HONOLULU (Eagle News) – An overwhelming majority or at least 90% of respondents in Hawaii want to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the latest report commissioned by the state’s Department of Health (DOH) and released on Wednesday, February 10.
The study, conducted in partnership with marketing and communications firm Anthology Research, shows a stark contrast to a similar survey by the University of Hawaii late last year, in which only about 50% of residents said they would accept the vaccine.
“This is a positive change in a relatively short time,” said DOH chair Dr. Elizabeth Char. “As we anticipated, those who were initially hesitant about getting the vaccine are now much more comfortable as they see family, friends, co-workers and others safely receiving their first and second doses.”
A total of 445 surveys were conducted between December 30, 2020 and January 11, 2021. Each respondent was screened to ensure they were at least 18 years old and a full-time resident of Hawaii.
The findings also show there are segments of Hawaii’s population who are still less likely to get vaccinated as soon as they become eligible. They include young adults, females, those without a college degree, and the less affluent. 42% who live with a minor indicate that they will not let their child get vaccinated.
As of this report, over 219,000 vaccinations (out of more than 288,000 delivered so far to Hawaii) have already been administered to frontline and essential workers, as well as to kupuna (elderly citizens) aged 75 years and older.
(Eagle News Service)