Paper Details

COVID- 19 has been one of the worst nightmares for mankind. During these difficult times, vaccines have come up as a blessing for the world. While the short process of production and testing has given rise to several doubts, the effectiveness and belief in science prevail. With two conflicting schools of thought, vaccine hesitancy has been an underlying emotion. With a population of 1.2 billion, India has been able to inoculate 390 million people. The main hindrance the ruling government is facing is the hesitancy of its people amidst the rumours to get vaccinated. This study was conducted to understand the public opinion, people’s mindset and the reason behind the COVID vaccine hesitancy. For the present study, 200 respondents from main states like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra and various education backgrounds were asked to fill up an online survey form. The final results gave an insight on various rumours like vaccine leads to loss of fertility, it is being a placebo associated with the vaccination process etc which indeed reflect the perception of a common man towards vaccines. Along with this, the results indicate an analysis of the side effects suffered due to vaccination. Around 38% suffered headaches and 44% felt fatigued after vaccination. The study explains the lack of awareness and proper information that needs to reach everyone. Keeping in mind the vast differences in the social and cultural demography of the country, these results cannot be generalized but can be used as a guide for the development of similar studies and for taking proactive actions.

COVID, Vaccine Hesitancy, social media, Side Effects, Rumors