Associations between religion, religiosity, and parental vaccine hesitancy

Abstract

IntroductionReligious vaccine exemptions are widely available and increasing despite decreases in American religiosity. We tested associations between religion, religiosity, and caregiver vaccine hesitancy in a sample of caregivers of 2-year-olds. MethodsWe analyzed data from a 2020 survey in three pediatric clinics, estimating distinct multivariable logistic regression models to examine associations. ResultsOur sample included 255 predominantly poor, Latino, Christian, and English-speaking caregivers (response rate: 90%); 13% were vaccine hesitant. Caregivers identifying with major faith traditions were not more likely to be hesitant than those without a tradition (adjusted odds ratio 1.46; 95% CI 0.29, 7.26). There were no significant associations between caregiver vaccine hesitancy and three religiosity domains. ConclusionsWe found no associations between parental vaccine hesitancy, religiosity, or adherence to a major faith tradition in a sample of mostly poor, Latino, Christian mothers. Additional work is needed to inform exemption policies and public health and faith leaders.