Parental and adolescent opinion on COVID-19 vaccination among 12–17-year-olds: A hospital-based study

Vaccine hesitancy among parents and adolescents poses a major barrier to achieving optimal COVID-19 vaccination coverage. This hospital- based study at Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Rewa, included 1500 parents and 1695 adolescents aged 12-17 years to assess vaccination intentions and influencing factors. Overall, 63% of parents and 28% of adolescents expressed willingness to vaccinate, with fear of side effects being the predominant concern (> 90%). Parental willingness was significantly associated with younger age, female gender, higher education and prior vaccination (p < 0.001). Strengthening awareness and addressing safety concerns are essential to improve vaccine acceptance among adolescents.