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Timlin U, Rautio A. Communicating and complying with COVID-19 actions in northernmost Finland. Int J Circumpolar Health 2024; 83:2313822. [PMID: 38351741 PMCID: PMC10868415 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2024.2313822] [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: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In Finland, national and local restrictions were implemented to control the COVID-19 pandemic after the increase of cases, and it changed the everyday life of people. The purpose of our study was to explore public health communication and compliance related to the COVID-19 public health instructions, recommendations, and restrictions in two municipalities in Northernmost Finland, Inari and Utsjoki. We interviewed the representatives and operators working in the municipalities to understand and learn about their experiences. Results suggested that residents complied with different COVID-19 actions, and overall, communication was found to be good. Altogether, guidelines were easy to follow but required the individual's own activity. Guidelines were also published in Sámi language. National border restrictions were a challenging part of communication and information, and guidelines were found to be contradictory at times. National border actions required resources from the municipalities, e.g. testing, which caused more demands on municipalities operating with already low resources. In the future, it is essential to consider the local situation of the pandemic and harmonise actions and put effort on local cooperation. It is important to invest in clear communication, which reaches people of all ages, and in three Sámi languages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulla Timlin
- Arctic Health, Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Arja Rautio
- Arctic Health, Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu and University of the Arctic, Finland
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Timlin U, Rautio A. COVID-19 impacts in Northernmost Finland. Int J Circumpolar Health 2024; 83:2314368. [PMID: 38359161 PMCID: PMC10877646 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2024.2314368] [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: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic challenged our lives during the years 2020-2022. Impacts could be seen in everyday life, both locally and nationally, through economic, mental and social elements. However, these effects varied depending on the life situation of individuals. This paper aims to gather information from the representatives and operators working in two Finnish municipalities, Inari and Utsjoki, to understand and learn about their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The data (20 interviews) were collected between December 2021 and February 2022 and analysed following the principles of the qualitative content analysis. The results suggest that the effects of COVID-19 emerged through issues related to the national border between Finland and Norway, economic challenges, and the pressure that people experienced. However, despite challenges, people were supported by everyday life and a connection to nature, communality and close co-operation. Additionally, local needs were highlighted among participants. The results provide a deeper understanding about the public health impacts in these Northernmost municipalities and can therefore be utilised in future development work. They also provide relevant information on the experiences of Sámi people, and specific views related to Sámi people can be recognised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulla Timlin
- Arctic Health, Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Arja Rautio
- Arctic Health, Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Arctic Health, Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Arctic, Oulu, Finland
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3
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Rogers R, Pan M, Hartigan SE, Chang YT, Donson JE. Workplace Deceptions During the Pandemic: Differences in Conspiracy Beliefs, Psychological Functioning, and Covid-19 Experiences. Psychol Rep 2024; 127:1941-1968. [PMID: 36471643 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221144606] [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] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The global pandemic has disrupted virtually all countries on health, psychological functioning, and economies, to name a few. Accurate information has also fallen victim to the pandemic, which has been rife with misinformation and conspiracy theories. The current study investigated Covid-19 deceptions related to employment. With complete anonymity via MTurk, 389 participants from the United States rated their likelihood of deception regarding hypothetical four workplace scenarios. The first set of analyses examined differences between high and low risk of deceptions for each scenario based on participants' self-appraisals. The largest differences were found for general conspiracy beliefs and affective disorders, specifically major depression and generalized anxiety. The second set of analyses focused across the workplace scenarios on two operationalized groups with Likely-Deceptive (n = 189) vastly outnumbering Likely-Genuine (n = 55). Personal experiences with Covid-19 dramatically increased deceptions. Testing positive for Covid-19 increased the odds of being in the Likely-Deceptive by twelve-fold. Two discriminant models examined cognitive misbeliefs and psychological functioning. When both were combined, depression and Covid-19 misinformation produced the strongest structure coefficients followed closely by general conspiracy beliefs and generalized anxiety. The far-ranging implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Rogers
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Minqi Pan
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, USA
| | | | - Yi-Ting Chang
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Jordan E Donson
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, USA
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Skafida V, Heins E. Trust in COVID-19 information sources and vaccination status: Exploring social inequalities and differences within the four United Kingdom nations using a representative survey. J Health Serv Res Policy 2024; 29:153-162. [PMID: 38314687 PMCID: PMC11196867 DOI: 10.1177/13558196241227749] [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: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore how the use of, and trust in, different sources of advice and information on COVID-19 differed across the four UK nations and between different sociodemographic groups and their associations with COVID-19 vaccination status. METHODS We used a UK-wide representative survey conducted in July 2021, which included data on uptake of COVID-19 vaccination, trust in information sources, use of sources and geographical and sociodemographic variables. We used multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with completed or planned COVID-19 vaccination. RESULTS Trust in the NHS, followed by trust in scientists, were the strongest predictors of vaccination intention. NHS websites were the most used (56% across the UK); only the Scottish government website had a higher level of reported use (58%). Using either source was associated with a positive vaccination status as were use of the GP and television as sources of advice. Use of social media, family and friends, and 'none' of the sources enquired about, were all linked to a lower likelihood of being or intending to get vaccinated. Compared to those in England, respondents in other UK nations were less likely to trust the central UK government for advice on COVID-19. There was considerable variation by age in trust and use of some, but not all, sources of advice, with predicted probabilities ranging from 35% among the youngest age group to 62% among those aged 65 years or older. There were also significant differences by annual household income and by occupational class for trust in government, with higher incomes correlating with greater likelihood of trust. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates high levels of trust in the key sources of public health advice and there was a positive association between using official sources of advice and vaccination intentions, even in the context of overall high vaccination rates. Our findings highlight the need for the UK and devolved governments to value the importance of public trust in the health system and take appropriate measures to avoid undermining such trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Skafida
- Social Policy, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elke Heins
- Social Policy, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Purvis RS, Moore R, Willis DE, Li J, Selig JP, Kraleti S, Imran T, McElfish PA. Exploring Hesitancy, Motivations, and Practical Issues for COVID-19 Vaccination Among Vaccine-Hesitant Adopter Parents Using the Increasing Vaccination Model. J Pediatr Health Care 2024; 38:456-467. [PMID: 38430095 PMCID: PMC11222047 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 vaccination coverage among children remains low, and many parents report being hesitant to get their children vaccinated. This study explores factors influencing hesitancy and the facilitators that helped hesitant adopter parents choose to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 despite their hesitancy. METHOD We use a qualitative descriptive design with individual interviews (n = 20) to explore COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and facilitators of vaccination among hesitant adopter parents. The Increasing Vaccination Model domains (thoughts and feelings, social processes, and practical issues) provided the framework for initial coding, and the research team identified nine emergent themes. RESULTS Findings document the factors influencing hesitancy and the facilitators motivating COVID-19 vaccination among hesitant adopter parents. DISCUSSION Findings fill the gap in the literature by providing hesitant adopters' lived experience, perspectives on vaccine hesitancy, and the influential factors that helped participants overcome their hesitancy and choose to vaccinate their children against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Purvis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, USA
| | - Ramey Moore
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, USA
| | - Don E. Willis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, USA
| | - Ji Li
- Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of
Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, USA
| | - James P. Selig
- Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of
Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, USA
| | - Shashank Kraleti
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Tabasum Imran
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences West, Fort Smith, AR, USA
| | - Pearl A. McElfish
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, USA
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Adamus M, Ballová Mikušková E, Kohut M. Conspire to one's own detriment: Strengthening HPV Program Support Through Debunking Epistemically Suspect Beliefs. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2024. [PMID: 38923394 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12570] [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: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The study experimentally tested an intervention that debunks epistemically suspect beliefs about vaccines. After answering questions about pre-existing epistemically suspect beliefs (irrational health beliefs and conspiracy mentality), 565 participants were randomly assigned into one of three conditions and exposed either to neutral information about domestic animals, salient epistemically suspect content about vaccination or an intervention that debunks epistemically suspect beliefs about vaccination. Afterwards, the participants answered questions about vaccination-related conspiracy narratives (manipulation check), vaccination attitudes, intentions to vaccinate against HPV, support for an HPV vaccination programme and intentions to seek health guidance. Although the intervention demonstrated the potential to inhibit the endorsement of conspiracy narratives, we found no differences in the other outcome variables. Nevertheless, across the conditions, pre-existing epistemically suspect beliefs were associated with less favourable attitudes towards vaccination, lower intentions to vaccinate against HPV, less support for the vaccination programme and lower intentions to seek health guidance. The results indicate that debunking may be futile in curbing long-term negative impacts associated with epistemically suspect beliefs, and they contribute to the debate about assessing the effectiveness of interventions related to highly controversial topics such as vaccination. The study enhances understanding of persistent adverse impacts that epistemically suspect beliefs may have on public health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Adamus
- Faculty of Economics and Administration, Masaryk University in Brno, Czechia
- Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Slovakia
| | | | - Michal Kohut
- Faculty of Philosophy and Arts, University of Trnava, Trnava, Slovakia
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Baumer-Mouradian SH, Hofstetter AM, O'Leary ST, Opel DJ. Vaccine Confidence as Critical to Pandemic Preparedness and Response. Pediatr Clin North Am 2024; 71:499-513. [PMID: 38754938 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2024.01.017] [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] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Vaccine confidence is a belief that vaccines work, are safe, and are part of a trustworthy medical system. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of the public's confidence in vaccines and the vaccine enterprise, limiting the public health impact of vaccination. In this review, we examine the critical nature of vaccine confidence to pandemic preparedness and response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon H Baumer-Mouradian
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 9000 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Annika M Hofstetter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine and Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, M/S CURE-4, PO Box 5371, Seattle, WA 98145, USA
| | - Sean T O'Leary
- Department of Pediatrics and Adult and Child Center for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 1890 North Revere Court, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Douglas J Opel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine and Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics and Palliative Care, Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, M/S: JMB-6; 1900 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101, USA.
