Figures confirm some staff in care homes have refused vaccine

UP to a fifth of staff in some care home groups have refused a coronavirus vaccine when offered, the Press Association has been told, with suggestions that younger workers are more likely to be resistant.

The majority of care home staff who have been offered the jab are getting vaccinated, but data obtained from a number of providers shows between 5% and 21% of staff offered a vaccine have declined it.

One large UK care home group, which asked to remain anonymous, said more than half of residents and 36.8% of staff have had at least one dose as of January 14. However, 21% of staff and 2.7% of residents offered the vaccine had chosen not to take it up.

Nadra Ahmed, from the National Care Association (NCA), said there has been a reduction in refusals, following a strong push from providers to address fears and anxieties.