Updated – How many Floridians want vaccines
Bottom Line: There’s a lot of inconsistency in our society when you think about it. For example, four years ago Republicans held complete control of the federal government, today Democrats do. A year ago, the extent of our concern regarding the pandemic was the impact to our stock portfolios and whether it was a good idea to still take a cruise. And two months ago, only 68% of Floridians wanted a COVID vaccine. That was largely in line with the country as a whole. As a natural analyst, it’s rare I operate on assumptions but the percentage of people desirous of receiving a COVID vaccine is one of them. I figured the percentage of Floridians desirous of receiving the vaccine would increase provided the vaccines proved safe and effective. Two months later that’s largely been the case and my assumption wasn’t incorrect, there are more people desirous of receiving a vaccine than before, as now, 70% intend to be vaccinated – though I’m a bit surprised the number isn’t higher. For only 2% more people to be convinced two months later, we might have an indication of the view of the possible when it comes to reach.
While only around 45% of adults accept an annual flu vaccine, that’s clearly not the ceiling for those willing to be vaccinated. For example, I don’t take a seasonal flu vaccine, but I fully intend to take a COVID vaccine when able. I apparently fall into the middle 25% who don’t usually get a flu shot but will for COVID-19. The question is whether there’s anything which would convince the remaining 30%? We’ve discussed the impact of cultural differences with a majority of minorities currently unwilling to accept vaccines. If there’s to be a meaningful change in those willing to accept vaccines – it’s largely within minority communities where that will occur. For now, based on 70% who want a vaccine – here's how far into the vaccination process we are in Florida:
- Estimated total of Floridians who want a vaccine: 15.26 million
- Total vaccinated with at least a first dose: 2.75 million
Florida’s vaccinated 18% of the population currently wanting a vaccine.