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Kobashi Y, Yoshida M, Saito H, Yoshimura H, Nonaka S, Yamamoto C, Zhao T, Tsubokura M. Understanding Reasons for Vaccination Hesitancy and Implementing Effective Countermeasures: An Online Survey of Individuals Unvaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:499. [PMID: 38793750 PMCID: PMC11125705 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12050499] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This online survey of unvaccinated people living in Japan aimed to identify the reasons for declining vaccination and to develop effective countermeasures. We conducted a hierarchical class analysis to classify participants, examine factors influencing their classification, and provide the information they needed about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and trusted sources of COVID-19 information for each group. A total of 262 participants were classified into three groups: Group 1 with no specific reason (28 participants, 10.69%); Group 2 with clear concerns about trust in the vaccine (85 participants, 32.44%), and Group 3 with attitudinal barriers, such as distrust of the vaccine and complacency towards COVID-19, and structural barriers, such as vaccination appointments (149 participants, 56.87%). For each group, females tended to be classified in Group 2 more than Group 1 (Odds ratio (OR) [95% confidential intervals (95%CI)] = 1.64 (0.63 to 2.66), p = 0.001) and in Group 3 more than Group 1 (OR [95%CI] = 1.16 (0.19 to 2.12), p = 0.019). The information that the participants wanted to know about COVID-19 was different among each group (Safety: p < 0.001, Efficacy: p < 0.001, Genetic effects: p < 0.001). Those who did not receive the COVID-19 vaccine also had lower influenza vaccination coverage (8.02%). Additionally, 38 participants (14.50%) were subject to social disadvantages because they had not received the COVID-19 vaccine. Countermeasures should be carefully tailored according to the target population, reasons for hesitancy, and specific context. The findings of this study may help develop individualized countermeasures to address vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurie Kobashi
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Serireikai Group Hirata Central Hospital, Ishikawa Country, Fukushima 963-8202, Japan
| | - Makoto Yoshida
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8605, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Saito
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Soma Central Hospital, Soma, Fukushima 976-0016, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yoshimura
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
- School of Medicine, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8511, Japan
| | - Saori Nonaka
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
| | - Chika Yamamoto
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
| | - Tianchen Zhao
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
| | - Masaharu Tsubokura
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (Y.K.); (M.Y.); (H.S.); (H.Y.); (C.Y.); (T.Z.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Serireikai Group Hirata Central Hospital, Ishikawa Country, Fukushima 963-8202, Japan
- Research Center for Community Health, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan
- General Incorporated Association for Comprehensive Disaster Health Management Research Institute, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0074, Japan
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Gonzalez-Jaramillo N, Abbühl D, Roa-Díaz ZM, Kobler-Betancourt C, Frahsa A. COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in the general population and under-resourced communities from high-income countries: realist review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e084560. [PMID: 38631831 PMCID: PMC11029206 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-084560] [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: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare vaccination willingness before rollout and 1 year post-rollout uptake among the general population and under-resourced communities in high-income countries. DESIGN A realist review. DATA SOURCES Embase, PubMed, Dimensions ai and Google Scholar. SETTING High-income countries. DEFINITIONS We defined vaccination willingness as the proportion of participants willing or intending to receive vaccines prior to availability. We defined vaccine uptake as the real proportion of the population with complete vaccination as reported by each country until November 2021. RESULTS We included data from 62 studies and 18 high-income countries. For studies conducted among general populations, the proportion of vaccination willingness was 67% (95% CI 62% to 72%). In real-world settings, the overall proportion of vaccine uptake among those countries was 73% (95% CI 69% to 76%). 17 studies reported pre-rollout willingness for under-resourced communities. The summary proportion of vaccination willingness from studies reporting results among people from under-resourced communities was 52% (95% CI 0.46% to 0.57%). Real-world evidence about vaccine uptake after rollout among under-resourced communities was limited. CONCLUSION Our review emphasises the importance of realist reviews for assessing vaccine acceptance. Limited real-world evidence about vaccine uptake among under-resourced communities in high-income countries is a call to context-specific actions and reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dominik Abbühl
- ISPM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Zayne Milena Roa-Díaz
- ISPM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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10
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Sanvee-Blebo LM, Adewuyi PA, Whesseh FK, Babalola OJ, Wilson-Sesay HW, Akpan GE, Umeokonkwo CD, Clement P, Amo-Addae M. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults in Liberia, April-May 2021. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297089. [PMID: 38630778 PMCID: PMC11023583 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccination is one of the most cost-effective public health interventions used to prevent diseases in susceptible populations. Despite the established efficacy of vaccines, there are many reasons people are hesitant about vaccination, and these reasons could be complex. This rapid survey estimated the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and potentially contributing factors in Montserrado and Nimba counties in Liberia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults living in Liberia. The relationship between vaccine non-acceptance and sociodemographic characteristics was examined using chi-square statistics. The variables with a p-value less than 0.2 at the bivariate analysis were modelled in a binary logistic regression at a 5% level of significance. The adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval are reported. RESULTS There were 877 participants in the study. Majority were 25-34 years of age (30.4%, 272/877), females (54.05%, 474/877), and Christians (85.2%, 747/877). Most of the participants were aware of the COVID-19 vaccine (75%, 656/877), single (41.4%, 363/877), self-employed (37.51%, 329/877), and live-in rural communities (56.1%, 492/877). Vaccine hesitancy was (29.1%, 255/877; 95% CI:26.2-32.2). Vaccine hesitancy was greater among adults living in urban areas (41%) compared to persons living in rural communities (59%) (aOR; 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1-2.1) and respondents aged 45-54 years (aOR:0.5; 95% CI: 0.2-0.9; p = 0.043) were 50% less likely to be hesitant to COVID-19 vaccination compared to those more than 55 years. The most common source of information was the media (53%, 492/877) and the main reason for being hesitant was a need for more information about the vaccine and its safety (84%, 215/255). CONCLUSIONS The majority of study participants were aware of the COVID-19 vaccines and their most common source of information was the media (television, radio). Vaccine hesitancy was moderate. This could pose a challenge to efforts to control the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the health authorities should provide more health education on the importance of vaccines and their safety to the populace.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Godwin E. Akpan
- Liberia Field Epidemiology Training Program, Monrovia, Liberia
| | | | | | - Maame Amo-Addae
- Liberia Field Epidemiology Training Program, Monrovia, Liberia
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11
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Clark D, Kikut-Stein A, Jesch E, Hornik R. Should Communication Campaigns Promoting Vaccination Address Misinformation Beliefs? Implications from a Nationally Representative Longitudinal Survey Study among U.S. Adults. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 29:265-273. [PMID: 38651616 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2024.2331488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Public health communication campaign planners must carefully consider whether misinformation beliefs are important to target and, ideally, correct. Guided by the reasoned action approach, we hypothesized that behavior-specific beliefs regarding COVID-19 vaccination would account for any observed relationship between general coronavirus misinformation beliefs (misinformation beliefs that are not specific to the anticipated consequences of COVID-19 vaccination) and subsequent vaccine uptake. To test our hypothesis, we used panel data from a two-wave nationally representative sample of U.S. adults pre- and post-vaccine availability (T1: July 2020, T2: April/June 2021, analytic sample: n = 665). Contrary to our hypothesis, we find a residual observed relationship between general coronavirus misinformation beliefs and subsequent vaccine uptake (AOR = 0.40, SE = 0.10). Intriguingly, our post-hoc analyses do show that after also adjusting for T2 behavioral beliefs, this association was no longer significant. With this and other justifications, we recommend that messages promoting vaccination prioritize targeting relevant behavioral beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Clark
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ava Kikut-Stein
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emma Jesch
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert Hornik
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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12
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Wang H, van Prooijen JW, van Lange PA. How perceived coercion polarizes unvaccinated people: The mediating role of conspiracy beliefs. J Health Psychol 2024:13591053241238126. [PMID: 38494647 DOI: 10.1177/13591053241238126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, different policies were implemented to increase vaccination uptake. Meanwhile, conspiracy theories spread widely, and vaccinated versus unvaccinated people increasingly polarized against each other. This study examined the associations between perceived vaccination coercion, conspiracy beliefs and polarization. We tested the relationship of vaccination status with perceived vaccination coercion, conspiracy beliefs, and polarization, with a total sample size of N = 1202 (n = 400 in China, n = 401 in the US, and n = 401 in the UK), among them n = 603 were vaccinated and n = 599 were unvaccinated. As pre-registered, unvaccinated people perceived more vaccination coercion and endorsed more conspiracy theories. Conspiracy mentality was positively related to perceived coercion. Contrary to our hypotheses, vaccinated people were more polarized toward unvaccinated people than vice versa. Finally, conspiracy beliefs mediated the link between perceived coercion and polarization among unvaccinated people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Wang
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- The Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR), The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Willem van Prooijen
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- The Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR), The Netherlands
- Maastricht University, The Netherlands
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13
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Wollast R, Schmitz M, Bigot A, Brisbois M, Luminet O. Predicting health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299868. [PMID: 38489308 PMCID: PMC10942062 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated the social, emotional, and cognitive predictors of adherence to four health behaviors (handwashing, mask wearing, social contact limitations, and physical distancing) during one critical phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. We collected data (N = 5803, mean age = 53; 57% women) in Belgium at five time points between April and July 2021, a time during which infections evolved from high (third wave of the pandemic) to low numbers of COVID-19 cases. The results show that the social, emotional, and cognitive predictors achieved high levels of explained variance (R2 > .60). In particular, the central components of behavioral change (attitudes, intentions, control, habits, norms, and risk) were the strongest and most consistent predictors of health behaviors over time. Likewise, autonomous motivation and empathetic emotions (e.g., attentive, compassionate) had a positive impact on health behavior adherence, whereas it was the opposite for lively emotions (e.g., active, enthusiastic). These results offer policymakers actionable insights into the most potent and stable factors associated with health behaviors, equipping them with effective strategies to curtail the spread of future infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Wollast
- Research Institute for Psychological Sciences, UCLouvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Mathias Schmitz
- Research Institute for Psychological Sciences, UCLouvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Alix Bigot
- Research Institute for Psychological Sciences, UCLouvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Marie Brisbois
- Faculty of Psychological Sciences and Education, Université libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Olivier Luminet
- Research Institute for Psychological Sciences, UCLouvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Fund for Scientific Research (FRS-FNRS), Brussels, Belgium
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14
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Jung M. Physical Distancing for Gay Men from People Living with HIV During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38319682 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2024.2314031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The fear of COVID-19 can exacerbate social stigma and prejudice against individuals living with HIV (PLWH). This research delved into the behaviors of MSM (men who have sex with men) who practice physical-distancing from PLWH. Data from 878 respondents were collected through a web survey conducted on Korea's largest LGBT portal site over one month in July 2022. The study examined various independent variables encompassing socioeconomic characteristics, health status, media consumption habits, and homosexual attributes of MSM. The dependent variable assessed was the extent of physical-distancing perceived by MSMs without HIV toward PLWH. The statistical analysis employed nested regression models. In Model I, it was observed that physical-distancing from PLWH decreased as the age and education level of the respondent increased. In Model II, a decrease in physical-distancing was noted among respondents with underlying health conditions. Model III indicated that increased use of traditional media corresponded to greater physical-distancing from PLWH. Lastly, Model IV revealed a reduction in physical-distancing when the respondent was themselves a person living with HIV. This study underscores the existence of physical-distancing toward PLWH within the gay community. Consequently, fostering solidarity and providing support becomes imperative to prevent the isolation of PLWH within this community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsoo Jung
- Department of Health Science, Dongduk Women's University, Seoul, South Korea
- Center for Community-Based Research, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Bennett BW, Phillips LS, Gazmararian JA. The Association of Vaccination for Common Adult Infectious Diseases and Uptake of COVID-19 Vaccines among 5,006,851 Veterans, 20 December 2020-31 October 2021. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:145. [PMID: 38400129 PMCID: PMC10893293 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12020145] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Disparities in vaccination coverage for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the United States (U.S.) are consistent barriers limiting our ability to control the spread of disease, particularly those by age and race/ethnicity. This study examines the association between previous vaccination for common adult infectious diseases and vaccination for SARS-CoV-2 among a cohort of veterans in the U.S. Sociodemographic and clinical data were utilized from three databases within the Veterans Health Administration included in the electronic health record. We examined the association of previous vaccination for common adult vaccinations through six separate multivariable logistic regression analyses, one for each previous vaccine exposure, adjusting for demographic and clinical variables. We also examined the association of receiving any one of the six common adult vaccinations and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. Adjusted models indicate higher odds of vaccination for SARS-CoV-2 among those who received each of the previous vaccinations. Significant differences were also noted by race/ethnicity and age. Veterans who recorded receiving any one of the previous vaccinations for common adult infections had significantly greater odds of receiving any vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. Understanding veterans' previous vaccination status can assist researchers and clinicians in impacting the uptake of novel vaccines, such as vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brady W. Bennett
