University of Houston study shows why communities of color are less likely to receive the COVID-19 vaccine

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – A University of Houston study found that a third of Texans are likely to refuse a COVID-19 vaccine, and that the reluctance is especially true among communities of color.

The study comes as data from the CDC recently revealed that, of those vaccinated in the first month, only 11% were Hispanic, five percent were black and six percent were Asian.

The results of this statewide survey by the UH’s Hobby School of Public Affairs provide information on who is most likely to refuse the vaccine.

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While 56% of Texans preferred to get the vaccine, here is a list of those who are not getting the vaccine.

• Will not be immunized: 22%

• Probably will not be immunized: 10%

Racial discrimination of respondents:

• African Americans: 15% undecided

Here is an analysis of the reasons behind not receiving the vaccine:

• Concerned about side effects: 66%

• Believe that the risks of COVID-19 are exaggerated: 44%

Health experts estimate that between 70% and 90% of the population needs to be vaccinated to obtain herd immunity, so this study shows that much needs to be done to gain public confidence.

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