%0 Journal Article
%T Demographic Differences in Compliance with COVID-19 Vaccination Timing and Completion Guidelines in the United States.
%A Zhu P
%A Zhang V
%A Wagner AL
%J Vaccines (Basel)
%V 11
%N 2
%D Feb 2023 6
%M 36851247
%F 4.961
%R 10.3390/vaccines11020369
%X <B>BACKGROUND: </B>The development of vaccines has been a significant factor in eliminating the pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). However, the primary series vaccination rate still falls short of our expectations, with an even lower rate of uptake for booster shots. This study examined demographic patterns of COVID-19 vaccination compliance by assessing patterns in the timing of the vaccine series start and vaccination completion and characterizing people by compliance with vaccination recommendations.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>A cross-sectional survey was conducted online in August 2022. Participants answered questions about the COVID-19 vaccine and questions related to their personal backgrounds. We assessed the impact of demographic factors on COVID-19 vaccination using multivariable regression modeling.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Among 700 eligible participants, 61% (389) were highly adherent (i.e., started by late 2020 and received a booster dose), 22% (184) were moderately adherent (i.e., started later than June 2021, and/or did not receive the booster dose), and 17% (127) were unvaccinated. Compliance was relatively low among non-Hispanic Black Americans, those with no religious affiliation, and among Independents and Republicans.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Vaccination compliance varies across demographic groups. Race/ethnicity, religion, and political affiliation are highly associated with vaccination compliance. To promote vaccination compliance and decrease vaccine hesitancy, the government and healthcare institutions should establish a positive image to obtain public trust and adopt effective vaccine education and intervention.