Fertility concerns and COVID-19 Vaccines: Community-informed infographic design in urban Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Introduction: Vaccine hesitancy, including concerns about possible fertility side-effects, caused delay in the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines in Canada and elsewhere. One way of tackling vaccine hesitancy is the use of infographics that explain key issues and address concerns. The aim of this study was to explore the collaborative process of rapidly developing an infographic that was informed by community feedback and tailored to address fertility concerns during urgent COVID-19 pandemic conditions.
Methods: A survey promoted through social media and focus group discussion with community contacts were used to iteratively consult target audiences and gather feedback on interpretation of the infographic’s content and meaning. Survey results were analysed using descriptive methods. A focus group discussion was analysed using inductive thematic and sentiment analysis. Feedback guided infographic development.
Results: A draft infographic and survey were shared online. 33 of 37 survey respondents expressed that they trusted the information provided in infographics. Survey respondents and focus group participants both wanted simple language and additional information to address concerns about the long-term effect of COVID-19 vaccines on fertility. Opinions indicated that more effort was needed to address varying levels of health literacy within communities. There was conflicting feedback on whether use of inclusive language by removing gender labels and focusing on biology, was helpful or confusing.
Conclusions: This study shows public feedback can help tailor content and design of vaccine confidence building tools making them more accessible to the general population. In addition, efforts to resolve specific concerns can be augmented by modifying and/or creating different versions of infographics.
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