Disparities in national and state estimates of COVID-19 vaccination receipt and intent to vaccinate by race/ethnicity, income, and age group among adults ≥ 18 years, United States. Issue 1 (3rd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nguyen, Kimberly H.; Anneser, Elyssa; Toppo, Alexander; Allen, Jennifer D.; Scott Parott, J.; Corlin, Laura
• Is Part Of: Vaccine. Volume 40:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 107
• Page End: 113
• Publication Date: 2022-01-03
• Subjects: COVID-19 vaccination -- Vaccine confidence -- Vaccine hesitancy -- Race -- Ethnicity -- Disparities; Vaccines -- Periodicals; 615.372
• DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.11.040
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-410X

Abstract

Highlights: We used data from a nationally representative survey fielded from January to March 2021. COVID-19 vaccine intent differed by race/ethnicity, income, age, and region/state. Younger, lower income non-Hispanic Black adults were least likely to intend to vaccinate. Main reason for lack of COVID-19 vaccination was concern about possible side effects. Abstract: Introduction: COVID-19 morbidity and mortality has disproportionately affected vulnerable populations such as minority racial/ethnic groups. Understanding disparities in vaccine intentions and reasons for vaccine hesitancy are important for developing effective strategies for ameliorating racial/ethnic COVID-19 inequities. Methods: Using six waves of the large, nationally representative Census Bureau's Household Pulse Survey data from January 6-March 29, 2021 (n = 459, 235), we examined national and state estimates for vaccination intent, defined as receipt of ≥ 1 dose of the COVID-19 vaccine or definite intent to be vaccinated, by race/ethnicity with stratification by household income and age group. In separate logistic regression models, we also examined the interaction between race/ethnicity and household income, and race/ethnicity and age group, and its association with vaccination intent. Lastly, we examined reasons for not vaccinating by race/ethnicity. Results: Vaccination intent differed by racial/ethnic group, household income, and age group nationally and by Health and Human Services (HHS) region and state. A significant interaction was observed between race/ethnicity and household income (F(8, 72) = 4.50, p < 0.001), and race/ethnicity and age group (F(8, 72) = 15.66, p < 0.001). Non-Hispanic Black adults with lower income (<$35, 000) and younger age (18–49 years) were least likely to intend to vaccinate. Similar disparities across racial/ethnic groups were seen across most HHS regions and states. Concerns about possible side effects and effectiveness were significantly higher among all minority groups compared to non-Hispanic White adults. Conclusion: Disparities in vaccination intent by racial/ethnic groups underscore the need for interventions and recommendations designed to improve vaccination coverage and confidence in underserved communities, such as younger and lower income racial/ethnic minority groups. Efforts to reduce disparities and barriers to vaccination are needed to achieve equity in vaccination coverage, and ultimately, to curb COVID-19 transmission.