Work

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

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: 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. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSION: 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.

Source: Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities

DOI: 10.1007/s40615-025-02601-8

Authors: Mufaro Kanyangarara, Sachi Vora, Fatima Seck, Neal Dhankhode, Paddington T. Mundagowa

Institution: University of South Carolina

Language: English

Topic: Vaccine Coverage and Hesitancy

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,190