Hesitancy towards COVID-19 Vaccination and Neutralization of False Perceptions among the Communities

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), which has invaded every continent very rapidly, has already been a pandemic. The best solution only seems to be the vaccination rather than simple preventive measures such as wearing masks, frequent hand washing, and social distancing.

In this article, we analyze the factors affecting hesitancy, delay, and refusal of Covid-19 vaccines and suggest how to take steps to overcome the vaccine hesitancy, thus increasing acceptance and eliminating the pandemic as soon as possible.

A comprehensive literature search was performed using Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify empirical literature published in English until April 2021. 

Several countries and pharmaceutical companies have come up with different vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Since several strains are emerging, more new vaccines will come to the market. The cost, facilities available, and convenience need to be considered in choosing an option for vaccination. Although the world is looking at the positives of vaccines and getting out of this threat, some more factors might slow down that effort. Vaccine hesitancy, delay, or refusal should be discussed extensively as that influences the vaccination process remarkably.

The demographic features of several communities, educational background, socio-economic status, and trust in healthcare services are factors leading to vaccine hesitancy or acceptance. The governments, experts, and healthcare professionals should have an excellent understanding of the factors influencing hesitancy and acceptance and should take necessary steps to encourage the population's vaccination.