Understanding and Handling Vaccine Hesitancy

Vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern to experts around the world and could increasingly jeopardize the success of vaccination campaigns. Ambivalence in questions of vaccination is promoted through mistrust of vaccines and providers, furthermore through the plethora of unfiltered and often contradictory information leading to uncertainty as to whom one shall believe. Individuals are also in a dilemma in issues of vaccination, having to decide if they will accept vaccines regarding only their own wellbeing or also as an act of solidarity to maintain a high level of vaccination rates in order to eradicate diseases. Finally vaccine hesitancy is also maintained by the success of vaccination. Vaccine preventable diseases have become so seldom that many individuals perceive them as negligible. The risk of vaccination then surpasses the risk of disease thus leading to the rejection of vaccination. Although those opposing vaccination comprise only a small minority of the population, their arguments seem to be heard disproportionately, influencing vaccine hesitants very strongly. On the other hand family doctors are still highly appreciated as advisors in health related issues. These health providers can play an important role in stimulating vaccine acceptance. Delivering transparent and evidence- based information on vaccination through competent communication skills helps to rebuild the dwindling trust in vaccines. Sufficient time is required for an enriching dialogue.