COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Rural Midwestern Infertility Patients: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Pregnant individuals with COVID-19 face elevated risks of maternal mortality and severe illness.
• Vaccine hesitancy in this demographic contributed to lower vaccination rates and increased mortality during the pandemic.
• Rural Midwestern populations mirrored this trend, necessitating investigation into specific attitudes and beliefs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions regarding COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among rural Midwestern infertility patients and their partners.
• To identify factors influencing vaccine acceptance and refusal in this high-risk population.
• To inform strategies aimed at improving vaccination rates and mitigating maternal morbidity and mortality.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was administered to 390 rural Midwestern patients undergoing evaluation for infertility or trying to conceive.
• Data collected included vaccination status, reasons for hesitancy/refusal, sociodemographic factors, information sources, and employer vaccination requirements.
• The Health Belief Model guided the development of questions assessing attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions toward vaccines.

Main Results:

• Vaccine-hesitant patients expressed significant concerns about rapid vaccine development, safety, and the risk-benefit ratio.
• Physician recommendation was a significant factor influencing vaccine acceptance.
• Provision of written resources and employer vaccination requirements also increased the likelihood of vaccination.

Conclusions:

• Specific concerns and effective strategies for addressing vaccine hesitancy in this at-risk population were identified.
• Improving vaccination rates through targeted interventions can reduce maternal mortality and morbidity, especially in rural settings.
• Addressing vaccine hesitancy is crucial for protecting pregnant individuals and improving overall public health outcomes.