Investigating how sociodemographic factors and vaccination attitudes explain awareness, experience, and willingness toward COVID-19 and influenza vaccination among Taiwan residents

Sociodemographic factors and individual attitudes may influence individuals' decisions for vaccination against infectious diseases. The present study aimed to identify how these factors were associated with COVID-19 and influenza vaccination experiences among Taiwanese individuals. Using a cross-sectional design, 914 individuals (female = 58%; aged 50 years or above = 43.1%) completed an online survey between October and November 2024. Chi-squares and odds ratios (ORs) derived from logistic regression were used to examine the associations and perform predictive analysis. Results showed that 54% were undecided (those who answered 'not sure') or reluctant (those who answered 'no') about receiving a COVID-19 booster vaccine, while 65% were willing to get the next influenza vaccine. Factors such as age, employment, and education were significantly associated with awareness and experience for both types of vaccination. Older people had a higher awareness of the vaccination and were more likely to receive the vaccines. Individuals who worked in health-related settings or had an education in a related field, along with those with higher education, showed increased awareness and experience of vaccination. After controlling for sociodemographic factors, attitude (i.e., vaccination readiness and conspiracy belief) predicted vaccination willingness for both vaccines (pseudo-R2 = 0.28-0.33). Moreover, factors such as age, education, occupation, and attitudes (readiness, conspiracy beliefs) may be associated with awareness, experience, and willingness to receive COVID-19 and influenza vaccines among Taiwanese individuals. Developing awareness programs for younger and less educated people, and those who work in non-health-related sectors, may be helpful to encourage individuals to get vaccinated.