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WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Vaccine Hesitancy and Booster Dose Acceptance among Young Adults in Pakistan during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic

presenters

    Asma Omar

    Nationality: Pakistan

    Residence: Pakistani

    Fatima Jinnah Women University

    Presence:Face to Face/ On Site

Keywords:

Vaccine hesitancy, booster dose, infodemic, distrust, anthropological perspective

Abstract:

The corona virus disease COVID-19 pandemic provoked an unmatched global public health crisis, necessitating quick vaccine development and deployment. This qualitative study explores the attitudes and beliefs regarding vaccine hesitancy and booster dose acceptance among young adults in Pakistan, aged 18-22, through an anthropological lens. Utilizing in-depth interviews with a convenient sample of 20 participants, this research draws on anthropological framework influencing vaccination decisions within this demographic. Findings reveal a complex interaction of infodemic, religious beliefs, and different forms of distrust as significant drivers of vaccine hesitancy. Moreover, the study emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive public health strategies and transparent communication to address vaccine hesitancy and enhance booster dose uptake. These insights will contribute to the broader discussion on pandemic response in low and middle-income countries, highlighting the critical role of local contexts in shaping public health outcomes through an anthropological perspective.