We Can Do This: Understanding COVID-19 vaccine campaign elements through message frames and emotional appeals

Abstract This study looks into the message frames, emotional appeals, and approaches used in the We Can Do This COVID-19 vaccine campaign by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). A quantitative content analysis of 145 campaign ads and videos was guided by framing theory. Results indicate that the campaign messages primarily focused on vaccine benefits and used aninformational approach to messaging. Consistent use of hope is observed alongside frames, such as vaccine information, facts and findings, and preventive measures. The moral obligation frame uses a more negative appeal (i.e., guilt) across the campaign elements. Additionally, while informational messages incorporate a more fearappeal, sadness, guilt, and hope remain the consistent emotional appeals in the transformational message approach. The findings of this study can serve as a valuable resource for the U.S. Government authorities and other healthcare experts in the implementation of comparable vaccination campaigns.