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - Lawrence S. Phillips
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA 30033, USA;
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Julie A. Gazmararian
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
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16
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Zanon IP, Campos JVF, de Castro YG, de Souza TGV, do Amarante VS, de Oliveira CSF, Nicolino RR, Silva ROS. Non-vaccination of dogs is linked to uncompleted COVID-19 vaccination protocols of owners. Prev Vet Med 2024; 222:106093. [PMID: 38103432 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106093] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite the known importance of vaccines as one of the greatest achievements in medical science, vaccine hesitancy has been increasing in the last decade and has become a major threat to global health. The growth of vaccine hesitancy worldwide became more evident with the onset of COVID-19 and raised the fear that this hesitancy would also impact companion animal vaccination. This study aimed to characterize vaccine-hesitant groups regarding companion animals and human vaccinations, as well as to explore the possible association between vaccine hesitancy in pets and their owners. An anonymous online survey containing 27 closed questions was conducted, including questions about dog health, such as vaccination, neutering, and homeopathy use, as well as questions about the COVID-19 vaccination status of the owner and motivations for vaccinating or not vaccinating their pets. Most participants (81.5 %) reported receiving three or more doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Not vaccinating against COVID-19 or having an incomplete vaccination protocol was associated with an increase in the age range of participants (odds ratio [OR] = 1.43), not having higher education (OR = 7.70), and being in extreme income ranges (less than two minimum wages [OR = 7.57] and more than 10 [OR = 5.20]). The use of homeopathy in humans (OR = 3.24) and dogs (OR = 3.74) was associated with non-vaccination against COVID-19. Owners who were not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 were almost six times more likely to not vaccinate their dogs (OR = 5.94). Non-vaccination of dogs was also associated with non-neutering (OR = 3.56), keeping the dog in contact with other dogs (OR = 2.09), and an increase in the number of dogs in the house increased the chance of not vaccinating the animals (OR = 1.30). The present study revealed a strong association between non-vaccination against COVID-19 and non-vaccination in companion dogs, raising the hypothesis that vaccination hesitancy is a growing challenge in veterinary medicine. In addition, the characteristics of Brazilians who are reluctant to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or immunize their companion animals are described here for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela Pádua Zanon
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - João Victor Ferreira Campos
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Yasmin Gonçalves de Castro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thayanne Gabryelle Viana de Souza
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Victor Santos do Amarante
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Camila Stefanie Fonseca de Oliveira
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rafael Romero Nicolino
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Otávio Silveira Silva
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Antônio Carlos Avenue, 6627, Belo Horizonte, Zip-code: 31270-901 Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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17
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Feinberg I, Aycock DM, Tighe EL, Detamore D. Outreach for Young Adult African Americans with Risk Factors for Stroke. Health Lit Res Pract 2024; 8:e38-e46. [PMID: 38466224 PMCID: PMC10923612 DOI: 10.3928/24748307-20240220-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research suggests that younger adult African American people (age 18-35 years) have more than double the risk of having a stroke than White people. Stroke risk education is lacking for this cohort; there is a dearth of materials that are targeted and focused for young adult African Americans. There is also little research on developing and testing age and culturally appropriate health literate materials that may help this population better understand personal risk factors for stroke. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to understand factors to guide creating and disseminating plain language health messages about stroke risk awareness among young adult African Americans. METHODS African American participants age 18 years and older completed an online survey (N = 413). Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, and two-step cluster analyses were used to evaluate stroke risk awareness, perceived risk of stroke, message creation factors, and online health information seeking behavior. Open-ended survey items described modifiable and non-modifiable reasons for perceived risk of stroke. KEY RESULTS Participants reported differences on overall stroke risk factor awareness by perceived risk of stroke was significant (F[2, 409] = 4.91, p = .008) with the very low/low group (M = 1.66, p < .01), showing significantly lower overall stroke risk factor awareness compared to the moderate and high/very high groups. Both respondents who thought their stroke risk was very low/low and moderate/high/very high commented about family history (54.1% and 45.9%, respectively) as the reason and 88.2% of very low/low commented that they did not have risk factors for stroke because they were young. Cluster analysis indicated the Mostly Clear Preferences cluster was more likely to select mostly/very on positive, informational, and long-term messages and medical authority sources. The largest of three clusters reported medical sources as the highest rated source for both finding and trusting health information (47.2%, n = 195). CONCLUSION Young adult African Americans have a scarce understanding of modifiable stroke risk factors; health education materials should focus on positive information messaging that shows a long-term result and is presented by a medical authority. We did not observe any age or sex differences among the data, which suggests different message modalities may not be needed. [HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice. 2024;8(1):e38-e46.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Feinberg
- Address correspondence to Iris Feinberg, PhD, CHES, Adult Literacy Research Center – Department of Learning Sciences, Georgia State University, 20 Pryor Street, Atlanta, GA 30302;
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18
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Hennessy M, Bleakley A, Langbaum JB. Tracking COVID-19 vaccination expectancies and vaccination refusal in the United States. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:297-316. [PMID: 36809232 PMCID: PMC10440367 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2181977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
To identify factors that predict COVID-19 vaccination refusal and show how expectancies affect vaccination acceptance for non-vaccinated adults, we used a monthly repeated cross-sectional sample from June/2021 to October/2021 to collect data on vaccination behaviors and predictor variables for 2,116 US adults over 50 years of age. Selection bias modeling - which is required when data availability is a result of behavioral choice - predicts two outcomes: (1) no vaccination vs. vaccination for the entire sample and (2) the effects of expectancy indices predicting vaccination Refuser vs. vaccination Accepters for the unvaccinated group. Vaccine refusers were younger and less educated, endorsed common misconceptions about the COVID-19 epidemic, and were Black. Vaccination expectancies were related to vaccination refusal in the unvaccinated eligible group: negative expectancies increased vaccine refusal, while positive expectancies decreased it. We conclude that behavior-related expectancies (as opposed to more stable psychological traits) are important to identify because they are often modifiable and provide a point of intervention, not just for COVID-19 vaccination acceptance but also for other positive health behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hennessy
- Department of Communication, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Amy Bleakley
- Department of Communication, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
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19
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Alshehri S, Sallam M. Vaccine conspiracy association with higher COVID-19 vaccination side effects and negative attitude towards booster COVID-19, influenza and monkeypox vaccines: A pilot study in Saudi Universities. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2275962. [PMID: 37941437 PMCID: PMC10653693 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2275962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Conspiracies regarding vaccines are widely prevalent, with negative consequences on health-seeking behaviors. The current study aimed to investigate the possible association between the embrace of vaccine conspiracies and the attitude to booster COVID-19, seasonal influenza, and monkeypox (mpox) vaccinations as well as the perceived side effects following COVID-19 vaccination. The target population involved academic staff and university students in health colleges in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed in January 2023 to collect data on participants' demographics, self-reported side effects following each dose, willingness to get booster COVID-19, seasonal influenza, and mpox vaccinations, as well as an evaluation of vaccine conspiracies and attitude to mandatory vaccination. Among the 273 participants, the willingness to receive yearly booster COVID-19 vaccination was observed among 26.0% of the participants, while it was 46.9% and 34.1% for seasonal influenza and mpox vaccinations, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression analyses demonstrated a significant correlation between endorsing vaccine conspiracies and higher frequency of self-reported side effects following uptake of the second and third doses of COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccine conspiracies were also correlated with attitude toward booster COVID-19, influenza, mpox, and mandatory vaccination. The findings of this pilot study highlighted the potential adverse impact of the preexisting notions and negative attitudes toward vaccines, which could have contributed to heightened perceived side effects following COVID-19 vaccination. The study also highlighted the ongoing divisions concerning mandatory vaccination policies, emphasizing the need for cautious implementation of this strategy as a last resort for public health benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samiyah Alshehri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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20
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Perkins JR, Jaqua EE, Nguyen VT, Franz DA, Elkins J, Morton KR. Optimizing Education to Improve COVID-19 Vaccination Rates in a Federally Qualified Health Center. Perm J 2023; 27:143-150. [PMID: 37908131 PMCID: PMC10723104 DOI: 10.7812/tpp/23.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy is prevalent in underserved communities, and family medicine clinics can combat hesitancy with vaccine education. However, due to general misinformation, physicians hesitate to educate patients because doing so can create conflict. METHODS A series of resident-run, team-based quality improvement projects were conducted at a federally qualified health center every 4 months between June 2021 and May 2022. First, staff documentation of vaccine status was addressed. Second, physician and staff education about COVID-19 vaccines was completed along with motivational interview training to avoid conflict with patients. Third, patient COVID-19 vaccine education was addressed. RESULTS After Cycle 1, COVID-19 vaccine documentation status increased the number of patients who completed the vaccination series from 1% to 22%. Cycle 2 showed an increase in COVID-19 vaccination rate after health care team education. This reflected an increase from 35% to 76% of residents reporting that they discussed COVID-19 vaccines with unvaccinated patients after the intervention. Cycle 3 fought vaccine misinformation by educating patients. Most patients heard information about COVID-19 vaccines from friends and family (95%), social media (90%), and the news (80%). Physician confidence in providing COVID-19 vaccine education to patients increased from 2.8 (< somewhat confident) to 4.3 (moderately confident) out of 5 over 3 plan-do-study-act cycles. DISCUSSION Vaccination rates were tracked alongside physician surveys regarding the experience of offering the vaccine to patients. Vaccination rates steadily increased over time, and physicians became more confident in COVID-19 vaccine discussions with patients. CONCLUSION Primary care physicians are needed to approach public health concerns, such as vaccination completion, but ongoing education is also needed to promote confidence in health care pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua R Perkins
- Family Medicine Department, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Ecler E Jaqua
- Family Medicine Department, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Van T Nguyen
- Family Medicine Department, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Daniel A Franz
- Psychology Department, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Joseph Elkins
- School of Medicine, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Kelly R Morton
- Family Medicine Department, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
- Psychology Department, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
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21
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Gully BJ, Padovano HT, Clark SE, Muro GJ, Monnig MA. Exposure to the Death of Others during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Growing Mistrust in Medical Institutions as a Result of Personal Loss. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:999. [PMID: 38131855 PMCID: PMC10741189 DOI: 10.3390/bs13120999] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The prominence of death during the COVID-19 pandemic was heightened by the potential of personally knowing someone who lost their life to the virus. The terror management theory (TMT) suggests that the salient presence of death has a pronounced effect on behavior and may result in the ossification of beliefs and actions aligned with one's worldview (i.e., the mortality salience hypothesis). In this study, we evaluated how death exposure early in the COVID-19 pandemic could enact the process of firming up held beliefs and attitudes related to health and safety. Specifically, we tested the hypothesis that exposure to a personal loss during the pandemic would strengthen participants' baseline attitudes and behaviors regarding COVID-19 safety guidelines. METHOD Data were analyzed from a prospective, regional survey administered at two time points during the pandemic, June-July 2020 and May 2021, in five United States northeastern states. Baseline and follow-up surveys were administered approximately 12 months apart, with adherence to public guidance and death exposure measured at both timepoints and other safety measures at follow-up only. FINDINGS Our results indicated that there were significant main effects of death exposure on guideline adherence and support for COVID-related public policy. Contrary to the mortality salience hypothesis, death exposures after baseline were related to higher medical mistrust at follow-up for those high in adherence at baseline, rather than those with low adherence. CONCLUSION Our results offer some conflicting evidence to the mortality salience hypothesis. Rather than entrench people in their worldviews, death in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic appeared to sway people away from their initial stances. This finding has important implications for TMT literature and for the COVID-19 pandemic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J. Gully
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (H.T.P.); (S.E.C.); (G.J.M.); (M.A.M.)
