Published: March 24, 2021
The Bottom Line
- Research evidence shows that vaccine hesitancy is universal across countries.
- Vaccine acceptance and uptake can be increased by using three types of strategies: 1) creating an enabling environment; 2) harnessing social influences; and 3) increasing motivation.
- Communication interventions should be tailored to mitigate inequalities, particularly to Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups who have higher rates of infection, morbidity and mortality, as well as unvaccinated or under-vaccinated populations.
The COVID-19 vaccination campaign has been underway in the country and elsewhere in the world for the past few weeks. Although there are still challenges in terms of vaccine supply, decision-makers are also facing the challenge of communicating to the public about their vaccination plans, and the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. This is particularly challenging in a context where new information (and misinformation) about COVID-19 vaccines is emerging on a daily basis. This can exacerbate vaccine hesitancy or confidence among the public, which may interfere with the achievement of vaccination targets. Indeed, it is estimated that 60-80% of the world’s population must be vaccinated to achieve “herd immunity” for COVID-19. According to the Mayo Clinic, herd immunity (sometimes referred as community immunity) occurs when a large portion of a community (the herd) becomes immune to a disease, which makes the spread of the disease from person to person unlikely.
The McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (mcmasteroptimalaging.org), a unique online health resource created by McMaster University to support the healthy aging of Canada’s older adult population, is highlighting ways to stay active and engaged while practicing physical distancing during the current COVID-19 pandemic.​ Read more.
