Does the COVID-19 Vaccination Rate Change According to the Education and Income: A Study on Vaccination Rates in Cities of Turkey between 2021-September and 2022-February

Abstract

Background: The increase in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination rates in Turkey and in the world plays a key role in reducing the number of deaths and cases from COVID-19. Investigating the underlying causes of COVID-19 vaccine hesitations seems to be a guide in reducing the negative effects of the pandemic. Methods: We analyzed the correlations between double COVID-19 vaccination rates of all cities in Turkey between 1 September 2021 and 1 February 2022 and their per capita income values and their education level percentages. Results: Overall, there was a negative correlation between the vaccination rates of cities and the percentages of illiterate, literate without a diploma, and secondary school graduates for both genders. However, there was a positive correlation between city vaccination rates and the percentages of primary school and college graduates. City income values per capita values were positively correlated with double vaccination rates of cities. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that not only low levels of education, but also interruption of education at some point make a significant contribution to vaccination hesitancy and ultimately to vaccination levels. In order to end the pandemic and reach a sufficient percentage of vaccines, it may be necessary to address some special groups and raise awareness of these groups about vaccination.