Interventions to Improve COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy

Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 2025 Feb;51(1):61-73. doi: 10.1016/j.rdc.2024.09.007. Epub 2024 Oct 11.

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine uptake among individuals with rheumatic conditions remains low despite heightened risk for related adverse outcomes. This is especially pronounced among historically marginalized populations who suffered disproportionately from the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the myriad of reasons for low vaccine uptake, mistrust in the healthcare system, misinformation related to the vaccine development process, fear of rheumatic disease flares, and inconsistent physician recommendations, are highlighted. Two randomized controlled trials are underway leveraging multimodal strategies and community partnerships to disseminate COVID-19 vaccine information, reduce hesitancy and hopefully improve vaccine uptake, particularly in marginalized communities.

Keywords: Coronavirus disease 2019 infection; Coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination; Health disparities; Preventive care; Vaccine hesitancy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Vaccines*
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Rheumatic Diseases
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vaccination Hesitancy* / psychology

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines