Views on Covid-19 vaccinations - February 2021

Healthwatch Cheshire West and Cheshire East undertook a survey into attitudes to and experiences of the Covid-19 vaccination.  They had 72 responses.

A large number of panel members had either received a Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination or knew a close friend or family member who had. All respondents who had received a vaccine commented on how well organised and efficient the process was, especially in relation to the helpful and considerate nature of staff at a number of vaccination sites. Some people felt a slight pain or discomfort in their arm post-vaccine, but all said this feeling receded in a short amount of time with rest or mild off-the-shelf pain relief.

The vast majority of respondents who had not received a vaccine intended to get theirs as soon as it became available. A few members said they were vaccine-hesitant, mostly citing concerns around how the vaccine will affect long term conditions.

Most felt they had received enough information to make an informed decision about receiving a vaccine.  They felt that communication could be improved, particularly with regard to the logistical arrangements and what to expect when receiving a vaccine.

In most cases, respondents felt prepared to receive the vaccine, with the right information to hand, or would recommend the vaccine to family and friends.