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COVID-19 vaccination acceptability in the UK at the start of the vaccination programme: a nationally representative cross-sectional survey (CoVAccS – wave 2).

Sherman, S; Sim, J; Cutts, M; Rubin, GJ; Sevdalis, N; Smith, LE; Dasch, H; Amlôt, R

Authors

M Cutts

GJ Rubin

N Sevdalis

LE Smith

H Dasch

R Amlôt



Abstract

Objectives: To investigate factors associated with intention to have the COVID-19 vaccination following initiation of the UK national vaccination programme. Study Design: 1,500 adults completed an online cross-sectional survey (13th–15th January 2021). Methods: Linear regression analyses were used to investigate associations between intention to be vaccinated for COVID-19 and sociodemographic factors, previous influenza vaccination, attitudes and beliefs about COVID-19, and attitudes and beliefs about COVID-19 vaccination and vaccination in general. Participants’ main reasons for likely vaccination (non-)uptake were also solicited. Results: 73.5% of participants (95% CI 71.2%, 75.7%) reported being likely to be vaccinated against COVID-19, 17.3% (95% CI 15.4%, 19.3%) were unsure, and 9.3% (95% CI 7.9%, 10.8%) reported being unlikely to be vaccinated. The full regression model explained 69.8% of the variance in intention. Intention was associated with: having been/intending to be vaccinated for influenza last winter/this winter; stronger beliefs about social acceptability of a COVID-19 vaccine; the perceived need for vaccination; adequacy of information about the vaccine; and weaker beliefs that the vaccine is unsafe. Beliefs that only those at serious risk of illness should be vaccinated and that the vaccines are just a means for manufacturers to make money were negatively associated with vaccination intention. Conclusions: Most participants reported being likely to get the COVID-19 vaccination. COVID-19 vaccination attitudes and beliefs are a crucial factor underpinning vaccine intention. Continued engagement with the public with a focus on the importance and safety of vaccination is recommended.

Acceptance Date Oct 9, 2021
Publication Date Oct 18, 2021
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Public Health
Print ISSN 0033-3506
Publisher Elsevier
Pages 1-9
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.puhe.2021.10.008
Keywords Hesitancy; Side effects; Beliefs; Attitudes; Barriers; Covid-19 vaccines
Publisher URL https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0033350621004145