Identifying barriers to vaccination intention at walk-in vaccination facilities in deprived neighbourhoods: A cross-sectional survey.

OBJECTIVES

Low COVID-19 vaccination adherence in deprived neighbourhoods is problematic since the prevalence of chronic diseases associated with mortality rates due to COVID-19 is higher in these populations. The aim of this study is to provide an insight about beliefs and considerations relating to vaccination intention among inhabitants of deprived neighbourhoods in the Netherlands.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

Easily accessible vaccination facilities at markets in deprived neighbourhoods in the Netherlands.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were recruited at three vaccination facilities that were set up at markets in deprived neighbourhoods in Rotterdam. A total of 124 surveys were retained for analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

RESULTS

The survey was filled out by 124 respondents; 62 % had - prior to visiting the easily accessible locations - intended to get a COVID-19 vaccine and 38 % were hesitant (22.3 % had doubts and 15.7 % did not plan to get vaccinated). Many people mentioned the convenience of an easily accessible location nearby. At the bivariate level, the influence of information from the family was associated with vaccination intention (p < 0.01). In a logistic regression model, both fear of vaccination and fear of side-effects were significantly associated with vaccination intention (ORs 0.56 (CI 0.35-0.89) and 0.47 (CI 0.30-0.73)).

CONCLUSION

The accessibility of a vaccination facility, family influence and fear are relevant factors for the intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in people living in deprived neighbourhoods. Interventions should address these factors in order to increase vaccination uptake.