Unique predictors of intended uptake of a COVID-19 vaccine

Lennon, R. P.; Small, M. L.; Smith, R. A.; Van Scoy, L. J.; Myrick, J. G.; Martin, M. A.; Group, Data4Action Research

Introduction. An effective vaccine for COVID-19 is only of value if the public has confidence in taking it. There is little data on COVID-19-specific vaccine confidence or its determinants in the United States. The objective of this study was to determine public confidence in a COVID-19 vaccine. Methods. A cross-sectional survey of Pennsylvanian adults, August-October, 2020, to identify their likelihood of taking an approved, no-cost coronavirus vaccine, general vaccine acceptance, and sociodemographic traits to identify predictors of vaccine acceptance. Results. Of the 950 respondents, 55% were "very likely", 20% "somewhat likely", 14% "unsure", 4% "somewhat unlikely", and 7% "very unlikely" to take a coronavirus vaccine, even though 70% had taken the flu vaccine since September 2019. The strongest predictors of vaccine acceptance were trust in the system evaluating vaccines and perceptions of local COVID-19 vaccination norms. The strongest predictors of negative vaccine intentions were worries about unknown side-effects and positive attitudes toward natural infection. Sociodemographic factors, political views, and religiosity did not predict vaccine intentions. Conclusions. Fewer adults intend to take a coronavirus vaccine than currently take the flu vaccine. To overcome coronavirus vaccine hesitancy, information campaigns to reinforce positive predictors and overcome negative predictors are indicated.