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Hayley Treloar Padovano
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (H.T.P.); (S.E.C.); (G.J.M.); (M.A.M.)
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Samantha E. Clark
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (H.T.P.); (S.E.C.); (G.J.M.); (M.A.M.)
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Gabriel J. Muro
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (H.T.P.); (S.E.C.); (G.J.M.); (M.A.M.)
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Mollie A. Monnig
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (H.T.P.); (S.E.C.); (G.J.M.); (M.A.M.)
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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22
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Koban D, Abroms LC, Napolitano M, Simmens S, Broniatowski DA. Trust in public health institutions moderates the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccine discussion groups on Facebook. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 16:375-384. [PMID: 38095610 DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2023.2283308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Distrust and partisan identity are theorized to undermine health communications. We examined the role of these factors on the efficacy of discussion groups intended to promote vaccine uptake. METHOD We analyzed survey data from unvaccinated Facebook users (N = 371) living in the US between January and April 2022. Participants were randomly assigned to Facebook discussion groups (intervention) or referred to Facebook's COVID-19 Information Center (control). We used Analysis of Covariance to test if the intervention was more effective at changing vaccination intentions and beliefs compared to the control in subgroups based on participants' partisan identity, political views, and information trust views. RESULTS We found a significant interaction between the intervention and trust in public health institutions (PHIs) for improving intentions to vaccinate (P = .04), intentions to encourage others to vaccinate (P = .03), and vaccine confidence beliefs (P = .01). Among participants who trusted PHIs, those in the intervention had higher posttest intentions to vaccinate (P = .008) and intentions to encourage others to vaccinate (P = .002) compared to the control. Among non-conservatives, participants in the intervention had higher posttest intentions to vaccinate (P = .048). The intervention was more effective at improving intentions to encourage others to vaccinate within the subgroups of Republicans (P = .03), conservatives (P = .02), and participants who distrusted government (P = .02). CONCLUSIONS Facebook discussion groups were more effective for people who trusted PHIs and non-conservatives. Health communicators may need to segment health messaging and develop strategies around trust views.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Koban
- School of Engineering & Applied Science, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lorien C Abroms
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Institute for Data Democracy and Politics, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Melissa Napolitano
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Samuel Simmens
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David A Broniatowski
- School of Engineering & Applied Science, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Institute for Data Democracy and Politics, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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23
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Nowakowska I, Markiewicz M, Pankowski D, Wytrychiewicz-Pankowska K, Banasiak A, Pisula E. Sense of safety and opinions about COVID-19 vaccinations in Polish school teachers: the role of conspiracy theories belief and fear of COVID-19. THE JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 163:895-916. [PMID: 36476155 DOI: 10.1080/00224545.2022.2151404] [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: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The co-occurrence of COVID-19 conspiracy theories (CCT) and fear of the coronavirus (FCV) can be linked to how safe people feel and how much they endorse vaccinations. School teachers were one of the vaccination priority groups in Poland. We conducted three cross-sectional studies (N1 = 1006; N2 = 1689; N3 = 627) to find out the potential interaction effects of CCT belief and FCV in predicting sense of safety (SoS; Studies 1-3), opinions about vaccinations efficacy (Studies 2-3) and endorsement of vaccinations of children (Study 3) among school teachers. In all three studies, the belief in CCT was related to lower SoS only when FCV was low. For low CCT belief, although the belief in vaccination efficacy was higher than for CCT endorsers, it was unrelated to FCV. However, for high and average CCT belief, FCV was linked to belief in vaccination efficacy. FCV was positively related to acceptance of vaccinating children on all levels of CCT endorsement. The results are discussed in light of the available literature and their potential use in public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniel Pankowski
- University of Warsaw
- University of Economics and Human Sciences in Warsaw
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24
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Jabkowski P, Domaradzki J, Baranowski M. Exploring COVID-19 conspiracy theories: education, religiosity, trust in scientists, and political orientation in 26 European countries. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18116. [PMID: 37872233 PMCID: PMC10593806 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44752-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 virus disseminated globally at an accelerated pace, culminating in a worldwide pandemic; it engendered a proliferation of spurious information and a plethora of misinformation and conspiracy theories (CTs). While many factors contributing to the propensity for embracing conspiracy ideation have been delineated, the foremost determinant influencing individuals' proclivity towards CT endorsement appears to be their level of educational attainment. This research aimed to assess the moderating effect of religiosity, trust in scientists, and political orientation on the impact of education level on people's belief in COVID-19-related CTs in Europe by considering both individual-level and country-level contextual covariates of CT. We analysed data from the newest European Social Survey (ESS10) round conducted between September 2020 and September 2022 in 26 countries. We found religiosity weakens, and trust in scientists strengthens the effect of education, while the impact of political orientation is not straightforward. The result also demonstrates a significant negative correlation between the aggregate country-level data of the respondents supporting CTs and the level of vaccination and cumulative excess deaths in Europe. We concluded with a recommendation that planning effective public health strategies and campaigns are insufficient when based solely on people's education, as individuals' beliefs moderate the effect of education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Jabkowski
- Faculty of Sociology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Szamarzewkiego 89C, 60-568, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Jan Domaradzki
- Laboratory of Health Sociology and Social Pathology, Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Mariusz Baranowski
- Faculty of Sociology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Szamarzewkiego 89C, 60-568, Poznan, Poland
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Mevissen FEF, van Deursen B, Voeten HACM, Watzeels AJCM. 'We are not here to enforce; we are here for the people' Factors influencing performance of contact tracing during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study. J Public Health Res 2023; 12:22799036231208325. [PMID: 38020218 PMCID: PMC10676064 DOI: 10.1177/22799036231208325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Provider-initiated contact tracing (CT) is an important measure to slow down the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19. However, carrying out effective CT depends on the collaboration between the patient and the contact tracer. To improve CT, it is important to understand which factors influence contact tracers in being able to carry out CT during large pandemics. Methods We performed individual semi-structured interviews with nine contact tracers working for the COVID-19 unit of the Public Health Service (PHS) Rotterdam-Rijnmond, the Netherlands, to explore their experiences with carrying out CT. Data were collected between July 2020 and December 2020. The interview protocol was structured based on the CT tasks and guided by the literature and the framework explaining adherence to clinical practice guidelines. Results In general, CT seemed to be carried out satisfactorily. Individual factors (interviewing techniques and skills, attitude towards the patient and attitude towards CT), factors related to the patient (cooperativeness and engagement, emotions, language and culture and (mis)information), guideline-related factors (characteristics) and factors related to the organisation (interactions with colleagues, support from management, workload and training) were found to influence the carrying out of CT. Conclusion To be well prepared for future pandemics, it is important to explore strategies that can be effective to support the contact tracer in performing CT, support patients in feeling comfortable to be engaged and ways to reach more consistency in policies and protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fraukje EF Mevissen
- Public Health Service (GGD) Rotterdam-Rijnmond, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Helene ACM Voeten
- Public Health Service (GGD) Rotterdam-Rijnmond, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anita JCM Watzeels
- Public Health Service (GGD) Rotterdam-Rijnmond, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Castel AD, Barth S, Wilbourn BC, Horberg M, Monroe AK, Greenberg AE. Trends in COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Uptake Among Persons Living With HIV in Washington, DC. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:124-134. [PMID: 37368934 PMCID: PMC10529778 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected older people, people with underlying health conditions, racial and ethnic minorities, socioeconomically disadvantaged, and people living with HIV (PWH). We sought to describe vaccine hesitancy and associated factors, reasons for vaccine hesitancy, and vaccine uptake over time in PWH in Washington, DC. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey between October 2020 and December 2021 among PWH enrolled in a prospective longitudinal cohort in DC. Survey data were linked to electronic health record data and descriptively analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with vaccine hesitancy. The most common reasons for vaccine hesitancy and uptake were assessed. RESULTS Among 1029 participants (66% men, 74% Black, median age 54 years), 13% were vaccine hesitant and 9% refused. Women were 2.6-3.5 times, non-Hispanic Blacks were 2.2 times, Hispanics and those of other race/ethnicities were 3.5-8.8 times, and younger PWH were significantly more likely to express hesitancy or refusal than men, non-Hispanic Whites, and older PWH, respectively. The most reported reasons for vaccine hesitancy were side effect concerns (76%), plans to use other precautions/masks (73%), and speed of vaccine development (70%). Vaccine hesitancy and refusal declined over time (33% in October 2020 vs. 4% in December 2021, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS This study is one of the largest analyses of vaccine hesitancy among PWH in a US urban area highly affected by HIV and COVID-19. Multilevel culturally appropriate approaches are needed to effectively address COVID-19 vaccine concerns raised among PWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda D Castel
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University School of Public Health, Washington, DC; and
| | - Shannon Barth
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University School of Public Health, Washington, DC; and
| | - Brittany C Wilbourn
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University School of Public Health, Washington, DC; and
| | | | - Anne K Monroe
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University School of Public Health, Washington, DC; and
| | - Alan E Greenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University School of Public Health, Washington, DC; and
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Green AL, Stewart AL, Nápoles AM, Strassle PD. COVID-19 vaccination willingness and uptake among low-income Black/African American, Latino, and White adults living in the U.S. Prev Med Rep 2023; 35:102367. [PMID: 37638353 PMCID: PMC10458284 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102367] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess differences in COVID-19 vaccine willingness and uptake between low-income and non-low-income adults and across race-ethnicity. We utilized data from the COVID-19's Unequal Racial Burden online survey, which included baseline (12/17/2020-2/11/2021) and 6-month follow-up (8/13/2021-9/9/2021) surveys. The sample included 1,500 Black/African American, Latino, and White low-income adults living in the U.S. (N = 500 each). A non-low-income cohort was created for comparison (n = 1,188). Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess differences in vaccine willingness and uptake between low-income and non-low-income adults, as well as across race-ethnicity (low-income adults only). Only low-income White adults were less likely to be vaccinated compared to their non-low-income counterparts (extremely willing vs. not at all: OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.39-0.86); low-income Black/African American and Latino adults were just as willing or more willing to vaccinate. At follow-up, only 30.2% of low-income adults who reported being unwilling at baseline were vaccinated at follow-up. White low-income adults (63.6%) appeared less likely to be vaccinated, compared to non-low-income White adults (80.9%), low-income Black/African American (70.7%), and low-income Latino adults (72.4%). Distrust in the government (46.6), drug companies (44.5%), and vaccine contents (52.1%) were common among those unwilling to vaccinate. This prospective study among a diverse sample of low-income adults found that low-income White adults were less willing and less likely to vaccinate than their non-low-income counterparts, but this difference was not observed for Black/African American or Latino adults. Distrust and misinformation were prevalent among those who remained unvaccinated at follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis L. Green
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anita L. Stewart
- University of California San Francisco, Institute for Health & Aging, Center for Aging in Diverse Communities, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anna M. Nápoles
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paula D. Strassle
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Purvis RS, Moore R, Willis DE, Kraleti SS, Gurel-Headley MP, CarlLee S, McElfish PA. Key Conversations and Trusted Information Among Hesitant Adopters of the COVID-19 Vaccine. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:595-604. [PMID: 37599458 PMCID: PMC10528835 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2244458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines effectively protect against COVID-19-related hospitalization or death, and 67.1% of the US population is fully vaccinated. However, the disparity in COVID-19 vaccination persists among minority and rural populations who often report greater hesitancy about COVID-19 vaccines. This exploratory study aimed to understand and document trusted sources of information about the COVID-19 vaccine among a diverse sample of hesitant adopters with in-depth interviews. Participants (n = 21) described how information from trusted sources influenced their decision to get a COVID-19 vaccine despite being hesitant. Participants reported health care professionals, family members, friends, coworkers, community leaders, public health experts, government officials, and the mainstream media as trusted sources of information about the COVID-19 vaccines. Participants discussed obtaining trusted information from multiple modes, including direct conversations with trusted messengers and public health communications from public influencers who reinforced the information shared with trusted messengers. Notably, participants discussed having multiple conversations with trusted messengers during their decision-making process, and these trusted messengers often facilitated the participants' vaccination process. Study findings highlight the continued need for clear, understandable information about vaccine side effects, safety, and efficacy to address concerns that contribute to vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Purvis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
