SWS: 35% of Filipinos unsure about COVID-19 vaccine

A recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed that 35% of Filipinos are unsure about receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, a higher percentage than those willing to get vaccinated (32%) or those who refuse it (33%).

The survey, conducted from April 28 to May 2, 2021, explored Filipinos' willingness to get a free, FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine.

Among those unsure about vaccination, the primary concern cited by 39% of respondents is fear of potential side effects.

An additional 21% of undecided individuals expressed concerns about the vaccine's safety and effectiveness.

Other significant reasons for vaccine hesitancy include worries about fatality (11%), general fear or distrust of vaccines (11%), and having pre-existing health conditions or being elderly (11%).

A smaller percentage of hesitant individuals mentioned negative feedback about vaccines (6%), fear of getting sick with COVID-19 (3%), or feeling healthy and not needing a vaccine (2%).