COVID-19 booster vaccine attitudes and behaviors among university students and staff: the USC Trojan Pandemic Research Initiative

IntroductionAlthough COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce morbidity and mortality, recent evidence suggests that immunity wanes after 6-9 months, and that a third vaccine dose could further reduce COVID-19 transmission and severe illness. However, previous studies have not assessed attitudes about getting booster doses. This study examined COVID-19 booster vaccine attitudes and behaviors among university students and staff in the fall of 2021. MethodsParticipants responded to an email invitation and completed electronic surveys. Results. In our sample, 96.2% of respondents indicated willingness to get a COVID-19 booster shot at least once per year. In both bivariate and multivariate analyses higher trust in science was associated with having higher odds of booster willingness. Those who identify as Black, on average, reported trusting science less than other racial/ethnic groups. ConclusionsOur findings demonstrate high willingness to receive a COVID-19 booster shot and highlight the importance of educational and motivational messages that focus on trust in science to increase willingness to get the COVID-19 booster. More research is needed to better understand the impact of cultural beliefs on booster willingness and vaccine hesitancy. This understanding will help determine what messages and populations to target to increase booster willingness in the future.

Characteristics associated with COVID-19 vaccination status among staff and faculty of a large, diverse University in Los Angeles.

ObjectiveThis study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample of university staff and faculty prior to university campus reopening for in-person learning in spring-summer 2021. MethodsStaff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an online survey. Survey questions included demographic data (race/ethnicity, age, sex), COVID-19 knowledge and behaviors, employment specific data including division and subdivision (healthcare vs. non-healthcare related division); and self-reported vaccination status. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine significant characteristics associated with the likelihood of being unvaccinated for COVID-19. ResultsParticipants identifying as Asian and Asian American, Hispanic/Latinx or Multicultural/Other had greater odds of being unvaccinated compared to Non-Hispanic White participants. Other characteristics associated with greater likelihood of being unvaccinated included working as university staff member (vs. faculty), older age, decrease in income, inability to work remotely and not traveling outside of Los Angeles area. Political affiliation as an Independent or as something else were more likely to be unvaccinated compared to participants identifying as Democrat. ConclusionsFindings suggest several factors associated with racial and social disparities may delay the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination. This study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions to promote vaccination among university staff and faculty.