College
Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine
Keywords
Vaccine Hesitancy, Minority, Underserved, South Jersey
Date of Presentation
5-1-2025 12:00 AM
Poster Abstract
In October 2022, COVID-19 vaccine coverage for two doses in NJ was 77.4%. This exceeded the US national average of 67.8%. However, initial booster uptake remained low at only 50% statewide, and bivalent booster uptake was just 16.8% by March 2023. South Jersey, including Gloucester County and Glassboro, contains large marginalized populations that have experienced barriers to vaccination access, misinformation, and skepticism regarding government and pharmaceutical intentions. This health equity service project was to provide clear, factual, and relatable information to increase vaccine confidence and uptake among minority students at Rowan University and the broader South Jersey community. By addressing safety, effectiveness, and access, this poster aims to empower informed health decisions. We conducted a community-centered content analysis and health education initiative focused on COVID-19 booster hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy among minority students is influenced by a combination of historical mistrust, misinformation, and access gaps. However, confidence can be improved through peer stories, culturally tailored messaging, and trusted local providers. The development of our student-focused infographic offers a model for academic institutions to educate and empower students, while addressing vaccine inequities at the campus and community level.
Disciplines
Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms | Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Health and Medical Administration | Medical Education | Medicine and Health Sciences | Public Health Education and Promotion
Included in
Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms Commons, Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Health and Medical Administration Commons, Medical Education Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons
Vaccine Booster Hesitancy and Factors Associated Amongst Minority Students in South Jersey
In October 2022, COVID-19 vaccine coverage for two doses in NJ was 77.4%. This exceeded the US national average of 67.8%. However, initial booster uptake remained low at only 50% statewide, and bivalent booster uptake was just 16.8% by March 2023. South Jersey, including Gloucester County and Glassboro, contains large marginalized populations that have experienced barriers to vaccination access, misinformation, and skepticism regarding government and pharmaceutical intentions. This health equity service project was to provide clear, factual, and relatable information to increase vaccine confidence and uptake among minority students at Rowan University and the broader South Jersey community. By addressing safety, effectiveness, and access, this poster aims to empower informed health decisions. We conducted a community-centered content analysis and health education initiative focused on COVID-19 booster hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy among minority students is influenced by a combination of historical mistrust, misinformation, and access gaps. However, confidence can be improved through peer stories, culturally tailored messaging, and trusted local providers. The development of our student-focused infographic offers a model for academic institutions to educate and empower students, while addressing vaccine inequities at the campus and community level.
