Combating COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: Behaviorally Informed Campaigns in the Caribbean

This note provides insights into understanding and combating vaccine hesitancy in the Caribbean. We draw on both qualitative and quantitative evidence stemming from IDB analytical and operational work. First, a household survey implemented in Belize in 2021 finds that lack of trust in vaccines and fear of side effects are among the main reasons given by the people that had not yet received the COVID-19 vaccine. Second, we evaluate the correlation between five behaviorally informed campaigns and vaccine uptake and digital engagement (clicks, emojis) and the effect of randomizing the framing of messages within one of such campaigns. We find that messages about COVID-19 vaccine safety and positive framing of side effects were associated with better outcomes. Finally, we describe how these insights are used in vaccination campaigns in Barbados.