About half of US adults 'very likely' to get COVID-19 vaccine - Healio

William Schaffner, MD

The results of the survey on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy by Khubchandani and colleagues validate the anecdotal experience of many of us in clinical practice. Their findings also dovetail nicely with data recently released by the Kaiser Family Foundation. The question is, how do we address this hesitancy when we encounter it in clinical practice?

While there are only a small portion of individuals in the U.S. who are anti-vaccine, there is a large group of individuals who have questions and concerns and, thus, need information and reassurance before deciding to get vaccinated. We must recognize that this discussion may take some time, and we must regard patient questions and concerns as valid.

Psychologists tell us that if we mirror patients’ concerns back to them, we can help reassure those who are anxious. Telling someone that their beliefs are wrong will prompt most individuals to double down on their beliefs. Instead, ask these patients what their concerns are, so they know they have been heard, respected and may be ready to listen to some new messages.

Depending on the circumstance, simply providing data may not be the best thing to do. Although facts are important, they do not always change behavior. If we ask about how patients feel about vaccination, we can help the patient feel more comfortable and reassured, then behavior change is more likely to follow. For example, consider an affirming statement such as, “You’re worried that the vaccine may not be safe. We hear that a lot.” Then, emphasize the positive: “The vaccine has been tested in multiple clinical trials, each of which has involved thousands of individuals.” Personalize it: “I got the vaccine; everyone here on our staff got vaccinated.” We can also explain how receiving a vaccination helps protect their family and friends. Recast the notion that the individual is doing something for others, not just themselves.

We cannot expect people to change their minds immediately — we must give people permission to think about it. With influenza vaccine, I will push my patients and make annual flu vaccination the norm. With the COVID-19 vaccines, the circumstances are different. Because these are new vaccines, we need to give patients time to consider: “We’re always here for you. You can always come back to get the vaccine.” (We hope that will be true very soon.)

Reference:

Hamel L, et al. KFF COVID-19 vaccine monitor: December 2020. https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/report/kff-covid-19-vaccine-monitor-december-2020/. Accessed January 11, 2021.

William Schaffner, MD

Infectious Disease News Editorial Board member
Medical director, National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Disclosures: Schaffner reports no relevant financial disclosures.

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About half of US adults 'very likely' to get COVID-19 vaccine - Healio
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