This cross-sectional study investigated the effects of religious beliefs on perceptions of compatibility between religion and vaccines and COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Africa and Asia Pacific using data from two survey waves (2021-2022). Logistic regression models, incorporating interaction terms between socio-economic factors, were employed. Results showed lower agreement on vaccine-religion compatibility among Atheists and Buddhists in Asia Pacific. Vaccine acceptance was consistently higher in Asia Pacific. Education's impact varied across religious groups, with compatibility positively influencing acceptance. Regional, religious, and socio-demographic factor dynamics changed over time, with increased vaccine endorsement in Wave 2 for most groups except Atheists and Muslims. The study highlights complex, context-dependent relationships and the need for tailored approaches to address vaccine hesitancy.

Shihui Jin, Alex R. Cook, Robert Kanwagi, Heidi J. Larson, Leesa Lin