Adults with previous COVID-19 diagnosis less likely to get the vaccination

In a study analyzing COVID-19 vaccination coverage among adults, a team of Tufts University researchers found that those that had previously been diagnosed were less likely to have received the vaccine and were more reluctant to do so in the future.

The study was led by Kimberly Nguyen, assistant professor in the Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, and co-authored by professors, Laura Corlin and Jennifer Allen, and students, Jing Huang and Kathrine Mansfield.

“This study was important to me because earlier studies have shown lagging COVID-19 vaccination rates and increases in COVID-19 cases during the summer of 2021, with many people saying that they did not believe they needed the vaccine,” said Nguyen. “I was interested in seeing vaccination rates among people who had COVID-19 and their reasons for not vaccinating in comparison to those who did not have COVID-19 to see if there are any differences. This would help local, state, and national efforts to focus messaging and strategies to increase vaccination coverage.”

To help reduce the overall burden of COVID-19 and increase vaccination rates, these findings suggest that authorities should increase educational and confidence-building interventions on adults. Physicians and health professionals should emphasize the value of being vaccinated, regardless of previous COVID-19 diagnosis.

“Vaccination programs can build confidence in COVID-19 vaccines by sharing clear messages about the COVID-19 vaccine and addressing misinformation, empowering healthcare personnel to recommend vaccines, and building trust with individuals and communities,” said Nguyen.

To read the full study, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.