Through an analysis of available data and social media posts, researchers have offered some insights into vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers:
- “Freedom” was a powerful motivational factor, suggesting that emphasizing “freedom from fear” post-vaccination could potentially help reduce vaccine hesitancy, the study authors suggested.
- Misinformation had an impact, so countering this early and often could be a viable strategy to help reduce vaccine hesitancy.
- Lack or perceived lack of access to vaccination led some workers to remain unvaccinated. The researchers stressed the value of making vaccine clinics accessible and convenient.
“Talking with someone about the COVID-19 vaccine doesn’t have to be a time-consuming lecture—in fact, that probably won’t work. Rather, hearing their concerns, sharing personal experiences and giving thoughtful feedback that validates and explores those concerns—something that can take less than 10 minutes—is far more powerful,” said Cassandra Boness, PhD, one of the study’s authors.
