The Most Significant Factor Responsible for COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in England

Abstract

Objectives: This research aims to evaluate the factors responsible for the acceptability and hesitancy of the COVID-19 vaccine in England by evaluating the public's willingness to get the vaccinations. This is cross-sectional population-based research where data were collected through a structured online survey.
 Methods: From December 2021 to February 2022, a cross-sectional survey including English residents was carried out utilizing a structured online questionnaire. Participants' demographics and opinions on COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccination were surveyed.
 Results: There were 320 participants, of which 286 people (89.7%) were from West Midlands region of England. 296 (92.5%) had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccination with 127 of them (43%) having taken at least 2 doses of the COVID 19 vaccine. 24 people (7.5%) had not yet taken the COVID-19 vaccine. 17.9% (53 people) of the 296 indicated that they were hesitant at first before taking the vaccination whilst 82.1%(243 people) said they had confidence in the COVID-19 vaccination. The main reason given by 208 people (70.1%) for taking the vaccine was to protect others and themselves. Altogether 75 out of 320 people (23.4%) felt hesitant about taking the COVID-19 Vaccine. The most indicated reason for this by 47 people (62.7%) was a lack of trust in the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines. 193 respondents (79.8%) indicated they were happy with their decision.
 Conclusion: The COVID-19 vaccine has been administered to a significant majority of the study participants. However, this study has shown that lack of trust in the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines is the most indicated reason for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and therefore further awareness-raising actions may still be needed from the government, public health professionals, and advocacy organizations in order to persuade more people to adopt the COVID-19 vaccination.