Opinions, Attitudes and Factors Related to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Uptake in Eight South American Countries

Abstract

This article presents attitudes and practices regarding COVID-19 vaccination in the South American population. The study collected data from a self-administered survey distributed through social media platforms between February and April 2022 (N = 6555). The survey included questions related to participants' sociodemographic background, flu vaccination practices, sources of information about COVID-19, and opinions regarding pandemic management and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The respondents agreed with the statement that COVID-19 vaccines were necessary (86.4%), effective (79.8%), safe (79.1%), and should be mandatory (64%). Overall, 83.4% accepted vaccination and 12.3% refused it completely. Main rejection reasons were safety (65.8%) and efficacy (54.9%) issues, and rushed development and approvals (49.1%). Vaccine uptake was associated with being ≥60 years, being a healthcare worker, previous influenza vaccine uptake, adherence to preventive measures, the death of ≥1 close people from COVID-19, and being informed through mass media or health authorities' channels. Vaccine uptake inversely correlated with male gender, low educational level, and use of closed social networks for COVID-19 information purposes. This study provides valuable insights into COVID-19 vaccination attitudes and practices in South America that may be used to promote vaccine uptake in the region. Higher COVID-19 vaccination acceptance among people with previously acquired prevention habits reinforces the importance of routine health promotion strategies.

Keywords: COVID-19; coronavirus; vaccine; vaccine hesitancy.

Figure 1

Perceptions of Necessity, Efficacy, Safety, and Mandatory vaccination of COVID-19 Vaccines.

Figure 2

Number of vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals against COVID-19 and vaccines received by respondents in each country. Data were analyzed using the χ2-test and represented by bar graphs. (A) displays the respondent’s vaccination uptake by country. (B) illustrates the vaccines received by respondents (multiple answers were allowed).

Figure 3

Reasons for COVID-19 vaccination acceptance. Multiple answers (up to three) were allowed.

Figure 4

Reasons for COVID-19 vaccination rejection or hesitancy. Multiple answers (up to three) were allowed.

Figure 5

Forest plot of vaccination against COVID-19 for contextual influences. Individuals who were vaccinated compared to individuals who were not vaccinated against COVID-19. Odds-ratio (OR) and the respective 95% confidence intervals (CI) are denoted by black dots and black lines, respectively.