- 83% positively supported getting the vaccine
- 17% felt hesitant towards getting the vaccine
- 85% support getting the vaccine to protect themselves
- 88% support getting the vaccine to protect the community
The main reasons given for vaccine hesitancy were:
- concerns about side-effects
- beliefs that they are not at risk from covid-19
- vaccine perceived as not effective
- against vaccines in general
Researchers 4insight and the Government worked on the survey alongside a team of behavioural scientists from Influence At Work, who have already helped the Government on its pandemic communications.
“One of the biggest influences on how we think and act, is how those around us are thinking and acting,” the organisation’s CEO, Steve Martin, said.
“Our survey clearly shows that the majority of islanders will get their vaccine when it is their turn. It also provides clear confirmation of the widely held view that being vaccinated protects not just ourselves, but our friends, family and fellow islanders too.”
Pictured: One of Influence at Work’s previous contributions to the Government’s covid strategy was suggesting which “messengers“ to use to deliver key messages.
Health Minister Deputy Richard Renouf welcomed the survey’s results as “good news”, adding: “The data that has been gathered is informative and helps us with the ongoing roll out of communication regarding vaccinations. I thank everyone who took part in the survey.”
Despite issues with the NHS’s vaccine supply chain, Jersey Vaccination Programme Head Becky Sherrington said last week that, while fewer doses might be delivered throughout April as a result, this would be “unlikely” to impact the island’s vaccination schedule.