It seemed for a moment that we had Covid-19 under control. Many of us adhered to safety protocols, and life began to resemble a sense of normalcy once again. Kids returned to school, we transitioned from pajamas to daytime outfits, and our footwear choices improved. But now, the situation has shifted.
Current statistics are concerning. Nearly two years since Covid-19 made its entrance, the U.S. is seeing new cases soar, with over 115,000 reported last week alone. Variants like Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta have emerged, complicating our battle against the virus. Although many embraced mask-wearing as a protective measure, the introduction of vaccines offers a more effective defense. Unfortunately, only 58.2% of Americans are fully vaccinated, with approximately 25% outright refusing the vaccine. The remaining 27.8% are uncertain, which leaves us questioning how we can motivate this hesitant group to get vaccinated.
The CDC and health experts like Dr. Smith have inundated the public with information on vaccine safety and efficacy. However, it appears that mere facts are insufficient to convince those wary of vaccination. Various methods are being employed to encourage immunization, from yard signs proclaiming vaccination status to celebrities like the Dalai Lama and Britney Spears advocating for the vaccine. Not to mention, Jamie Lee Curtis has creatively parodied a popular song, urging people to get vaccinated.
Stickers proclaiming “I got my Covid-19 vaccination” and alarming testimonials from regrettable patients have the potential to sway some viewers. But how effective are these strategies overall? Perhaps somewhat, but one approach that seems to be making a tangible difference is the introduction of vaccine incentives. These incentives range from lackluster to enticing, with various states finding unique ways to attract individuals to vaccination sites.
Examples of Creative Incentives
For instance, Teton County in Wyoming offers “shots for swag,” while Indiana tempts residents with a box of Girl Scout cookies. Other states are more ambitious, with New Jersey providing free beer, and Krispy Kreme allowing free donuts indefinitely. Washington is enticing people with gaming consoles and smart speakers, while Maine promises hunting and fishing licenses. Maryland is even offering $100 to state employees who get vaccinated.
In Alabama, the Talladega Superspeedway is attracting drivers aged 16 and older with the chance to race on a professional track. In some cases, the stakes are even higher: West Virginians aged 12 to 17 can win four-year scholarships, while Illinois residents can enter a $10 million vaccine lottery. California is offering a total of $10.5 million in prizes, and Michigan is conducting a daily drawing for $50,000.
According to a recent report by the New York Times, these incentives are proving effective. A study from the U.C.L.A. Covid-19 Health and Politics Project found that a third of those unvaccinated indicated that a cash incentive would make them more likely to receive the vaccine. Ohio experienced a notable spike in vaccination rates following the announcement of a lottery incentive, with rates climbing 28% in under a week.
While Democratic individuals seemed more inclined to respond to cash incentives, Republicans were more influenced by the promise of lifted restrictions. Hawaii is tapping into this by offering rewards like a year’s worth of pizza and airplane tickets, combined with the prospect of lifting restrictions once a 70% vaccination rate is achieved.
Some critics dismiss these incentives as mere bribes, yet if they yield results, I’m all for them, regardless of the label. However, not all incentives appeal to every unvaccinated individual. For instance, someone with a sweet tooth might be tempted by Girl Scout cookies while another may prefer luxurious vacations. And it’s true that some anti-vaxxers may remain unmoved by any offers. I wish, however, that the desire for a return to a pre-Covid sense of normalcy was compelling enough for everyone.
Further Insights
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Summary
States are exploring creative incentives to encourage Covid-19 vaccinations, ranging from food and drink offers to substantial cash prizes. While some incentives resonate more than others, they appear to be effective in increasing vaccination rates. As the pandemic continues, innovative strategies may help persuade the hesitant to get vaccinated.