Analysis of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among people with underlying chronic conditions in 2022: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has been a global burden and vaccinations have proven to be the most effective measure to fight this pandemic. Since the approval and distribution of the vaccines, approximately 75% of District of Columbia residents have been fully vaccinated leaving a quarter of the population at risk. With the availability and approval of the booster doses to people with high-risk chronic conditions, it is important to understand the attitude of people towards vaccinations. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research study is to analyze the COVID-19 vaccination uptake among people with underlying chronic conditions residing in District of Columbia residents and to determine the reason for the hesitancy to perform targeted outreach to unvaccinated populations. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS: In 2022, we conducted a cross sectional study via a short online survey that was distributed to the target populations via email and social media. Multivariable Regression Analyses were conducted to determine the factors associated with the acceptance of the vaccination across various demographics. RESULTS: The findings of the study demonstrate that the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination was low among people with chronic conditions compared to those with no underlying chronic conditions, and vaccination rates strongly differ based on social determinants like education, employment, and area of residence across District of Columbia. CONCLUSION: The public health significance of this study is to understand the reason behind the vaccine hesitancy so that we can work towards building trust, extending outreach, creating targeted health education, and increasing access to vaccination to all communities across District of Columbia.