COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Associated Factors among Adults and Adolescents Attending COVID-19 Vaccination Centre of South India-A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Challenges related to the acceptance and refusal of COVID-19 vaccination (vaccine hesitancy)emerged as a significant problem worldwide.Objectives: 1. To study socio-demographic profile of the study participants.2.To assess association betweensociodemographic characteristics and vaccine hesitancy among study participants.3. To find out the reasons for vaccination hesitancy among study participants.Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at COVID-19 vaccination centre, in South India. Studyparticipants included were subjects who were due for COVID-19 vaccine. Total sample size was 385.Data wascollected by interview technique.Results: Majority,311(80.8%) of the respondents were urban residents and were in 18-30 age group. Malerespondents were higher 227, (59.0%) than female,158(41.0%). Regarding reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, majority, 107 (27.8%) reported they were unaware of vaccination schedule followed by 97 (25.2%) not getting time to go for vaccination and 49 (12.7%) respondents reported fear of side effects of COVID-19 vaccine. We found statistically significant association between COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and socio-demographic variables like their residence, age, gender, type of family, educational level, marital status and co-morbidity. Conclusion: Regardless of the source of vaccine hesitancy, interventions to encourage vaccination by simplifying messages and emphasizing benefits can be effective.