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COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Parents: A Qualitative Study.

Authors :: Honcoop A
Roberts JR
Davis B
Pope C
Dawley E
McCulloh RJ
Garza MY
Greer ML
Snowden J
Fu LY
Young H
Dehority W
Enlow PT
Watts DJ
Queen K
Costello LM
Alamarat Z
Darden PM
Source :: Pediatrics [Pediatrics] 2023 Nov 01; Vol. 152 (5).
Publication Year :: 2023
Abstract: Objectives: Addressing parental/caregivers' coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy is critical to improving vaccine uptake in children. Common concerns have been previously reported through online surveys, but qualitative data from KII and focus groups may add much-needed context. Our objective was to examine factors impacting pediatric COVID-19 vaccine decision-making in Black, Spanish-speaking, and rural white parents/caregivers to inform the content design of a mobile application to improve pediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake.<br />Methods: Parents/caregivers of children aged 2 to 17 years from groups disproportionately affected by COVID-19-related vaccine hesitancy (rural-dwelling persons of any race/ethnicity, urban Black persons, and Spanish-speaking persons) were included on the basis of their self-reported vaccine hesitancy and stratified by race/ethnicity. Those expressing vaccine acceptance or refusal participated in KII, and those expressing hesitancy in focus groups. Deidentified transcripts underwent discourse analysis and thematic analysis, both individually and as a collection. Themes were revised until coders reached consensus.<br />Results: Overall, 36 participants completed the study: 4 vaccine acceptors and 4 refusers via KIIs, and the remaining 28 participated in focus groups. Participants from all focus groups expressed that they would listen to their doctor for information about COVID-19 vaccines. Infertility was a common concern, along with general concerns about vaccines. Vaccine decision-making was informed by the amount of information available to parents/caregivers, including scientific research; possible positive and negative long-term effects; and potential impacts of vaccination on preexisting medical conditions.<br />Conclusions: Parents/caregivers report numerous addressable vaccine concerns. Our results will inform specific, targeted interventions for improving COVID-19 vaccine confidence.<br /> (Copyright © 2023 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.)