Doctors Caution: Mixed Messages On COVID Vaccines May Drag Down Already Low Immunization Rates Even More

Over three-quarters of American adults forwent a COVID vaccination last season, a trend that health experts suggest might worsen this year with new government guidelines. Initially, the COVID vaccine gained traction, with approximately 75% of Americans having received at least one dose by early 2022, according to the CDC. However, only about 23% vaccinated during the 2024-25 season, significantly lower than the 47% who obtained a flu shot. Despite this, COVID remains a critical health threat, responsible for approximately 31,400 deaths last year, in stark contrast to the 6,500 attributed to influenza.Current vaccination hesitance is pronounced among African Americans, Latinos, and young adults, often rooted in fears regarding side effects and distrust of health authorities. Furthermore, policy changes under different administrations have compounded access issues. Experts emphasize the necessity of vaccination as both COVID and flu vaccines effectively mitigate severe illness.