University of Houston study shows smaller communities are less likely to get the COVID-19 vaccine

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – A University of Houston study found that a third of Texans are likely to refuse a COVID-19 vaccine, and that reluctance is especially true among color communities.

The study came when CDC data recently revealed that of those vaccinated in the first month, only 11% were Spanish, five percent black and six percent Asian.

The findings of this nationwide survey by UH’s Hobby School of Public Affairs provide insight into who is likely to reject the vaccine.

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While 56% of Texans leaned to get the chance, here’s an outline of who does not get the vaccine.

• Will not be vaccinated: 22%

• Will probably not be vaccinated: 10%

A racial breakdown of the respondents:

• African Americans: 15% undecided

Here is an explanation of the reasons for not getting the vaccine:

• Worried about side effects: 66%

• Believe COVID-19 risks are exaggerated: 44%

Health experts estimate that between 70% and 90% of the population needs to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity, so this study shows that a lot needs to be done to win the public’s trust.

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