Policy Issue

Policy Watch: Vaccine Hesitancy Remains a Concern

August 10, 2021

With the Covid-19 Delta variant of adding to case rates and hospitalizations across the country, medical and public health experts are reminding the public that getting vaccinated is the best way to protect oneself and loved ones from COVID-19. Yet, some eligible groups remain unvaccinated.

For some, it may be an issue of access, while for others, it may be an issue of personal choice. The Kaiser Family Foundation conducts regular research nationally to understand public perception about the vaccine, and publishes their findings in the Vaccine Monitor Dashboard.

Their latest report, published in early August, finds that the percent of adults who have already been vaccinated or imminently intend to be vaccinated has not changed since June. Of those who are not vaccinated, about half say that they will definitely not get the vaccine. A small group indicated that they would get vaccinated if it were required, and the remainder of unvaccinated people said they wanted to "wait and see" how the vaccines affect others. About half of those who wish to "wait and see" believe that getting infected with the coronavirus is a bigger risk to their health than getting vaccinated, compared to one quarter of those who will "definitely not" get the vaccine.

As of July 30th, the CDC reports that 63.9% of the total population in Massachusetts is fully vaccinated, ranking us second nationally. The nationwide percent of fully vaccinated hovered around 50% vaccinated as of early August. According to data published by DPH on August 5, MetroWest has slightly better uptake than the state average, with 70.2% of the region's population being fully vaccinated.

To find vaccination locations in Massachusetts, or to schedule a home visit or take advantage of mobile programs, click here.

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