| | - Ramey Moore
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
| | - Don E. Willis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
| | - Shashank S. Kraleti
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Morgan P. Gurel-Headley
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
- Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Sheena CarlLee
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR
| | - Pearl A. McElfish
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
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Strassle PD, Green AL, Colbert CA, Stewart AL, Nápoles AM. COVID-19 vaccination willingness and uptake among rural Black/African American, Latino, and White adults. J Rural Health 2023; 39:756-764. [PMID: 36863851 PMCID: PMC10474244 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12751] [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: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to assess differences in COVID-19 vaccine willingness and uptake between rural and nonrural adults, and within rural racial-ethnic groups. METHODS We utilized data from the COVID-19's Unequal Racial Burden online survey, which included 1,500 Black/African American, Latino, and White rural adults (n = 500 each). Baseline (12/2020-2/2021) and 6-month follow-up (8/2021-9/2021) surveys were administered. A cohort of nonrural Black/African American, Latino, and White adults (n = 2,277) was created to compare differences between rural and nonrural communities. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess associations between rurality, race-ethnicity, and vaccine willingness and uptake. FINDINGS At baseline, only 24.9% of rural adults were extremely willing to be vaccinated and 28.4% were not at all willing. Rural White adults were least willing to be vaccinated, compared to nonrural White adults (extremely willing: aOR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.30-0.64). At follow-up, 69.3% of rural adults were vaccinated; however, only 25.3% of rural adults who reported being unwilling to vaccinate were vaccinated at follow-up, compared to 95.6% of adults who were extremely willing to be vaccinated and 76.3% who were unsure. Among those unwilling to vaccinate at follow-up, almost half reported distrust in the government (52.3%) and drug companies (46.2%); 80% reported that nothing would change their minds regarding vaccination. CONCLUSIONS By August 2021, almost 70% of rural adults were vaccinated. However, distrust and misinformation were prevalent among those unwilling to vaccinate at follow-up. To continue to effectively combat COVID-19 in rural communities, we need to address misinformation to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula D. Strassle
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Alexis L. Green
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Caleb A. Colbert
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Anita L. Stewart
- University of California San Francisco, Institute for Health & Aging, Center for Aging in Diverse Communities, San Francisco, CA
| | - Anna M. Nápoles
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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30
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Stojanov A, Hannawa A. Validating a German Version of the Conspiracy Mentality Scale (CMS). J Pers Assess 2023; 105:691-701. [PMID: 36507630 DOI: 10.1080/00223891.2022.2149408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Increased scientific interest in conspiracy beliefs raises the need for validated individual difference measures in the general tendency to believe in conspiracy theories, otherwise referred to as conspiracy mentality. In this article, we present a German language version of the Conspiracy Mentality Scale (CMS). A representative sample of German-speaking Swiss residents (N = 468) filled in the scale, along with measures of trust in several sources of information, need for social validation, compliance with Covid-19 preventive measures, perceived severity of the pandemic, loneliness, functional literacy and interpersonal conflict. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the two-dimensional structure of the original scale. Positive correlations between conspiracy theory ideation and trust in friends and the need for social validation on the one hand, and negative correlations with trust in scientific publications and scientific experts, perceived severity of the pandemic and functional literacy on the other hand supported construct validity. We conclude that our German language version of the scale is a valid measure of conspiracy theory ideation and skepticism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Stojanov
- Higher Education Development Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Annegret Hannawa
- Faculty of Communication, Culture & Society, Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), Lugano, Switzerland
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31
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Mishi S, Anakpo G, Matekenya W, Tshabalala N. COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Implications for Economic Recovery: Evidence from Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in South Africa. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1339. [PMID: 37631907 PMCID: PMC10458140 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081339] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The phenomenon of vaccine hesitancy is a growing threat to public health with far-reaching implications. The widening gap between the vaccinated and the proportion of vaccinated people needed for herd immunity raises two critical research questions that are of interest to practitioners, researchers, and policymakers: (1) What determines one's decision to be vaccinated? (2) What is the implication of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy for economic recovery? In this study, we use empirical data in the context of South Africa to investigate factors affecting COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and their implications for economic recovery. Findings reveal key socio-demographic and institutional drivers of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, which include age (the youth are more hesitant), inadequate information on the vaccine (those who perceive they have adequate information are vaccinated), trust issues in government institutions, conspiracy beliefs, vaccine-related factors, and perceived side effects associated with the vaccine. Additionally, an individual's decision to remain hesitant about COVID-19 vaccination has implications for businesses and the economy by limiting movement and trade, increasing unemployment, and causing a resurgence of new variants. Based on the findings, action plans such as information dissemination, convenience vaccination centers, consistent communications, and targeted campaign strategies are recommended for improving vaccine uptake and a positive economic recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Godfred Anakpo
- Department of Economics, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa; (S.M.); (W.M.); (N.T.)
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32
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Su Y, Zhang X, Zhang S. The impact of collective action dilemma on vaccine hesitancy: Evidence from China. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2256041. [PMID: 37747070 PMCID: PMC10521338 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2256041] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy has dramatically decreased the speed of vaccination and stalled global health development. While the factors influencing vaccine hesitancy and mitigation measures have been explored in depth by existing studies, research from the perspective of human interaction is lacking. Based on the theory of collective action, this paper analyzes how free riding behavior affects vaccine hesitancy and how the vaccine hesitancy caused by free riding behavior can be solved. Using 2,203 survey data sets from China, this paper examines the influence of the collective action dilemma - represented by free riding behavior - on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. The empirical results show that the existence of free riding behavior is an essential cause of vaccine hesitancy. Based on this conclusion, this paper discusses how to further alleviate the problem of vaccine hesitancy caused by collective action dilemmas by promoting cooperation. The findings of this paper may be helpful to promote various types of vaccines and further suggest that countries should assume the perspective of solving the collective action dilemma to achieve increased vaccination rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqing Su
- School of Public Policy and Management, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoting Zhang
- School of Public Policy and Management, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Shifei Zhang
- School of Public Policy and Management, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
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Qazi SH, Masoud S, Usmani MA. Vaccine hesitancy: acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine in Pakistan. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2023; 12:209-215. [PMID: 37599810 PMCID: PMC10435776 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2023.12.3.209] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The delay in acceptance or refusal to get vaccinated despite the availability of services is called vaccine hesitancy. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative in Pakistan faced consistent barriers preventing the eradication of the disease in the country. Similarly with the advent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic mass vaccination drives were initiated to a vaccine hesitant population. The aim of this study is to explore the prevalence and reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the Pakistani population. Materials and Methods Cross-sectional study conducted during July to September 2021 using a snowball sampling technique targeting the adult population of Pakistan. The modified version of the vaccine hesitancy questionnaire related to the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization Vaccine Hesitancy matrix was distributed online. Results Out of 973 participants, 52.4% were immediately willing to take the vaccine and constituted the acceptance group whereas the remaining 47.6% who were still not sure formed the hesitant group. Support from leaders was found to be statistically significant for the difference between the hesitant and acceptance groups (p-value=0.027). Hesitant people were concerned about the effectiveness of the vaccine (60.9%) and potential side effects (57.9%) as it was not sufficiently tested prior to launch (44.7%). Age and education were significant factors affecting the acceptance of vaccination. The most trusted source of information regarding vaccination was health care workers (43.8%). Conclusion A moderately high prevalence of vaccine hesitancy was reported in Pakistan. To overcome it, policymakers need to address the reasons for it. Leaders, celebrities, and healthcare workers can play an instrumental role in dispelling conspiracy theories regarding vaccines and making the vaccination drive a success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheze Haroon Qazi
- Community Dentistry Department, Islamabad Medical & Dental College, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Saba Masoud
- Community Dentistry Department, Islamabad Medical & Dental College, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Fiordelli M, Rubinelli S, Diviani N. Acceptance of Public Health Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Swiss Population's Beliefs, Attitudes, Trust, and Information-Seeking Behavior. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605982. [PMID: 37408794 PMCID: PMC10318558 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605982] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to advance the understanding of the factors associated with population acceptance of public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In January 2022, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of the Swiss population (N = 2,587). Questionnaires were administered through computer-assisted web interviewing. Measures covered included information-seeking behavior, attitudes towards and beliefs about public health measures enacted, and trust in institutions. Results: Television and newspapers were the most used information sources. Those with higher education levels were more likely to use channels from public institutions, newspapers, and television. The most important criterion for reliable information was scientific evidence. Trust was highest for doctors, healthcare workers, universities, research institutes, and public health institutions. Acceptance of public health measures was high overall, and attitudes, beliefs, information-seeking behavior, and trust were positively related to acceptance. Trust in science remained stable, while trust in public health institutions decreased slightly. Conclusion: While nurturing a two-way dialogue with the population, institutions should target communication considering age and culture, improve risk communication, ground messages in scientific evidence, and ensure mass media presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Fiordelli
- Institute of Public Health, Università della Svizzera italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Sara Rubinelli
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Diviani
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
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Youssef D, Bleibel L, Abboud E. Following the COVID-19 playbook and battling another infodemic: conspiracy beliefs around human monkeypox among the Lebanese population. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:72. [PMID: 37312223 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00580-x] [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: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The non-endemic multicountry outbreak of monkeypox (MPX) has emphasized the issue of conspiracy theories that go viral in times of societal crisis. Now, it is the turn of MPX to join COVID-19 in the conspiracy theory realm. Social media outlets were flooded by a scourge of misinformation as soon as MPX cases began to appear with an evident cross-pollination between diverse conspiracy theories. Given the adverse consequences of conspiracy beliefs, this study aimed to assess the extent of endorsement of MPX conspiracy beliefs among the Lebanese population and to identify its associated factors. METHODS Using a convenience sampling technique, a web-based cross section was conducted among Lebanese adults. Data were collected using an Arabic self-reported questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify the factors associated with the MPX conspiracy beliefs scale. RESULTS Conspiracy beliefs regarding emerging viruses including MPX were detected among 59.1% of Lebanese adults. Participants endorsed particularly the conspiracy theories linking the virus to a deliberate attempt to reduce the size of the global population (59.6%), gain political control (56.6%) or pharmaceutical companies' financial gain (39.3%), in addition to the manmade origin of MPX (47.5%). Remarkably, the majority of surveyed adults exhibited a negative attitude toward the government's preparedness for a potential MPX outbreak. However, a positive attitude was revealed toward the effectiveness of precautionary measures (69.6%). Female participants and those having a good health status were less likely to exhibit a higher level of conspiracy beliefs. On the contrary, divorced or widowed adults, those having a low economic situation, poor knowledge level, and negative attitude either toward the government or precautionary measures were more prone to disclose a higher level of conspiracy beliefs. Notably, participants relying on social media to get information about MPX were also more likely to have a higher level of conspiracy beliefs compared to their counterparts. CONCLUSIONS The widespread extent of conspiracy beliefs endorsement regarding MPX among the Lebanese population urged the policymakers to find ways to reduce people's reliance on these theories. Future studies exploring the harmful impacts of conspiracy beliefs on health behaviors are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalal Youssef
- Clinical Trials Program, Ministry of Public Health, Beirut, Lebanon.
