Amplifying Youth Voices: Recommendations for Enhancing Vaccine Uptake and Acceptability in Policy and Practice

Oluwaseyi Somefun, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Marisa Casala, University of Western Cape

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of vaccine availability and uptake, yet rising vaccine hesitancy presents a significant challenge, particularly among youth. Despite proven efficacy, hesitancy persists due to negative healthcare experiences, distrust, and misinformation. Engaging youth is crucial in addressing this challenge. Drawing from qualitative data in Nigeria, South Africa, and Zambia, this paper explores youth recommendations to enhance COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, aiming to inform global strategies to combat hesitancy and improve public health outcomes. Using the Accelerate Framework for Youth Acceptability, this study utilized convenience sampling to engage 165 individuals aged 15-24 across South Africa, Zambia, and Nigeria. we conducted 12 face-to-face focus groups and 38 in-depth remote interviews. We conducted thematic analysis collaboratively, using both deductive and inductive approaches. Findings revealed that personalized communication, in-person expert engagement, and localized dissemination through influencers, community leaders, and trusted networks are crucial components in fostering vaccine acceptance.