The social and socio-political embeddedness of COVID-19 vaccination decision-making: A five-country qualitative interview study from Europe

• DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.02.012
• Publication Date: 2023-02-16T06:21:10Z
• Authors: Bettina M. Zimmer...; Katharina T. Paul; Emília R. Araújo; Alena Buyx; Sebastian Ferstl; Amelia Fiske; David Kraus; Luca Marelli; Stuart McLennan; Vittoria Porta; Barbara Prainsack; Isabella M. Radhuber; Gertrude Saxinger
• Keywords: Embeddedness; Pandemic

The uptake ofCOVID-19 vaccines has varied considerably across European countries. This study investigates people's decision-making process regarding vaccination by analyzing qualitative interviews (n = 214) with residents from five countries: Austria, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Switzerland. We identify three factors that shape decision-making: individual experiences pre-existing attitudes towards vaccination, social environment, socio-political context. Based on this analysis, we present a typology of COVID-19 vaccines, where some types stable stances others change over time. Trust in government relevant stakeholders, broader factors, direct environment were particularly to these dynamics. conclude campaigns should be considered long-term projects (also outside pandemics) need regular adjustment, communication fine-tuning ensure public trust. is pertinent for booster vaccinations, such as or influenza.