Factors shaping Covid-19 vaccine acceptability among young people in South Africa and Nigeria: An exploratory qualitative study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003795
• Publication Date: 2025-03-18T17:29:20Z
• Authors: Marisa Casale; Oluwaseyi Somefun; Genevieve Haupt R...; Joshua Sumankuuro; Olagoke Akintola; Lorraine Sherr; Lucie Cluver
• Keywords: Distrust; Thematic Analysis; Misinformation; Exploratory research

Covid-19 vaccine hesitancy among young people can be seen as an acute – but not isolated phenomenon within alarming longer-term trend of broader distrust in Africa. Yet there are still considerable knowledge gaps relation to the scope and drivers low acceptability people. Moreover, better frameworks tools needed conceptualise understand this population group. We applied recently published Accelerate Framework for Young People’s Acceptability guide qualitative research with living South Africa Nigeria. aimed investigate their overall vaccine, explore factors shaping willingness vaccinated. In collaboration seven community-based organisation partners, we conducted 12 in-person focus groups 36 remote interviews 163 individuals aged 15-24. Through a collaborative, iterative process thematic analysis, incorporating aspects both deductive inductive approaches. Our findings show how is shaped by multiplicity inter-related factors. They also provide more in-depth perspective some these phenomena, relative importance connections group Limited understanding, conflicting information distrust, influence others, fear side effects were key acceptability. Factors promoting instead: positive perceptions safety efficacy, protection from disease, desire return normal activity. discuss implications policy practice, increase vaccination people, broadly promote critical component public health programs. Lastly, reflect on first application Framework, its use future studies.