COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Associated Factors Among Underserved Communities in South Carolina: Results from a...

The effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines in reducing adverse health outcomes is well-documented. However, vaccine uptake remains suboptimal, particularly among minority populations in the USA. We estimated COVID-19 vaccination coverage and investigated factors associated with vaccination status among adults in underserved communities in South Carolina.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among barbershop and salon clients (n = 330) in six counties from August to November 2023. Data were collected on demographics, health status, vaccination history for COVID-19 and the flu, concerns regarding COVID-19, and sources of health information. The likelihood of partial and full vaccination compared to no vaccination was estimated using multinomial logistic regression models.

About 19.4% were fully vaccinated, and 54.5% were partially vaccinated. Not receiving a flu vaccine in the past year and worrying about vaccine safety were associated with reduced likelihood of partial or full vaccination. Increased age and worry about the spread of COVID-19 were associated with an increased likelihood of vaccination. Receiving COVID-19-related information from family/friends or healthcare providers was associated with an increased likelihood of full vaccination but not partial vaccination. Religious affiliation, having no chronic health conditions, and prior COVID-19 infection were associated with a lower likelihood of partial vaccination but not full vaccination.

The findings highlight public health concerns surrounding vaccination, the influence of religion, perceptions of invulnerability, and the role of trusted sources in vaccine decision-making. Public health messaging promoting vaccination should address these concerns and target populations often underserved by conventional healthcare systems.