Vaccine hesitancy, the delay or refusal of vaccination despite availability, represents a significant global public health challenge. This complex phenomenon is...
Vaccine hesitancy refers to the delay in acceptance or outright refusal of vaccination despite the availability of vaccine services, influenced by factors such as complacency, inconvenience, and lack of confidence.
Key reasons include concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy, misinformation from various sources, lack of trust in healthcare providers or public health institutions, and personal beliefs or values.
It can lead to reduced vaccination coverage, increase the risk of outbreaks for vaccine-preventable diseases, and hinder the achievement of herd immunity, thereby endangering vulnerable populations.
Addressing vaccine hesitancy requires transparent communication, dispelling misinformation with accurate scientific data, building trust through consistent engagement, and making vaccination services more accessible and convenient for communities.