Examining the Effectiveness of Japanese Local and National Government Information Sources on COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake

The effectiveness of different levels of government in generating compliance with public health initiatives during pandemics is not currently known. As public health is administered at both local and national levels, this study aimed to determine which government level is most effective in motivating the public so that resources can be efficiently allocated.

The usage rates and subsequent vaccine uptake of the Japanese national government's main COVID-19 vaccination website, "Vaccine Navi," were compared to Japanese local governments' websites and mailed paper flyers. Data were collected through an online survey of 1088 participants matched to national demographic data asking about their experience with Vaccine Navi and local resources in receiving information about the COVID-19 vaccine. T-tests and ordinary least squares regression modeling were used for statistical analysis.

The information resources created by local Japanese governments to aid in vaccine rollout were used significantly more than the national government's Vaccine Navi. There was no statistically significant difference in the number of vaccines received after a local and national information source was used.

Local health resources are beneficial to distributing information during health crises, and utilizing local public health offices is advantageous for public health guidance during pandemics.