Associations between religion, religiosity, and parental vaccine hesitancy. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Williams, Joshua T.B.; Rice, John D.; O'Leary, Sean T.
• Is Part Of: Vaccine. Volume 9(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Religion -- Religiosity -- Vaccine hesitancy -- Religious exemptions
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2021.100121
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2590-1362

Abstract

Highlights: Americans are decreasingly religious, but religious vaccine exemptions are increasing. We tested associations between parental vaccine hesitancy, religion, and religiosity. We analyzed data from a 2020 survey of parents of 2-year-olds (RR 90%) in 3 clinics. Of 255 mostly Christian, Latino parents, 68% were religious and 13% vaccine hesitant. Parental hesitancy was not associated with major faith traditions or 3 religiosity domains. Abstract: Introduction: Religious 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. Methods: We analyzed data from a 2020 survey in three pediatric clinics, estimating distinct multivariable logistic regression models to examine associations. Results: Our 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. Conclusions: We 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.