Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Overall Vaccination Rates and Way to Improve Public Education
by Erika R. Buchel, B.S, 2022 PharmD Candidate, Magdelene A. Kissel, B.S, 2022 PharmD Candidate, Kayla I Pearsall, 2022 PharmD Candidate
"Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, overall vaccination rates in Wisconsin have drastically declined. High vaccination rates are essential for maintaining herd immunity for preventable diseases. The decline in vaccination rates might be partially attributed to the state’s "Safer At Home" order, which required people to stay home except for essential functions. This order, and new discussions about the COVID-19 vaccine itself, might have changed some public perception of vaccinations. Common misconceptions about vaccinations in general are also a reason for declining rates. Some people believe that vaccinations cause autism, or that the ingredients of vaccinations are harmful to people. Some people also have religious, ethical, or political beliefs that might prevent them from obtaining vaccinations. Due to decreasing vaccinations rates, it is essential that healthcare professionals take the initiative to improve these rates. This can be done via education, both professionally in the healthcare facilities where they work, and personally in the communities where they live. Motivational interviewing and social media are also essential tools for raising awareness of the importance of vaccinations. In order to accomplish these goals, it is essential that pharmacists and all healthcare professionals work together to increase vaccination rates to promote building a healthier future for all, as outlined by Healthy People 2030 goals."
Keywords: COVID-19 Vaccines, Pharmacists, Immunity, Herd, Motivational Interviewing, Social Media, Wisconsin, COVID-19, Goals, Vaccines, Vaccination, Health Personnel, Educational Status, Delivery of Health Care, Perception
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2021 May/June Table of Contents
"Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, overall vaccination rates in Wisconsin have drastically declined. High vaccination rates are essential for maintaining herd immunity for preventable diseases. The decline in vaccination rates might be partially attributed to the state’s "Safer At Home" order, which required people to stay home except for essential functions. This order, and new discussions about the COVID-19 vaccine itself, might have changed some public perception of vaccinations. Common misconceptions about vaccinations in general are also a reason for declining rates. Some people believe that vaccinations cause autism, or that the ingredients of vaccinations are harmful to people. Some people also have religious, ethical, or political beliefs that might prevent them from obtaining vaccinations. Due to decreasing vaccinations rates, it is essential that healthcare professionals take the initiative to improve these rates. This can be done via education, both professionally in the healthcare facilities where they work, and personally in the communities where they live. Motivational interviewing and social media are also essential tools for raising awareness of the importance of vaccinations. In order to accomplish these goals, it is essential that pharmacists and all healthcare professionals work together to increase vaccination rates to promote building a healthier future for all, as outlined by Healthy People 2030 goals."
Keywords: COVID-19 Vaccines, Pharmacists, Immunity, Herd, Motivational Interviewing, Social Media, Wisconsin, COVID-19, Goals, Vaccines, Vaccination, Health Personnel, Educational Status, Delivery of Health Care, Perception
Download PDF
2021 May/June Table of Contents