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Table 4 Participants’ barriers associated with acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination n = 3838

From: Willingness, beliefs, and barriers regarding the COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia: a multiregional cross-sectional study

Barriers

Vaccine refusers

n = 3838 (47.6%)

Count (%)

I am concerned about the vaccine’s side effects

2304

(60.03%)

I don’t believe that the vaccine will stop the infection

939

(24.47%)

I don’t need the vaccine because I do all the right things: I wash my hands and wear a mask and gloves

1069

(27.85%)

I don’t like needles

238

(6.20%)

The COVID-19 vaccine is a conspiracy

590

(15.37%)

I don’t need the vaccine because I’m young and healthy

350

(9.12%)

I believe in natural or traditional remedies

253

(6.59%)

I think COVID-19 vaccine may not be safe

1549

(40.36%)

The best way for protection is to develop immunity following COVID-19 infection

1077

(28.06%)

I am against vaccination in general

547

(14.25%)

I had COVID-19 already so I don't need the vaccine

196

(5.11%)

Other

18

(0.47%)

Options to encourage future COVID-19 vaccination:

If my physician recommended it to me

863

(22.49%)

If it was mandatory by my Job

830

(21.63%)

If it was compulsory by the government (MOH)

1542

(40.18%)

If my family or friends got vaccinated

433

(11.28%)

If I know that more studies showed that the vaccine is safe and effective

2105

(54.85%)

If there is a way other than injection

142

(3.70%)

For family protection

845

(22.02%)

I would not take it in any situation

676

(17.61%)