Prediction and reasons for COVID-19 second dose vaccine hesitation: a cross-sectional study in a municipality of Brazil

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Hesitation and refusal to take a second dose of the vaccine for coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) are prevalent. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to identify predictive factors for hesitation or refusal and describe groups with higher rates of vaccine hesitancy. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional study in Assis City, Brazil. METHODS: The study included adults who passed the due date for taking the COVID-19 second dose vaccine. Participants were recruited in December 2021 using a mobile-based text message. Sociodemographic and clinical data and reasons for hesitance were collected. The outcome was the attitude towards completing the recommended second dose of the vaccine. Bivariate and multivariate Poisson analyses were performed to determine the adjusted predictors. RESULTS: Participants between 30-44 years of age had a 2.41 times higher prevalence of hesitation than those aged 18-29 years. In addition, people who had adverse events or previously had COVID-19 had 4.7 and 5.4 times higher prevalences of hesitation, respectively (P value < 0.05). CONCLUSION: We found a significant group of adults aged between 30-44 years who refused the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Furthermore, those who reported adverse effects after the first dose and those who had COVID-19 previously were a significant group for refusal.

A Systematic Review on Sociodemographic, Financial and Psychological Factors Associated with COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Hesitancy among Adult Population

“…Quite in contrast, Sameh Attia et al [ 34 ] suggested that those with a history of infection (76.4%) expressed significantly ( p < 0.01) greater VBH. Similarly, Carlos Izaias Sartorão-Filho et al [ 49 ] showed that people infected with COVID-19 were 5.4 times more likely to express VBH. Moreover, Yufang Sun et al [ 48 ] and Gede Benny Setia Wirawan et al [ 21 ] suggested that rapid viral mutation and strain changes were reasons for VBH.…”

“…One of the major reasons for VBH was side effects associated with previous COVID-19 vaccine doses (10.3% of respondents), according to Mohamed Abouzid et al [ 18 ]. Carlos Izaias Sartorão-Filho et al [ 49 ] stated 4.7 times more VBH due to a history of side effects. Jairoun et al [ 36 ]’s study showed 35.1% of participants expressing concern due to negative side effects, whereas 65.5% were worried about unforeseen side effects and 47.3% were hesitant due to general mistrust.…”

“…Many reports have confirmed the multifactorial nature of vaccine hesitancy, necessitating multifaceted, tailored interventions that address all potentially modifiable factors [ 49 ]. Indeed, customized education, proper communication on perceived risks and benefits, and strategic legislation might help reduce VBH among HC workers [ 50 ].…”