A race for a better understanding of COVID-19 vaccine non-adopters

Abstract

In this paper, we aim to underscore the need for a more nuanced understanding of vaccine non-adopters. As the availability of vaccines does not translate into their de facto adoption—a phenomenon that may be more pronounced amid “Operation Warp Speed”—it is important for public health professionals to thoroughly understand their “customers” (i.e., end users of COVID-19 vaccines) to ensure satisfactory vaccination rates and to safeguard society at large.

Vaccines are not yet a silver bullet: The imperative of continued communication about the importance of COVID-19 safety measures

“…The efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in protecting the public from potential infections and deaths is also highly dependent on key contextual factors, ranging from vaccine potency, implementation, and vaccine hesitancy ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020b ; Su et al., 2020a , Su et al., 2020b ). Vaccine approval is followed by mass production, the process of which, in light of the competition for critical resources and logistical challenges, is highly dependent on an array of factors, ranging from the accessibility of glass vials, syringes, and needles, to advanced cold chain systems ( United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, 2020 ).…”

“…The fact that many health systems, especially their healthcare professionals, have been overstretched and overstressed, may further compound the situation ( Weber, 2020 ). In addition to mental health issues faced by the general public ( Su et al., 2020a , Su et al., 2020b ), emerging evidence shows that frontline workers also have to cope with substantial trauma or stress-related disorders, ranging from anxiety, depression, to fear of stigma and isolation ( Cabarkapa et al., 2020 ). This could lead to substantial human and economic consequences.…”

“…Among 19 respiratory therapists who intubate severely ill COVID-19 patients at Long Island Jewish Hospital in New York City, only 3 of them agreed to be vaccinated ( Robbins et al., 2021 ), even though they are at pronounced risk of contracting the virus. As reports on COVID-19’s side effects begin to merge, fact-based conversations, as well as infodemics, may further cause vaccine hesitancy to rise ( Su et al., 2020a , Su et al., 2020b ). These factors, taken together (see Fig.…”

“…Furthermore, COVID vaccines’ real-world efficacy should also consider factors ranging from vaccine delivery challenges, distribution hurdles, to potential side effects. Not to mention vaccine hesitancy, a prevalent and persistent issue many countries face, could further compound the situation ( Su et al., 2020a , Su et al., 2020b ).…”

Mental health consequences of COVID-19 media coverage: the need for effective crisis communication practices

“…Overall, in times of global pandemics like COVID-19, crisis communication can play a key part in reducing fear and uncertainty while inspiring a unified fight against health threats [ 62 – 64 , 84 ]. There has yet to be a national solution or unilateral communication during a pandemic, but considering the pronounced need for valuable media resources during COVID-19 for the greater good [ 50 ], health experts and media professionals have a responsibility to step up and put a stop to infodemics and smear campaigns.…”