Work

Associations between religion, religiosity, and parental vaccine hesitancy

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Religious vaccine exemptions are widely available and increasing despite decreases in American religiosity. We tested associations between religion, religiosity, and caregiver vaccine hesitancy in a sample of caregivers of 2-year-olds. METHODS: We analyzed data from a 2020 survey in three pediatric clinics, estimating distinct multivariable logistic regression models to examine associations. RESULTS: Our sample included 255 predominantly poor, Latino, Christian, and English-speaking caregivers (response rate: 90%); 13% were vaccine hesitant. Caregivers identifying with major faith traditions were not more likely to be hesitant than those without a tradition (adjusted odds ratio 1.46; 95% CI 0.29, 7.26). There were no significant associations between caregiver vaccine hesitancy and three religiosity domains. CONCLUSIONS: We found no associations between parental vaccine hesitancy, religiosity, or adherence to a major faith tradition in a sample of mostly poor, Latino, Christian mothers. Additional work is needed to inform exemption policies and public health and faith leaders.

Source: Vaccine X

DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2021.100121

Authors: Joshua T.B. Williams, John D. Rice, Sean T. O'Leary

Institutions: Denver Health Medical Center, University of Colorado Anschutz, University of Colorado Denver, Colorado School of Public Health

Language: English

Topic: Vaccine Coverage and Hesitancy

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,800