COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and refusal and associated factors in an adult population in Saskatchewan, Canada: Evidence from predictive modelling

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259513
• Publication Date: 2021-11-12T18:31:38Z
• Authors: Nazeem Muhajarine; Daniel A. Adeyinka; Jessica McCutcheon; Kathryn L. Green; Miles Fahlman; Natalie Kallio
• Keywords: Pandemic

Background A high population level of vaccination is required to control the COVID-19 pandemic, but not all Canadians are convinced value and safety vaccination. Understanding more about these individuals can aid in developing strategies increase their acceptance a vaccine. The objectives this study were describe vaccine acceptance, hesitancy refusal rates associated factors Saskatchewan, Canada. Methods This cross-sequential that consisted pooled responses from weighted samples 9,252 Saskatchewan adults (≥18 years) across nine rounds data collection between May 4, 2020 April 3, 2021. outcome variable was intention: hesitancy, refusal. independent variables layered into socio-demographic factors, risk exposure coronavirus, mitigating behaviours, perceptions COVID-19. Data analyzed using multinomial logistic regression classification tree. Results Seventy-six percent respondents indicated they had been or willing be vaccinated, 13% yet decided, remaining 11% said would vaccinated. Factors increased likelihood lower education level, financial instability, Indigenous status, being concerned spreading coronavirus. Perceiving threat one’s community believing one higher illness death decreased both hesitancy. Women newcomers Canada likely unsure getting Respondents who did plan vaccinated less wear face masks practice physical distancing. Conclusion While many have voluntarily eagerly become already, reaching sufficient coverage require targeted efforts convince those resistant unsure. Identifying overcoming any barriers exist within groups we found least crucial component.