Factors that shape COVID-19 pediatric vaccine decision-making in rural agricultural communities: A qualitative study

Abstract

While COVID-19 immunizations can improve outcomes from SARS-CoV-2, vaccine rates in the United States have been lowest among children under age 11 and among rural agricultural communities. This study examined factors influencing pediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake among rural agricultural and predominantly Hispanic communities in Washington State. We conducted in-depth interviews with school district employees and students and held English and Spanish focus group discussions with parents, all of which were audio-recorded and transcribed. We used inductive coding with constant comparison approach to capture emergent themes. We identified five factors that influenced pediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake in a rural community, including: 1) concerns and misinformation surrounding the new vaccine; 2) witnessing others' vaccine and pandemic experiences; 3) participation in social activities; 4) politicization of and political climate surrounding the vaccine; and 5) health education surrounding the vaccines. To increase pediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake in rural communities, school districts, students, and parents should receive accurate information and reassurance to dispel health concerns and misinformation, without politicization of the vaccine and fears surrounding vaccine regulations. Social networks can be leveraged to encourage vaccine uptake by sharing positive vaccination vignettes. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04859699https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04859699.

Keywords: Agricultural; Barriers; COVID-19; Facilitators; Health education; Intention; Pediatric vaccines; Rural; Vaccine hesitancy.