Non-EPI Vaccine Hesitancy among Chinese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Vaccination is crucial for controlling the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Understanding vaccine hesitancy is vital for improving vaccine uptake in China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy towards non-Expanded Program on Immunization (non-EPI) and COVID-19 vaccines among Chinese adults.
• To explore the impact of vaccine hesitancy on vaccine uptake.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was conducted in China with 7381 adults (aged ≥ 18).
• Vaccine hesitancy was assessed using the 3C model and logistic regression, with structural equation modeling used to analyze variable correlations.

Main Results:

• 67.6% reported hesitancy towards non-EPI vaccines, and 24.7% towards COVID-19 vaccines.
• Fear of side effects was the primary reason for vaccine rejection (60.5%).
• Vaccine hesitancy negatively correlated with confidence and convenience, but positively with complacence.

Conclusions:

• Significant vaccine hesitancy exists for both non-EPI and COVID-19 vaccines in China, particularly concerning vaccine safety.
• Medical staff recommendations strongly influence vaccination decisions.
• Targeted interventions addressing safety concerns and building confidence are needed to improve vaccine uptake.