Icon arrays reduce concern over COVID-19 vaccine side effects: a randomized control study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Communication
• Vaccinology

Background:

• The Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine administration was paused in April 2021 due to a rare blood clotting side effect.
• Potential side effects are a primary concern for individuals hesitant to receive COVID-19 vaccines.
• This pause likely exacerbated vaccine hesitancy among the American public.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess changes in COVID-19 vaccine attitudes following the Johnson and Johnson vaccine pause.
• To investigate if visual representations of side effect risk could mitigate increased vaccine hesitancy.
• To determine the effectiveness of icon arrays in communicating low-probability risks.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 2,046 Americans two days after the CDC's announcement.
• Participants' attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines were assessed.
• The impact of viewing icon arrays depicting the risk of a rare side effect was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Viewing icon arrays significantly prevented an increase in aversion toward the Johnson and Johnson vaccine.
• Icon arrays also mitigated increased hesitancy towards all other COVID-19 vaccines.
• The visual communication of low-probability risks proved effective in maintaining vaccine acceptance.

Conclusions:

• Icon arrays are an effective tool for communicating complex risk information in public health messaging.
• Visual aids can help counteract negative impacts of news events on vaccine confidence.
• Effective risk communication strategies are crucial for public health initiatives, especially during vaccination campaigns.