Example quotations of hesitancy related to the perception that vaccines are not worth the risk
| Subtheme | Quotations |
| Vaccines are riskier than the virus |
“I have heard the COVID virus isn’t too bad and I have multiple friends that have had it. So, I guess you can say I’m more worried about the vaccine than the virus itself.”
“I have already had the virus and had minimal symptoms. So I guess I could say getting the vaccine is more frightening.” “Both are scary, but getting the vaccine is more frightening for me because I feel that if I got COVID I would be fine and it wouldn’t affect me much.” “At this point, me getting the COVID vaccine is more frightening [than getting COVID). I stay by myself; I only go out if need be and I am masked up.” |
| Vaccines are not necessary | “I’m not frightened at all because I take great precautions. I’m more concerned about someone passing it on to me.” |
| Vaccines are only for the most vulnerable |
“For me personally, I don’t feel like it’s necessary as I am a healthy individual with no underlying health issues, and so is my husband and child.”
“I think that the vaccine is important for those who are most vulnerable. If they get sick, at least it won’t be as serious.” |