Misinformation about the COVID-19 Vaccine on Social Media
Vaccine hesitancy is not a new phenomenon. However, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we are seeing an updated and even more deadly strain of vaccine hesitancy – the one against the COVID-19 virus. Of particular interest are those in the healthcare industry–specifically healthcare providers–who present strong hesitancy towards the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to even begin addressing problems of anti-vaxxers/ vaccine hesitant, the first step includes understanding the reasons for such hesitancy. Alongside the rise in anti-vaccine sentiment we are faced with the problem of dealing with this all in the age of technology and social media. Platforms allow the rise of echo-chambers and exponentially expand any one person's reach around the world through social media platforms. However, we can also use these platforms to gauge an understanding of the reasoning behind those who express vaccine hesitancy. In this project we used directed content analysis in order to code for an expansive data set of tweets particularly on the topic of the COVID-19 vaccine and those specifically by medical professionals. An understanding of these reasons will allow us to take steps towards increasing vaccine acceptance and towards ending the pandemic.
Comments
What might their reasons be?
I can see why a lay person might have doubts about getting the COVID-19 vaccine, despite the reasons why they should. What I don't really understand is why a healthcare professional would hesitate to receive it. These professionals work with sick, and often immunocompromised individuals, shouldn't it be their duty to protect them? This is definitely a large debate where reasons could be provided for both sides and I think to get everyone vaccinated we do have to figure out first why they have doubts. Using Twitter was also a great idea because it has all sorts of users and many people do get their news from there!
Hi Vereta! Your project is…
Hi Vereta! Your project is extremely relevant and has various real-world implications. I wonder if social media platforms that have religious connotations and goals play a role in creating political cleavages that cause vaccine hesitancies? As well as what are the effects of individuals with large followings on social media platforms like Twitter have in influencing people's opinions, particularly those that are not explicitly advocating for people to get vaccines?
Vereta, I found your project…
Vereta, I found your project very interesting. It's upsetting to think about how there are people who work in the healthcare industry that are anti-vaccinations. As this research continues I hope it can delve deeper into how to prevent and counter these kinds of sentiments.