Young adults' attitudes to the COVID-19 vaccine in Liverpool

Following the COVID-19 vaccination programme being opened to under 25s, Healthwatch Liverpool carried out a survey and ran focus groups with young-adults aged 16-25 years old to gain an insight into the thoughts and opinions of this group around vaccination.

They found that:

• A high percentage of young adults who participated were very positive about the COVID-19 vaccine.
• However, some raised concerns about its side-effects. Concerns surrounding the perceived long-term effects on fertility were specifically mentioned several times by those identifying as female.
• Concerns mentioned by those identifying as male related to the necessity of the vaccine for fit, healthy and young people.
• The main incentive for the young adults to take up the vaccine, was so that they could return to normal life and be able to meet family and friends whilst keeping them protected.
• Most people said that the distance needed to travel, or the brand of vaccine would not affect their decision to take up the vaccine. However, some expressed concern about not having access to transport or not wanting to use public transport due to concerns about catching COVID-19. Some were also concerned about the Astra Zeneca vaccine and the risk of blood clots.
• The main reasons for vaccine hesitancy was concerns about its side effects on fertility and the speed of its developments.
• Most respondents said that their views of the COVID-19 vaccine were influenced by their families, with health and social care staff being the second most popular influence.
• Those over the age of 22 were more hesitant to take up the vaccine than younger age groups, who were more likely to say yes.
• The respondents in this survey said that, if given the option, they would prefer to have their vaccination done within a healthcare or education setting.

Healthwatch Liverpool have made seven recommendations to improve the uptake of COVID-19 vaccine in younger age groups.