As winter approaches, Covid and flu cases typically surge, making it essential for people to take precautions. However, vaccination rates in the US are concerning. By mid-December, only 20.9% of adults had received their Covid vaccine, while 41.7% have had the flu shot. These figures are lower than previous seasons, with 73% of adults receiving at least one Covid dose and 63.7% getting a flu shot before the pandemic.
A major reason for low vaccination rates is not political or medical skepticism, but rather fear of needles. One in four adults have a phobia of needles, and this fear can lead to low uptake. Researchers are exploring needle-free vaccines, such as nasal sprays, which could increase accessibility and effectiveness. Addressing this fear may help boost vaccination rates during the critical winter season.
Source: https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/392145/nasal-vaccines-covid-flu-needles-public-health