Understanding the influence of online information, misinformation, disinformation and reinformation on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance: Protocol for a multicomponent study (Preprint)

BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic generated an explosion in the amount of information shared online, including false and misleading information on the virus, and recommended protective behaviours. Prior to the pandemic, online mis- and disinformation were already identified as having an impact on people’s decision to refuse or delay recommended vaccination for themselves or their children. OBJECTIVE The overall aim of this study is to better understand the influence of online mis- and disinformation on COVID-19 decisions and investigate potential solutions to reduce the impact of online mis- and disinformation about vaccines. METHODS Based on different research approaches, this study involves 1) the use of artificial intelligence techniques, 2) a online survey, 3) interviews and, 4) a scoping review and an environmental scan of the literature. RESULTS As of September 1st, 2022, data collection is completed for all objectives. Analysis is being conducted and results should be disseminated in the upcoming months. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study will help understand the underlying determinants of vaccine hesitancy among Canadian individuals and identify effective tailored interventions to improve vaccine acceptance among them. CLINICALTRIAL