Public Acceptance of Novel Vaccines During a Pandemic
Author Information
Author(s): N Henrich, B Holmes
Primary Institution: Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences - St Paul´s Hospital
Hypothesis
What influences a person's decision to get vaccinated with a novel vaccine in the event of a pandemic?
Conclusion
The study found that public acceptance of novel vaccines during a pandemic is influenced by perceptions of risk and concerns about vaccine safety.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants expressed concerns about the safety of new vaccines developed rapidly during a health crisis.
- Many participants felt they would not be at risk of infection when the disease was still confined to its country of origin.
- Parents were more likely to vaccinate themselves than their children due to concerns about long-term effects.
Takeaway
People are worried about getting new vaccines during a pandemic because they don't trust that they are safe and they think they might not get sick.
Methodology
The study used focus groups to gather qualitative data from the public about their perceptions and attitudes towards novel vaccines.
Potential Biases
Participants were mainly female, which may reflect how households respond to an EID pandemic.
Limitations
The focus group participants are not representative of all members of the population, and the results are not generalizable.
Participant Demographics
Participants included university students, adult Canadians from various backgrounds, parents, and health-care workers.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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