Title: Majority of US Adults Express Reluctance towards COVID-19 Vaccine, New Poll Finds
As the world eagerly awaits the arrival of a COVID-19 vaccine, a recent poll conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) sheds light on the public’s sentiments surrounding its potential uptake. The survey, which polled 1,296 US adults between September 6 and September 13, revealed that 52% of respondents expressed skepticism and stated that they would “probably” or “definitely” not take the vaccine.
Interestingly, the study found that political allegiance played a role in the respondents’ stance on vaccination. Among Democrats, a staggering 70% declared their intention to receive the vaccine, in contrast to only 24% of Republicans. This partisan divide reflects the broader divisions seen in the nation in terms of COVID-19 precautions, with 58% of Democrats stating their likelihood of adhering to additional safety measures such as wearing masks and avoiding public gatherings. In contrast, just 16% of Republicans expressed the same commitment.
Age also emerged as a defining factor in vaccine acceptance. Those aged 65 and older were more inclined to get vaccinated, with 23% reporting that they would “definitely” do so, and another 23% indicating they would “probably” take the vaccine. Meanwhile, only 16% of younger adults expressed a definitive intention to vaccinate.
Despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommending COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 6 months and older, the survey indicated that over half of parents would “probably” or “definitely” not inoculate their children against the virus. In contrast, the majority of adults and parents still support mandatory vaccinations for illnesses such as measles, mumps, and rubella.
Interestingly, the poll found that Americans appear to be more willing to receive other vaccines such as the flu shot and the new RSV vaccine, suggesting a distinct hesitancy or skepticism specifically related to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a respected professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, emphasizes the importance of making an informed decision about the COVID-19 vaccine based on factual information rather than politics or fear. He advises individuals who have recently recovered from COVID-19 or have experienced severe reactions to prior vaccines to exercise caution when considering the new vaccine. However, he highlights that elderly individuals and adults with underlying health conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, and cancer, should weigh the potential risks of the vaccine against the heightened threat posed by the virus itself.
As the global community eagerly edges closer to the potential release of a COVID-19 vaccine, understanding public sentiment and addressing concerns will be crucial in ensuring widespread acceptance and successful implementation of this vital preventive measure.
