COVID-19 and Vaccine Hesitancy A Challenge the United States Must Overcome

A significant portion of the U.S. population may experience vaccine hesitancy of a new COVID-19 vaccine, which poses dangers to both the individual and their community, since exposure to a contagious disease places the person at risk, and individuals are far more likely to spread the disease to others if they do not get vaccinated. Many individuals are doubtful, and without the healthcare community, speaking with one voice has led to distrust. Experience from the influenza vaccines have shown vaccine acceptance has not been optimal, and this new vaccine, even though it is not approved, is already showing layperson skepticism compounded by political influences.

Automated summary

A significant portion of the U.S. population may have vaccine hesitancy towards a new COVID-19 vaccine, posing risks to both individuals and communities. Lack of unified voice in the healthcare community has led to distrust. Previous experiences with influenza vaccines show suboptimal acceptance, and skepticism towards the new vaccine is exacerbated by political influences.