- Institut de Santé Publique d'Épidémiologie et de Développement (ISPED), Bordeaux University, Bordeaux, France.
- Institut National de Santé Publique, Epidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon.
- Lebanese Higher Institute of Technical and Professional (IPNET), Beirut, Lebanon.
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Regazzi L, Lontano A, Cadeddu C, Di Padova P, Rosano A. Conspiracy beliefs, COVID-19 vaccine uptake and adherence to public health interventions during the pandemic in Europe. Eur J Public Health 2023:7192366. [PMID: 37290405 PMCID: PMC10393495 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conspiracy beliefs can be a major hindrance causing a lack of compliance with public health measures, including vaccination. We examined the relationship between individual attitudes, socio-demographic factors, conspiracy beliefs, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and preferences about pandemic policies in Europe. METHODS We used data from the 10th round of the European Social Survey, conducted in 2021-22 in 17 European countries. Both a conspiracy index and a personal attitude index for each participant were built by using a Latent Class Analysis model. Then, we used a multilevel regression model to investigate the relationship between a personal attitudes index, socio-demographic factors and country of residence, and a conspiracy index. We descriptively analyse the relationship between the conspiracy index and four main items related to COVID-19. RESULTS We found that a higher probability of believing in conspiracy theories was associated with male gender, middle age, lower levels of education, unemployment, lower levels of trust and satisfaction and right-wing political orientation. The country of residence was a contextual factor, with eastern European countries having higher levels of conspiracy beliefs. Individuals who expressed conspiracy beliefs had lower COVID-19 vaccine uptake, were less satisfied with the way health services coped with the pandemic and less supportive of governmental restrictions. CONCLUSIONS This study provides valuable insights into the factors associated with conspiracy beliefs and their potential impact on public health. The findings highlight the need for effective strategies to address the underlying factors driving conspiracy beliefs, reduce vaccine hesitancy and promote acceptance of public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Regazzi
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Alberto Lontano
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Chiara Cadeddu
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Pasquale Di Padova
- National Institute for the Analysis of Public Policies (INAPP), Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Rosano
- National Institute for the Analysis of Public Policies (INAPP), Rome, Italy
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37
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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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Asa GA, Fauk NK, Gesesew HA, Foley KM, Lunnay B, Ward PR. Understanding public perceptions in social media responses to posts about acute severe hepatitis of unknown etiology in Indonesia: a qualitative study. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:306. [PMID: 37158814 PMCID: PMC10165573 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08195-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute Severe Hepatitis of Unknown Etiology (ASHUE) emerged as a new global outbreak in Indonesia early May 2022, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to understand public reactions and responses to the emergence of ASHUE Indonesia and to Government-led disease prevention responses. Understanding how the public perceived government-led preventive messaging about the hepatitis outbreak is crucial to controlling viral spread - particularly given the rapid and unforeseen emergence of ASHUE coincided with COVID-19 and public trust in the Indonesian Government to manage health outbreaks was already tenuous. METHODS Social media users' responses to information disseminated via Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter were analyzed to understand public perceptions about ASHUE outbreak and their attitudes toward Government-led prevention measures. Data were extracted on a daily basis from 1st May 2022 to 30th May 2022 and analyzed manually. We inductively generated the codes, from which we formed a construct and then grouped to identify themes. RESULTS A total of 137 response comments collected from 3 social medial platforms were analyzed. Of these, 64 were from Facebook, 57 were from YouTube, and 16 were from Twitter. We identified 5 main themes, including (1) disbelief in the existence of the infection; (2) suspicion about a potential new business after COVID-19; (3) suspicion that COVID-19 vaccine(s) are the cause; (4) religion-related fatalism and (5) trust in government measures. CONCLUSIONS The findings advance knowledge about public perceptions, reactions and attitudes towards the emergence of ASHUE and the efficacy of disease countermeasures. The knowledge from this study will provide an understanding of why disease prevention measures might not be followed. It can be used to develop public awareness programs in Indonesia about both the ASHUE and its possible consequences and the available healthcare support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorius Abanit Asa
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Sanggar Belajar Alternatif (SALT), Atambua, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia
| | - Nelsensius Klau Fauk
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute of Resource Governance and Social Change, Kupang, Indonesia
| | - Hailay Abrha Gesesew
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
- College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia.
| | - Kristen Marie Foley
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Belinda Lunnay
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Paul Russell Ward
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Pierz AJ, Rauh L, Masoud D, Cruz AK, Palmedo PC, Ratzan SC, Parker R. Supporting US healthcare providers for successful vaccine communication. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:423. [PMID: 37131261 PMCID: PMC10152412 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09348-0] [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: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While many healthcare providers (HCPs) have navigated patients' vaccine concerns and questions prior to the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines, sentiments surrounding the COVID-19 vaccines have presented new and distinct challenges. OBJECTIVE To understand the provider experience of counseling patients about COVID-19 vaccinations, aspects of the pandemic environment that impacted vaccine trust, and communication strategies providers found supportive of patient vaccine education. METHODS 7 focus groups of healthcare providers were conducted and recorded during December 2021 and January 2022, at the height of the Omicron wave in the United States. Recordings were transcribed, and iterative coding and analysis was applied. RESULTS 44 focus group participants representing 24 US states with the majority (80%) fully vaccinated at the time of data collection. Most participants were doctors (34%) or physician's assistants and nurse practitioners (34%). The negative impact of COVID-19 misinformation on patient-provider communication at both intrapersonal and interpersonal levels as well as barriers and facilitators to patient vaccine uptake are reported. People or sources that play a role in health communication ("messengers") and persuasive messages that impact behavior or attitudes towards vaccination ("messages") are described. Providers expressed frustration in the need to continuously address vaccine misinformation in clinical appointments among patients who remained unvaccinated. Many providers found value in resources that provided up-to-date and evidence-based information as COVID-19 guidelines continued to change. Additionally, providers indicated that patient-facing materials designed to support vaccination education were not frequently available, but they were the most valuable to providers in a changing information environment. CONCLUSIONS While vaccine decision-making is complex and hinges on diverse factors such as health care access (i.e., convenience, expense) and individual knowledge, providers can play a major role in navigating these factors with their patients. But to strengthen provider vaccine communication and promote vaccine uptake, a comprehensive communication infrastructure must be sustained to support the patient-provider dyad. The findings provide recommendations to maintain an environment that facilitates effective provider-patient communication at the community, organizational and policy levels. There is a need for a unified multisectoral response to reinforce the recommendations in patient settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Pierz
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
| | - Lauren Rauh
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Dima Masoud
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Alanna Kate Cruz
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - P Christopher Palmedo
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Scott C Ratzan
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Ruth Parker
- Division of General Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Krause KD, Pérez-Figueroa RE, Halkitis PN. Barriers and facilitators related to COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake among people living with HIV. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2023; 18:142-147. [PMID: 36943471 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review reports on the myriad barriers and facilitators related to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and factors contribution to uptake among people living with HIV (PLWH) globally published over the past year (2021-2022). RECENT FINDINGS Across the literature, participants indicated concerns about the safety, efficacy and overall rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine as a reason for delaying or not being vaccinated. Medical mistrust and perceptions about the risk of COVID-19 immune response and severity also played a role in COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among PLWH. Almost every study examined different sociodemographic characteristics associated with COVID-19 vaccination acceptance and uptake, and although strong themes emerged around race/ethnicity, sex and educational attainment, the results were mixed across other characteristics, including age. Some studies also examined medical factors specifically related to PLWH including CD4 + cell count and adherence to antiretroviral therapy. SUMMARY The findings highlight individual, structural and social differences in COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake among PLWH, which are varied throughout the world. We call on researchers and interventionists to not just consider the role of medical mistrust and disinformation, but also how emotional, financial and political vulnerability plays into making decisions around COVID-19 vaccine uptake and overall healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen D Krause
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior, and Prevention Studies (CHIBPS)
- Department of Urban-Global Health
| | - Rafael E Pérez-Figueroa
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior, and Prevention Studies (CHIBPS)
- Department of Urban-Global Health
| | - Perry N Halkitis
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior, and Prevention Studies (CHIBPS)
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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41
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Zidkova R, Malinakova K, van Dijk JP, Tavel P. COVID-19 Vaccination Refusal—Which Factors are Related in the Czech Republic, One of the Most Affected Countries in the World? Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605375. [PMID: 36999093 PMCID: PMC10043179 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study examined the willingness to get vaccinated and the factors influencing this attitude in extreme settings—in the Czech Republic (at the time of the survey, the third-worst affected country in the world).Methods: We used national data from the general adult Czech population (N = 1,401) and measured attitudes towards vaccination, sociodemographic characteristics, government trust, knowledge about COVID-19 vaccines, personal characteristics, depression and anxiety.Results: Respondents who were more likely to refuse the vaccine were: female, younger, living without a partner, self-employed or unemployed, living in a town, believers outside the church, and did not trust the government, obtained information about the vaccine from social media, were extroverts and depressed. Conversely, respondents who were less likely to refuse the vaccine were: pensioners, people with higher education, respondents with better real knowledge about the COVID-19 vaccines, those who obtained information about the vaccine from an expert and those who had higher scores in neuroticism.Conclusion: This study thus offers a deeper understanding of the factors that might influence vaccine intention and subsequently the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radka Zidkova
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
- Department of Community and Occupational Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Radka Zidkova,
| | - Klara Malinakova
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Jitse P. van Dijk
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
- Department of Community and Occupational Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Graduate School Kosice Institute for Society and Health, P.J. Safarik University in Kosice, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Peter Tavel
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
