COVID-19 Vaccination Hesitancy in Adults in the United Kingdom: Barriers and Facilitators to Uptake

Objective: Immunization is a primary method for addressing COVID-19. Uptake in high-risk groups has been strong, however, vaccination hesitancy is more prominent among younger adults. This research sought to identify the factors influencing vaccine uptake in 18-55-year-olds.Method: Study 1, a qualitative survey (n = 80), identified beliefs about COVID vaccines and immunization programs. Study 2 (n = 473) tested whether the factors identified in study 1 predicted intention for self-vaccination and parental intention to vaccinate children. Data on vaccination behavior was obtained in Study 3 (n = 309).Results: Analysis showed individuals recognized the benefits of vaccination as a path to "return to normality " and "protect others " but concerns, such as side-effects to fertility, were apparent and for some, the personal value in vaccination was questioned. Data were interpreted as largely reflective of Health Belief Model constructs. Study 2 supported this interpretation. Specifically, Benefits of, and Barriers to, vaccination predicted intention to vaccinate oneself and their children, across Black, Asian, other minority groups (BAME) and White communities. Additionally, for BAME communities, cues to action positively predicted intention. For vaccine behavior, benefits of, and Barriers to, vaccination remained relevant in predicting vaccination behaviors, along with susceptivity and severity of COVID (no differences between ethnic communities were found). Willingness to vaccinate children decreases as the age of the child is reduced.Conclusions: Addressing vaccine hesitancy is crucial to managing COVID-19. Findings indicate emphasizing specific benefits, such as protecting others, while addressing barriers, including side-effect misinformation, is key to driving vaccine uptake.