With an ethically sound approach, we examined individual, socio-demographic and macro-level factors of vaccine hesitancy, analysed media coverage on vaccines and collected interviews with 160 parents and 171 HCPs and 465 hours of observations. We developed and evaluated interventions, engaging about 400 HCPs in in-person educational sessions, about 300 in online sessions, and reached an additional 950 HCPs and stakeholders with RLOs, which remain in use. We exploited results to 520 medical and 700 nursing students through educational events and 200 nursing students via RLOs. We produced educational materials, such as RLOs, podcasts, games and publications (vax-trust.eu). We disseminated results through scientific journals, magazines and conferences.
We identified healthcare corruption and societal trust as key macro-level factors influencing vaccine attitudes. We also found significant individual-level interactions between gender, education, and number of children affecting vaccine perceptions. Cross-level interactions were noted for views on vaccine effectiveness and importance, underscoring the need for an intersectional, macro-sociological approach to studying vaccine hesitancy.
We revealed diverse vaccine discourses which people making vaccine decisions encounter, both intentionally and accidentally. They utilize various sources that influence and moderate vaccine-related controversies, involving political, financial, technological, and scientific factors.
We highlight the critical role of trust-building relationships among children, parents, and HCPs. We identified effective strategies for engaging vaccine-hesitant parents, who often feel criticized, and their autonomy violated in discussions with HCPs. While some HCPs felt confident in addressing vaccine hesitancy, many expressed uncertainty on the appropriate communication and actions in such encounters.
We underscore that vaccine discussions consider the physical, emotional and informational needs of both parents and children, advocating for decision-making that includes their unique perspectives. Healthcare organizations should provide training, peer and formal support to help HCPs develop skills to address vaccine hesitancy.
