Harm from vaccines : science, myth or reality

Abstract

Re-emergence of vaccine hesitancy has been observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased disease burden on public health. Social media plays a vital role in influencing an individual’s intention towards vaccination, where scientific and rumoured information are accessible to all social network users. Characterising science, myths and realities of vaccines-related information can contribute to addressing vaccine hesitancy, consequently facilitating vaccination uptake. The aim of the study was to identify determinants of vaccination intention among the general population. A self-administered questionnaire was developed and validated by an expert panel consisting of two physicians, a hospital pharmacist, a community pharmacist and two laypersons. The questionnaire was disseminated online over a four-week period among individuals who were non-healthcare professionals and aged 18 years or older. Descriptive statistics were performed. A total of 111 respondents (59 female, 73% <45 years old, 63% graduate level of education, 69% Maltese) completed the questionnaire. COVID-19 vaccination rate in this study was 97.3% (n=108). Concern regarding the safety profile of novel COVID-19 vaccines was the reason for not taking the vaccine in 2 of the 3 unvaccinated participants. Among the vaccinated individuals, the main determinants were to protect themselves (n=77, 69%) and the people around them (n=82, 74%). Forty-seven percent (n=51) completed the first booster and 9% (n=10) did not accept the booster dose. The majority (60%, n=65) experienced at least one adverse effect after immunisation, mostly tiredness (n=35), fever (n=33) and muscle aches (n=33). Mandatory vaccination against COVID-19 was agreed by 37% (n=41) of the participants while an equal percentage disagreed. Most respondents (69%, n=77) referred to national media, including TV, radio and newspapers, as the main source of COVID-19 information, followed by social media (48%, n=53). Most respondents ranked effectiveness (42%, n=47) and side-effects (30%, n=33) as ‘extremely important’ indicators when deciding to accept or refuse vaccination against viral infections in general. This study identified effectiveness and information about side-effects as the key determinants of vaccination intention. National and social media were the main sources of COVID-19 information among the participants.