According to the latest KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor poll, approximately 52% of U.S. adults stated that they will “probably” or “definitely” not get the new COVID-19 vaccine. Conversely, 23% of adults are “definitely” planning to get the vaccine, while another 23% are inclined to “probably” get it.
Interestingly, a significant majority of those expressing a definite or probable intention to get the new vaccine are Democrats and/or individuals aged 65 and older. Seventy percent of Democrats plan to receive the new vaccine, compared to only 24% of Republicans.
The survey, conducted from September 6 to September 13, involved 1,296 U.S. adults through online and telephone polls. KFF, based in San Francisco, is recognized as an independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism.
The findings also reveal a partisan divide in terms of COVID precautions. Among Democrats, 58% are likely to take extra precautions like wearing masks, avoiding travel, and steering clear of public gatherings in light of rising COVID cases. In contrast, only 16% of Republicans expressed a likelihood to do the same.
Regarding vaccinating children, over half of parents stated they will “probably” or “definitely” not do so, despite CDC recommendations for children aged 6 months and older. For other illnesses like measles, mumps, and rubella, a majority of adults (68%) and parents (55%) support mandating vaccines for healthy children.
The survey shows a higher likelihood among respondents to get the flu shot and the new RSV vaccine compared to the new COVID vaccine. Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, emphasized that the decision to get the new vaccine should be fact-driven and based on individual circumstances, given that the vaccine doesn't entirely prevent the spread of the virus.
