COVID-19 Knowledge Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adults in New York City.

Abstract

Purpose: This study describes sources of COVID-19 vaccine information and COVID-19 knowledge among sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults in New York City (NYC). Methods: A sample of 986 SGM adults in NYC completed an online survey between June 25 and December 1, 2021. Participants indicated their top three sources of COVID-19 vaccine information from a list of 10 options. Participants were also categorized into low or high COVID-19 knowledge using a 14-item questionnaire. We described knowledge sources, then conducted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression to identify characteristics associated with greater knowledge. Results: The mean age of participants was 29 years (range 18-68 years). Only 12.5% identified their health care provider as a main COVID-19 vaccine information source. Social media (54.9%) and TV news channels (51.4%) were most reported as a main COVID-19 vaccine information source. COVID-19 vaccine knowledge was moderate, with four of eight questions showing correct responses in approximately 70% or more participants. In the multivariable logistic regression model, having at least some college education (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.55-3.52), attaining a master's degree (aOR: 3.28, 95% CI: 1.93-5.57), reporting a household income of $25,000-$49,999 per year (aOR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.14-2.46), and having health insurance (aOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.51-2.96) were significantly associated with high COVID-19 knowledge. Conclusion: Our sample demonstrated high levels of COVID-19 knowledge, particularly among educated individuals and those with health insurance. Primary access to health information was through social media and TV news channels.