L, Nawaz FA, Siva Sai C, Cenanovic M, Devkota HP, Hribersek M, De R, Klager E, Schaden E, Kletecka-Pulker M, Völkl-Kernstock S, Willschke H, Aufricht C, Atanasov AG, Stamm T. Mandatory Vaccination Against COVID-19: Twitter Poll Analysis on Public Health Opinion. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e35754. [PMID: 35617671 PMCID: PMC9217155 DOI: 10.2196/35754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization Emergency Committee declared the rapid worldwide spread of COVID-19 a global health emergency. By December 2020, the safety and efficacy of the first COVID-19 vaccines had been demonstrated. However, international vaccination coverage rates have remained below expectations (in Europe at the time of manuscript submission). Controversial mandatory vaccination is currently being discussed and has already been introduced in some countries (Austria, Greece, and Italy). We used the Twitter survey system as a viable method to quickly and comprehensively gather international public health insights on mandatory vaccination against COVID-19. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to better understand the public's perception of mandatory COVID-19 vaccination in real time using Twitter polls. METHODS Two Twitter polls were developed (in the English language) to seek the public's opinion on the possibility of mandatory vaccination. The polls were pinned to the Digital Health and Patient Safety Platform's (based in Vienna, Austria) Twitter timeline for 1 week in mid-November 2021, 3 days after the official public announcement of mandatory COVID-19 vaccination in Austria. Twitter users were asked to participate and retweet the polls to reach the largest possible audience. RESULTS Our Twitter polls revealed two extremes on the topic of mandatory vaccination against COVID-19. Almost half of the 2545 respondents (n=1246, 49%) favor mandatory vaccination, at least in certain areas. This attitude contrasts with the 45.7% (n=1162) who categorically reject mandatory vaccination. Over one-quarter (n=621, 26.3%) of participating Twitter users said they would never get vaccinated, as reflected by the current Western European and North American vaccination coverage rate. Concatenating interpretation of these two polls should be done cautiously as participating populations might substantially differ. CONCLUSIONS Mandatory vaccination against COVID-19 (in at least certain areas) is favored by less than 50%, whereas it is opposed by almost half of the surveyed Twitter users. Since (social) media strongly influences public perceptions and views, and social media discussions and surveys are specifically susceptible to the "echo chamber effect," the results should be interpreted as a momentary snapshot. Therefore, the results of this study need to be complemented by long-term surveys to maintain their validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Ritschl
- Section for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Fabian Eibensteiner
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Erika Mosor
- Section for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maisa Omara
- Section for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lisa Sperl
- Section for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Faisal A Nawaz
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | | | - Hari Prasad Devkota
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- Program for Leading Graduate Schools, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Mojca Hribersek
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ronita De
- Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, West Bengal, India
| | - Elisabeth Klager
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva Schaden
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Kletecka-Pulker
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute for Ethics and Law in Medicine, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sabine Völkl-Kernstock
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Harald Willschke
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute for Ethics and Law in Medicine, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Aufricht
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Atanas G Atanasov
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec, Poland
| | - Tanja Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
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Davis TC, Beyl R, Bhuiyan MAN, Davis AB, Vanchiere JA, Wolf MS, Arnold CL. COVID-19 Concerns, Vaccine Acceptance and Trusted Sources of Information among Patients Cared for in a Safety-Net Health System. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10060928. [PMID: 35746535 PMCID: PMC9227546 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10060928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined COVID-19 concerns, vaccine acceptance, and trusted sources of information among patients in a safety-net health system in Louisiana. The participants were surveyed via structured telephone interviews over nine months in 2021. Of 204 adult participants, 65% were female, 52% were Black, 44.6% were White, and 46.5% were rural residents. The mean age was 53 years. The participants viewed COVID-19 as a serious public health threat (8.6 on 10-point scale). Black adults were more likely to perceive the virus as a threat than White adults (9.4 vs. 7.6 p < 0.0001), urban residents more than rural (9.0 vs. 8.2 p = 0.02), females more than males (8.9 vs. 8.1 p = 0.03). The majority (66.7%) had gotten the COVID-19 vaccine, with females being more likely than males (74.7 vs. 54.5% p = 0.02). There was no difference by race or rural residence. Overall, participants reported that physicians were the most trusted source of COVID-19 vaccine information (77.6%); followed by the CDC/FDA (50.5%), State Department of Health (41.4%), pharmacists (37.1%), nurses (36.7%); only 3.8% trusted social media. All sources were more trusted among black adults than White adults except family and social media. These findings could help inform efforts to design trustworthy public health messaging and clinical communication about the virus and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry C. Davis
- Department of Medicine and Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-318-675-8694
| | - Robbie Beyl
- Biostatistics & Analysis, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA;
| | - Mohammad A. N. Bhuiyan
- Department of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA; (M.A.N.B.); (A.B.D.)
| | - Adrienne B. Davis
- Department of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA; (M.A.N.B.); (A.B.D.)
| | - John A. Vanchiere
- Department of Pediatrics, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA;
| | - Michael S. Wolf
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
| | - Connie L. Arnold
- Department of Medicine and Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71103, USA;
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50
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Morra CN, Adkins-Jablonsky SJ, Barnes ME, Pirlo OJ, Almehmi SE, Convers BJ, Dang DL, Howell ML, Fleming R, Raut SA. Expert-Led Module Improves Non-STEM Undergraduate Perception of and Willingness to Receive COVID-19 Vaccines. Front Public Health 2022; 10:816692. [PMID: 35664101 PMCID: PMC9157538 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.816692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As evidence mounted that existing prevention methods would be insufficient to end the COVID-19 pandemic, it became clear that vaccines would be critical to achieve and maintain reduced rates of infection. However, vaccine-hesitant sentiments have become widespread, particularly in populations with lower scientific literacy. The non-STEM major (called non-major) college students represent one such population who rely on one or more science classes to develop their scientific literacy and thus, become candidates of interest for the success of the COVID-19 vaccine campaign. As these students have fewer opportunities to learn how to identify reputable scientific sources or judge the validity of novel scientific findings, it is particularly important that these skills are included in the science courses offered to non-majors. Two concurrent non-major biology courses (N = 98) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in Spring 2021 completed Likert questionnaires with open-ended questions prior to and after an expert-led Vaccine Awareness educational intervention addressing vaccine-related concerns. In the module, experts gave presentations about COVID-19 related to microbiology, epidemiological factors, and professional experiences relating to COVID-19. Ten students agreed to participate in post-semester one-on-one interviews. Student interviews revealed that students perceived guest lecturers as providing more information and assurance. Questionnaire data showed an increase in student willingness to accept a COVID-19 vaccine as well as increased student perception of the COVID-19 vaccines as both safe and effective (Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test, p < 0.05). However, the questionnaire data revealed 10 of 98 students remained vaccine-resistant, and these students expressed insufficient research and side effects as leading vaccination concerns. Overall, we show expert-led modules can be effective in increasing non-majors willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines. Future research should explore the experiences of non-majors and guest lectures, particularly as they relate to vaccination and vaccine concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina N Morra
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Sarah J Adkins-Jablonsky
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States.,Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL, United States
| | - M Elizabeth Barnes
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, United States
| | - Obadiah J Pirlo
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Sloan E Almehmi
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Bianca J Convers
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Derek L Dang
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Michael L Howell
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Ryleigh Fleming
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Samiksha A Raut
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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