Abstract
This paper investigates the spatial dimension of socioeconomic and demographic factors behind COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. With a focus on a county with considerable sociodemographic diversity in the state of Texas, USA, we apply regression models to census-tract-level data of the unvaccinated population. In addition to disparities in accessing the vaccination service, particularly for residents in rural areas, empirical results confirm under-vaccination among lower socioeconomic neighborhoods and communities with signs of distrust in government. The spatial model regressions further underscore the impact that vaccine hesitancy among residents in one community spread to its nearby communities. This observed spatial spillover effect is attributable to the geographic interactions of similar socioeconomic groups.
Highlights
The newly developed COVID-19 vaccines have been widely viewed in the United States as effective at preventing the coronavirus disease, hospitalization, and even deaths
One notable exception is the variable for seniors, which becomes statistically significant at the 10% level
In addition to transportation barriers, for residents living in rural communities, our regression results confirm the role of socioeconomic factors that reflect economic insecurity, educational attainment, that affects income earnings
Summary
The newly developed COVID-19 vaccines have been widely viewed in the United States as effective at preventing the coronavirus disease, hospitalization, and even deaths. Despite the widely publicized benefits and availability of the COVID-19 vaccination, no more than 60 percent of the U.S population was fully vaccinated by the end of 2021 [2]. Public health experts and policymakers alike have struggled to identify strategies to continue to reduce COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, defined as the delay in acceptance or refusal of the service [3]. To enhance the progress of COVID-19 vaccination, the critical first step is to understand the underlying drivers behind unvaccinated individuals, their hesitancy or skepticism about the service. It remains a challenge to effectively implement vaccine campaign strategies to target those population segments with under-vaccination rates
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
