New findings from the first survey of Londoners on COVID-19 vaccine opinions show that a quarter are unlikely to or definitely won’t get a COVID-19 vaccine, in research published today by the London Assembly Health Committee.
Out of the 700 Londoners polled online between 19 October and 2 November, almost half of those who would not or might not get a vaccine (47.5%) said that they either did not trust government guidance or did not trust drug companies. Around three in five people (66%) who responded to the survey said they are likely or definitely will get vaccinated.
The research also shows more than half of Londoners do not think or are unsure if the NHS can successfully roll-out a new COVID-19 vaccine when one is ready.
The survey also found:
- The 45-54 age group had the most respondents say they were not likely to have the vaccine.
- Over half of those who would not get a vaccine get their news from YouTube.
- Around 7 out of 10 of those who would get a vaccine get their news from national and local news channels, including radio, online and television.
- There are fewer people in the east of London compared to the rest of the city who say they would definitely or be likely to get the vaccine.
According to the World Health Organisation, rates of vaccination uptake to create herd immunity vary between diseases. It requires up to 19 out of 20 people to be vaccinated against measles and for polio four in five. However, these survey findings show that, if vaccine uptake rates need to be as high for COVID-19, Londoners and London could fall short in creating the necessary herd immunity.
The findings demonstrate that London’s NHS must showcase how it is preparing for the vaccine and how it will handle vaccinations. This comes amidst announcements from the government that it is preparing for fast-approaching approvals of a new vaccine.
Dr Onkar Sahota, Chair of the Health Committee, said: “Confidence in vaccines has always been of huge importance – and it will play a vital part in combatting COVID-19…
“We know that Londoners want to get back to their families, friends, education and workplaces safely, but we need to be vaccinated to do that…”
