I feel a little cautious about getting the first wave of vaccines because of side effects, not the bs autism stuff, but when I was a child and vaccinated against tetanus I had a pretty hardcore reaction (lots of people my age had the same problem, it was just a bad batch or something). I'm a little worried about potential side effects with how quickly they're moving on research and production of the vaccine. Although, the side-effects that are getting reported are just minor stuff like chills and fatigue (about 10% get a fever below 102 degrees). And I can understand people not being able to afford the vaccine, too.

That said, I think the other half of the people expressing caution here are more worried about more illegitimate anti-vax concerns over developing autism or whatever.

I'm still getting it on the first wave, but if only 50% of people do then herd immunity isn't going to help. We'd need 80% of people to take the vaccine in order for it to actually stop covid.

There's a similar problem in Canada, too. It's not a uniquely American thing.