Acceptability of a Prospective Chlamydia Vaccine in Sexually Active Young Adults: A Descriptive Survey

Chlamydia infection rates are high among young adults (YA, ages 18-24). Fortunately, vaccines are being developed to target this pathogen, but chlamydia vaccine acceptability has remained largely unaddressed. The purpose of this descriptive study was to assess the acceptability of a prospective chlamydia vaccine and perceived barriers to receiving such a vaccine among YA.

Sexually active YAs in the United States were recruited for an online survey in May 2022. Participants were asked to indicate their likelihood of being vaccinated for chlamydia, receiving the vaccine if recommended by a doctor, researching the vaccine, and asking their provider about the vaccine (5-point Likert scale). Barriers were listed and participants indicated if each barrier would discourage them. Demographic information was collected, and descriptive analyses were conducted in SAS.

Approximately 49% of participants were likely to get a chlamydia vaccine (184/379); this increased to 56% if the vaccine was recommended by a physician (211/379). Only 14% were likely to ask their provider about a chlamydia vaccine (42/295) and 16% were likely to seek additional information about the vaccine (50/320). Barriers with a strong influence included vaccine effectiveness (72%, 273/379), cost (68%, 256/379), and for contracting chlamydia because of the vaccine (66%, 251/379).

Nearly half of YA are accepting of a chlamydia vaccine, with physician influence likely to increase acceptance. Before implementation, studies should identify effective strategies to educate physicians about their role in vaccine uptake and inform the general population on the safety and effectiveness of the chlamydia vaccine.