Did text-based news-media coverage about the COVID-19 pandemic increase vaccine uptake? A population-based study in Alaska.

COVID-19 vaccinations protect against severe infection, hospitalisation, and death. News media can be an important source of information for the public during a health crisis. This study explores the extent to which local or statewide text-based news coverage of the pandemic was related to the uptake of initial doses of COVID-19 vaccines among adults in Alaska. Multilevel modelling was employed to explore the association between news media intensity and vaccine uptake rates across boroughs and census areas, while controlling for relevant covariates. Results suggest that the intensity of news media did not significantly influence vaccine uptake during the majority of this time period and had a negative affect during the Delta-surge in the fall of 2021. However, the political lean and median age of boroughs or census areas were significantly associated with vaccine uptake. Race, poverty, or education were not significant determinants of vaccine uptake suggesting there are unique differences in Alaska compared to the U.S., particularly amongst Alaska Native people. The political environment in Alaska surrounding the pandemic was polarized. Future research in communications and channels that can cut through this polarized and politicized environment, and reach younger adults is needed.