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Zwar L, König HH, Hajek A. Are informal caregivers more likely to believe in conspiracy theories during the COVID-19 pandemic?: Findings of a representative study from Germany. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:588-594. [PMID: 35862616 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2102141] [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: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study analyzed the conspiracy mentality of informal caregivers for older persons compared to non-caregivers and whether this association was dependent on age. METHODS The sample was collected randomly from a population-based online panel (forsa.omninet) and represents individuals aged ≥40 years from Germany. In total, 3022 participants were questioned about conspiracy mentality (Conspiracy Mentality Questionnaire), informal care provision (N = 489 informal caregivers of older adults), and sociodemographic background. Data assessment took place between 4th and 19th March 2021 and the questions referred to the time between December 2020 and March 2021. RESULTS No significant differences were found between informal caregivers and non-caregivers. A significant interaction effect was found, indicating a decrease of conspiracy mentality among non-caregivers and an increase among informal caregivers with higher age. After stratifying by gender, this effect was found only among female informal caregivers. CONCLUSION Middle-aged informal caregivers had a lower, and older-aged a higher, susceptibility to conspiracy theories during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to non-caregivers. The results indicate that providing care could be protective among middle-aged individuals, whereas older informal caregivers may benefit from interventions to reduce susceptibility to conspiracy theories and the associated risks for health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Zwar
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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43
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Adu P, Popoola T, Medvedev ON, Collings S, Mbinta J, Aspin C, Simpson CR. Implications for COVID-19 vaccine uptake: A systematic review. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:441-466. [PMID: 36738689 PMCID: PMC9884645 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, increasing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination coverage remains a major public health concern in the face of high rates of COVID-19 hesitancy among the general population. We must understand the impact of the determinants of COVID-19 vaccine uptake when designing national vaccination programmes. We aimed to synthesise nationwide evidence regarding COVID-19 infodemics and the demographic, psychological, and social predictors of COVID-19 vaccination uptake. METHODS We systematically searched seven databases between July 2021 and March 2022 to retrieve relevant articles published since COVID-19 was first reported on 31 December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Of the 12,502 peer-reviewed articles retrieved from the databases, 57 met the selection criteria and were included in this systematic review. We explored COVID-19 vaccine uptake determinants before and after the first COVID-19 vaccine roll-out by the Food and Drug Authority (FDA). RESULTS Increased COVID-19 vaccine uptake rates were associated with decreased hesitancy. Concerns about COVID-19 vaccine safety, negative side effects, rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine, and uncertainty about vaccine effectiveness were associated with reluctance to be vaccinated. After the US FDA approval of COVID-19 vaccines, phobia of medical procedures such as vaccine injection and inadequate information about vaccines were the main determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. CONCLUSION Addressing effectiveness and safety concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccines, as well as providing adequate information about vaccines and the impacts of pandemics, should be considered before implementation of any vaccination programme. Reassuring people about the safety of medical vaccination and using alternative procedures such as needle-free vaccination may help further increase vaccination uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Adu
- School of Health, Wellington Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - Tosin Popoola
- School of Health, Wellington Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Sunny Collings
- School of Health, Wellington Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - James Mbinta
- School of Health, Wellington Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - Clive Aspin
- School of Health, Wellington Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - Colin R. Simpson
- School of Health, Wellington Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
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44
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Argyropoulos CD, Leckler J, Salmanton-García J, Constantinou M, Alexandrou A, Themistocleous S, Noula E, Shiamakkides G, Nearchou A, Stewart FA, Albus K, Koniordou M, Kopsidas I, Spivak O, Hellemans M, Hendrickx G, Davis RJ, Azzini AM, Simon PV, Carcas AJ, Askling HH, Vene S, Prellezo JB, Álvarez-Barco E, Macken AJ, Di Marzo R, Luís C, Olesen OF, Frias Iniesta JA, Barta I, Tóth K, Akova M, Bonten MMJ, Cohen-Kandli M, Cox RJ, Součková L, Husa P, Jancoriene L, Launay O, Lundgren J, Mallon P, Mendonça MA, Marques L, Naucler P, Ochando J, Tacconelli E, van Damme P, Zaoutis T, Hofstraat S, Bruijning-Verhagen P, Zeitlinger M, Cornely OA, Pana ZD. Enhancing public health communication of vaccine trials: The pan-European VACCELERATE Toolkit. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e44491. [PMID: 36878478 PMCID: PMC10131613 DOI: 10.2196/44491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pan-European VACCELERATE network aims to implement the first transnational harmonised and sustainable vaccine trial Volunteer Registry, serving as single entry-point for volunteers willing to participate in large scale vaccine clinical studies across the European region. The present work exhibits a set of harmonised vaccine trial educational and promotional tools for the general public, designed and disseminated by the pan-European VACCELERATE network. OBJECTIVE The main objectives of the present study are the design and creation of a standard toolkit to increase positive attitudes, and access to trustful information for better access and increased recruitment to vaccine trials for the public community. More specifically, the produced tools are focused on inclusiveness, equity, and they are targeting different population groups, including underserved ones, as potential volunteers for the VACCELERATE Volunteer Registry (elderly, migrants, children and adolescents). The promotion/education material is aligned with the main objectives of the Volunteer Registry, to increase public literacy and awareness regarding vaccine clinical research/trials and trial participation, such as informed consent and legal issues, side effects and frequently asked questions on vaccine trial design. METHODS The tools' development has followed the aims and principles of the VACCELERATE project, focusing on trial inclusiveness and equity and they are adjusted to the local country requirements to improve public health communication. The selection of the produced tools has been based on the cognitive theory, inclusiveness and equity of different aged and under-represented groups, and standardised material from several official trustful sources (e.g. COVAX, ECDC, EUPATI, GAVI and WHO). In addition, team of specialists from different fields (infectious diseases, vaccine research, medicine, education) edited and reviewed the subtitles and scripts for the educational videos, extended brochures, interactive cards and puzzles. Graph designers also selected the colour palette, audio settings and dubbing for the video story-tales and implementation of QR codes. RESULTS This study presents the first set of harmonised promotional and educational materials/tools (i.e. educational cards, educational and promotional videos, extended brochures, flyers, posters, and puzzles) for vaccine clinical research (e.g. COVID-19). The developed tools inform the public about possible benefits and disadvantages of trial participation, but also build the confidence of participants about the safety and efficacy for COVID-19 vaccines and healthcare system. The present material has been translated into several languages and meant to be freely and easily accessible to facilitate dissemination among the participating countries of the VACCELERATE network, as well as among the European and global scientific, industrial, and public community, in general. CONCLUSIONS The produced material could also be useful for filling knowledge gaps of healthcare personnel and providing the appropriate future patient education for vaccine trials, as well as to tackle vaccine hesitancy and parents' concerns for potential participation of children in vaccine trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janina Leckler
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, DE.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, DE
| | - Jon Salmanton-García
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, DE.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, DE
| | | | | | | | - Evgenia Noula
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenis Str., Nicosia, CY
| | - George Shiamakkides
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenis Str., Nicosia, CY
| | - Andria Nearchou
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenis Str., Nicosia, CY
| | - Fiona A Stewart
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, DE.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, DE
| | - Kerstin Albus
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, DE.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, DE
| | - Markela Koniordou
- Collaborative Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Outcomes Research (CLEO), Athens, GR
| | - Ioannis Kopsidas
- Collaborative Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Outcomes Research (CLEO), Athens, GR
| | | | - Margot Hellemans
- Universiteit Antwerpen, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, VAXINFECTIO, Centre of Evaluation of Vaccination, Antwerp, BE
| | - Greet Hendrickx
- Universiteit Antwerpen, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, VAXINFECTIO, Centre of Evaluation of Vaccination, Antwerp, BE
| | - Ruth Joanna Davis
- University of Verona, Infectious Diseases, Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Verona, IT
| | - Anna Maria Azzini
- University of Verona, Infectious Diseases, Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Verona, IT
| | - Paula Valle Simon
- Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, ES.,Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Madrid, ES
| | - Antonio Javier Carcas
- Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, ES.,Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Madrid, ES
| | - Helena Hervius Askling
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, SE.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, SE
| | - Sirkka Vene
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, SE.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, SE
| | | | - Elena Álvarez-Barco
- Centre for Experimental Pathogen Host Research, University College Dublin School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Dublin, IE
| | - Alan J Macken
- Centre for Experimental Pathogen Host Research, University College Dublin School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Dublin, IE
| | | | | | - Ole F Olesen
- European Vaccine Initiative (EVI), Heidelberg, DE
| | - Jesus A Frias Iniesta
- Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, ES.,Servicio Madrileño de Salud, Madrid, ES
| | - Imre Barta
- National Koranyi Institute for Pulmonology, Budapest, HU
| | - Krisztina Tóth
- National Koranyi Institute for Pulmonology, Budapest, HU
| | | | - Marc M J Bonten
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, NL.,Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, NL
| | | | | | - Lenka Součková
- Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic, University Hospital Brno, Brno, CZ.,University Hospital Brno, Brno, CZ.,CZECRIN, Brno, CZ
| | - Petr Husa
- Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic, University Hospital Brno, Brno, CZ.,University Hospital Brno, Brno, CZ.,CZECRIN, Brno, CZ
| | - Ligita Jancoriene
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty, Vilnius University, Vilnius, LT.,Vilnius University Hospital Santaros klinikos, Medical Faculty, Vilnius University, Vilnius, LT
| | - Odile Launay
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale-ANRS Maladies Infectieuses Émergentes, Paris, FR.,Université Paris Cité, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, FR
| | - Jens Lundgren
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK
| | - Patrick Mallon
- Centre for Experimental Pathogen Host Research, University College Dublin School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Dublin, IE
| | | | | | - Pontus Naucler
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, SE.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, SE
| | - Jordi Ochando
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, ES
| | - Evelina Tacconelli
- University of Verona, Infectious Diseases, Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Verona, IT
| | - Pierre van Damme
- Universiteit Antwerpen, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, VAXINFECTIO, Centre of Evaluation of Vaccination, Antwerp, BE
| | - Theoklis Zaoutis
- Collaborative Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Outcomes Research (CLEO), Athens, GR
| | - Sanne Hofstraat
- University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, NL
| | | | | | - Oliver A Cornely
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, DE.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, DE.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), Cologne, DE.,University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Cologne, DE.,German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, DE
| | - Zoi Dorothea Pana
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, 6 Diogenis Str., Nicosia, CY
