Intent to get vaccinated against COVID-19 among reproductive-aged women in Texas

Abstract

Data are needed on the acceptability of Covid-19 vaccination among young, low-income, diverse populations. To assess this, we surveyed 18–45-year-old women on their intent to be vaccinated, experiences with Covid-19, and uptake of other vaccines. Among the 342 who completed the survey, only one-third were likely to accept the Covid-19 vaccine as soon as it was available. Less than half would accept it even if recommended by their doctor. Most (69%) wanted more information on its safety and 48% wanted proof it works. Likelihood of accepting the vaccine with a doctor’s recommendation was associated with fear of catching Covid-19 and exposure to social media as well as HPV and annual flu vaccination. This demonstrates it will be necessary to help vaccine-hesitant individuals overcome their concerns to reach herd immunity in the US. Physician recommendation and social media may play important roles.

Keywords

• covid-19
• hesitancy
• provider recommendation
• vaccine
• physician education