The influence of sociodemographic factors on COVID-19 vaccine mandate acceptance: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction Vaccine certificates have been implemented worldwide, aiming to promote vaccination rates and to reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, they are not without controversy and have been criticized for infringing upon medical autonomy and individual rights. Methods We administered a national web-based survey exploring public attitudes towards vaccine mandates, vaccine acceptance, and demographic variables. We conducted a multivariate linear regression which revealed key social and demographic factors that were predictive of vaccine certificate acceptance in Canada. Results Self-reported minority status (p<0.001), rurality (p<0.001), political ideology (p<0.001), age (p<0.001), having children under 18 in the household (p<0.001), education (p=0.014), and income status (p=0.034) were significant predictors of attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines and mandates. We found that the most common reasons for COVID-19 vaccination included personal health and safety, protecting others, and travel/work requirements. In contrast, the most common reasons for refusing COVID19 vaccination include perceived violations of personal freedoms, health and safety concerns, and a lack of perceived threat of COVID-19. Conclusion The present findings are valuable for their ability to inform the implementation of vaccine certificate which may require targeted communication between public health agencies and under-vaccinated populations.