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Olivera-Figueroa LA, Unger A, Papastamatelou J, Zimbardo PG. A Time to Get Vaccinated? The Role of Time Perspective, Consideration of Future Consequences, Conspiracy Beliefs, Religious Faith, Gender, and Race on Intention to Vaccinate for COVID-19 in the United States. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3625. [PMID: 36834320 PMCID: PMC9963941 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined the predictability of Time Perspective (TP) tendencies (i.e., Past Positive, Past Negative, Present Hedonistic, Present Fatalistic, and Future), the Balanced Time Perspective (BTP) profile, the Consideration of Future Consequences-Immediate (CFC-I) factor, the Consideration of Future Consequences-Future (CFC-F) factor, conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19 being a hoax, religious faith, gender, and race on COVID-19 vaccination intention as a dependent variable. Participants were recruited in the United States through the online platforms Prolific and Google Forms. The final sample was n = 232 (n = 99 male, n = 129 female, and n = 2 other, Mage = 31). Outcome measures included sociodemographic questions, the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory-short version, the Consideration of Future Consequences (CFC) ultra-short scale, the COVID-19 Conspiracy Beliefs questionnaire, and the Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire-brief version. Regression analyses revealed that vaccination intention was reduced by gender identification as woman, identification as multiracial or from mixed origin, Past Positive, Deviation from a BTP profile, belief in COVID-19 as hoax, and religious faith. Conversely, intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 was increased by Past Negative, CFC-I, and CFC-F. These findings could be beneficial for knowledge transfer to behavioral interventions aimed to promote vaccination against COVID-19, health promotion campaigns, and the public health field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lening A. Olivera-Figueroa
- Department of Psychology, Golden Gate University, 536 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
- Family Medicine Residency Program, AltaMed Institute for Health Equity, AltaMed Health Services Corporation, 2040 Camfield Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90040, USA
| | - Alexander Unger
- East-Asia Institute, Ludwigshafen University of Business and Society, Rheinpromenade 12, 67061 Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Julie Papastamatelou
- Study Program of Business Psychology, University of Applied Management Studies (HdWM), 68163 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Philip G. Zimbardo
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Jordan Hall 450 Jane Stanford Way, Building 420, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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George G, Nota PB, Strauss M, Lansdell E, Peters R, Brysiewicz P, Nadesan-Reddy N, Wassenaar D. Understanding COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Healthcare Workers in South Africa. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:414. [PMID: 36851290 PMCID: PMC9966714 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020414] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) were the first population group offered coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines in South Africa because they were considered to be at higher risk of infection and required protecting as they were a critical resource to the health system. In some contexts, vaccine uptake among HCWs has been slow, with several studies citing persistent concerns about vaccine safety and effectiveness. This study aimed to determine vaccine uptake among HCWs in South Africa whilst identifying what drives vaccine hesitancy among HCWs. We adopted a multimethod approach, utilising both a survey and in-depth interviews amongst a sample of HCWs in South Africa. In a sample of 7763 HCWS, 89% were vaccinated, with hesitancy highest among younger HCWs, males, and those working in the private sector. Among those who were hesitant, consistent with the literature, HCWs raised concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. Examining this further, our data revealed that safety and effectiveness concerns were formed due to first-hand witnessing of patients presenting with side-effects, concern over perceived lack of scientific rigor in developing the vaccine, confidence in the body's immune system to stave off serious illness, and both a general lack of information and distrust in the available sources of information. This study, through discursive narratives, provides evidence elucidating what drives safety and effectiveness concerns raised by HCWs. These concerns will need to be addressed if HCWs are to effectively communicate and influence public behaviour. HCWs are key role players in the national COVID-19 vaccination programme, making it critical for this workforce to be well trained, knowledgeable, and confident if they are going to improve the uptake of vaccines among the general population in South Africa, which currently remains suboptimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin George
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
- Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Lund University, 223 63 Lund, Sweden
| | - Phiwe Babalo Nota
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Michael Strauss
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Emma Lansdell
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Remco Peters
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, East London 5241, South Africa
| | - Petra Brysiewicz
- School of Nursing & Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Nisha Nadesan-Reddy
- School of Nursing & Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Douglas Wassenaar
- South African Research Ethics Training Initiative, School of Applied Human Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
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Pilch I, Turska-Kawa A, Wardawy P, Olszanecka-Marmola A, Smołkowska-Jędo W. Contemporary trends in psychological research on conspiracy beliefs. A systematic review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1075779. [PMID: 36844318 PMCID: PMC9945548 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1075779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The number of psychological studies on conspiracy beliefs has been systematically growing for about a dozen years, but in recent years, the trend has intensified. We provided a review covering the psychological literature on conspiracy beliefs from 2018 to 2021. Halfway through this period, the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, accompanied by an explosion of movements based on conspiracy theories, intensifying researchers' interest in this issue. Methods Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, the review systematically searched for relevant journal articles published between 2018 and 2021. A search was done on Scopus and Web of Science (only peer-reviewed journals). A study was included if it contained primary empirical data, if specific or general conspiracy belief(s) were measured and if its correlation with at least one other psychological variable was reported. All the studies were grouped for the descriptive analysis according to the methodology used, the participants' characteristics, the continent of origin, the sample size, and the conspiracy beliefs measurement tools. Due to substantial methodological heterogeneity of the studies, narrative synthesis was performed. The five researchers were assigned specific roles at each stage of the analysis to ensure the highest quality of the research. Results Following the proposed methodology, 308 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility and 274 articles (417 studies) meeting the inclusion criteria were identified and included in the review. Almost half of the studies (49.6%) were conducted in European countries. The vast majority of the studies (85.7%) were carried out on samples of adult respondents. The research presents antecedents as well as (potential) consequences of conspiracy beliefs. We grouped the antecedents of conspiracy beliefs into six categories: cognitive (e.g., thinking style) motivational (e.g., uncertainty avoidance), personality (e.g., collective narcissism), psychopathology (e.g., Dark Triad traits), political (e.g., ideological orientation), and sociocultural factors (e.g., collectivism). Conclusion and limitations The research presents evidence on the links between conspiracy beliefs and a range of attitudes and behaviors considered unfavorable from the point of view of individuals and of the society at large. It turned out that different constructs of conspiracy thinking interact with each other. The limitations of the study are discussed in the last part of the article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Pilch
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Turska-Kawa
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Political Science, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland,*Correspondence: Agnieszka Turska-Kawa,
| | - Paulina Wardawy
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Olszanecka-Marmola
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Political Science, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Wiktoria Smołkowska-Jędo
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Psychology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
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Fiadotava A, Astapova A, Hendershott R, McKinnon M, Jürgens AS. Injecting fun? Humour, conspiracy theory and (anti)vaccination discourse in popular media. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2023:9636625221147019. [PMID: 36715358 DOI: 10.1177/09636625221147019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Conspiracy theories have accompanied vaccination since its mass introduction, circulating, among other forms, in humour - such as cartoons, and now, memes. Importantly, humour has targeted both vaccination and anti-vaccination stances. In this study, we discuss the peculiarities of humorous content within the vaccination debate and uncover the most popular thematic categories, forms and logical mechanisms of humour. We show that humorous and serious discussions on vaccination go hand-in-hand, but playfulness and ambiguity of humour complicate public understanding of the vaccination debate. Our analysis shows that vaccination humour often simplifies the complex issue of vaccination and makes it more understandable and more tangible for a broad audience.
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Čavojová V, Šrol J, Ballová Mikušková E. Scientific reasoning is associated with rejection of unfounded health beliefs and adherence to evidence-based regulations during the Covid-19 pandemic. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023:1-15. [PMID: 36718393 PMCID: PMC9876755 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04284-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Scientific reasoning and trust in science are two facets of science understanding. This paper examines the contribution of science understanding, over and above analytic thinking, to the endorsement of conspiracy and pseudoscientific beliefs about COVID-19 and behavioral intentions to engage in the recommended preventive behavior. We examined the direct and indirect effects of science understanding on normative health behavior in a representative sample of the Slovak population (N = 1024). The results showed more support for the indirect pathway: individuals with a better understanding of science generally had fewer epistemically suspect beliefs and as a consequence tended to behave more in line with the evidence-based guidelines and get vaccinated. Neither scientific reasoning nor trust in science directly predicted non-compliance with preventive measures, but analytic thinking correlated positively with non-compliance with preventive measures. The strongest predictor of epistemically suspect beliefs was trust in science, which also directly predicted the intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Therefore, reasoning about which experts or sources to believe (second-order scientific reasoning) has become more important than directly evaluating the original evidence (first-order scientific reasoning). Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-023-04284-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimíra Čavojová
- Institute of Experimental Psychology, Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jakub Šrol
- Institute of Experimental Psychology, Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Eva Ballová Mikušková
- Institute of Experimental Psychology, Centre of Social and Psychological Sciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
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50
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Maciuszek J, Polak M, Stasiuk K, Rosiński J. Declared Intention to Vaccinate against COVID-19 and Actual Vaccination-The Role of Trust in Science, Conspiratorial Thinking and Religiosity. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020262. [PMID: 36851140 PMCID: PMC9965173 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS The study aims to investigate how trust in science, conspiratorial thinking, and religiosity affected people's declared willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 at the onset of the vaccination program in Poland, their actual vaccination, and the consistency between intention and vaccination. METHODS In a longitudinal design, a representative sample of 918 members of the Polish general population was polled at the beginning of the vaccination program (February 2021) and polled again after 6 months of mass vaccination (August 2021). We measured the willingness to vaccinate, actual vaccination after 6 months, and individual variables-trust in science, conspiratorial thinking and religiosity. RESULTS The actual vaccination rate was higher than the declared intent, especially in the initially undecided and unwilling groups. Higher Trust in science and lower Conspiratorial Thinking were associated with declared intent to vaccinate and actual vaccination, while Religiosity was not clearly associated with vaccination. CONCLUSIONS Declared willingness to vaccinate is not an effective indicator of actual vaccination. Trust in science and Conspiratorial thinking are important factors associated with vaccine hesitancy. There may be a possibility to influence those unwilling to vaccinate and that are undecided to eventually get vaccinated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Józef Maciuszek
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Management and Communication, Jagiellonian University, 31-007 Krakow, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Mateusz Polak
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Management and Communication, Jagiellonian University, 31-007 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Stasiuk
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Faculty of Management and Communication, Jagiellonian University, 31-007 Krakow, Poland
| | - Jerzy Rosiński
- Institute of Economy, Finance and Management, Faculty of Management and Communication, Jagiellonian University, 31-007 Krakow, Poland
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