New development: Increasing vaccination uptake in repeated Covid 19 vaccination mandates

ABSTRACT

IMPACTSome countries are still struggling to vaccinate residents against Covid 19 despite the wide availability of vaccines. This situation becomes more complex when considering the possible need for regular booster shots. Repeated vaccine mandates that impose fines on vaccine refusers may increase vaccination uptake. However, the uptake may not be sufficient to lift all Covid 19 restrictions. This article recommends that policy-makers consider an alternative financial incentive system that relies on rewards in addition to fines. Theoretical and empirical evidence suggests that a combination can yield a stronger response than using rewards or fines alone.