High-risk groups forgo vaccination despite it being free
Although influenza and COVID-19 vaccination are offered free of charge to people at increased risk of severe illness, many still choose not to get vaccinated. A new study from Umeå University shows that the main barriers are not financial or related to distance from vaccination services. Instead, those most likely to forgo vaccination were younger individuals, men, smokers, and people with…
Free influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations are provided to people at high risk of severe illness, yet many individuals in these groups still choose not to get vaccinated. A new study conducted by researchers at Umeå University reveals that factors other than financial constraints or distance to vaccination services play a significant role in this decision-making process.
Younger individuals, men, smokers, and those with reduced independence were found to be the most likely to forgo vaccination. The researchers were surprised to discover that the local environment had a minimal impact on vaccination uptake, suggesting that efforts to improve vaccination rates should focus more on these high-risk groups.
The findings, published in the journal Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics, highlight the need for targeted interventions to increase awareness and accessibility of vaccinations for these vulnerable populations.
Written by urgent.news from Medical Xpress's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
