As COVID-19 vaccines began being administered across Canada today (Dec. 14), a new poll reveals more Canadians are willing to roll up their sleeves.
The transition of vaccine conversation from abstract concept to tangible reality has had an impact, pollster Angus Reid Institute found.
The results indicate a notable increase in the number of Canadians who say they are willing to be immunized against COVID-19 as soon as a vaccine is available to them. Just one month ago, 40 per cent said they were keen to be vaccinated ASAP as opposed to wanting to wait a while. Now, 48 per cent want an immediate jab, a boost of eight per cent.
Seniors are most eager to be immunized (61 per cent).
Meanwhile, the number of those who say they will not get a vaccine has remained static at roughly one-in-seven.
Fifty-eight per cent expressed confidence in the federal government's ability to effectively manage distribution nationally.
There was near unanimous agreement that older and more at-risk people should get the vaccine first. Fewer than one-in-10 say it should be “first come, first served.”
Among those who say they would wait to be vaccinated or not get a vaccine at all, the majority (70 per cent) express concerns over the potential for long-term side effects.
Asked whether vaccination should be mandatory in certain scenarios, a majority say it should be for health-care workers and those in extended care homes.
(via Angus Reid Institute)
