Recent Trends In Vaccines Confidence, A-Review.
Authors: G. Albeshr Abdulhameed , M. Albanyan Ahmad , Obaidallah Duaa , A. Hazzazi Ibtesam , M Aleraij May , T. Alanazi , Setah , Aldhawi Shatha Faisal , A. Alhabdan Yazeed , Alturki Yazeed ,   King Abdulaziz Medical City for National Guard, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, S. Albasheer Ashwaq , A. Alenazi Munifa , A Majrashi Nourah ,   King Abdulaziz university hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Published: February 2025

Background: Vaccines are one of the most effective public
health interventions, contributing to the eradication of
certain diseases and significantly improving life expectancy
while saving millions annually. Regardless of the consensus
among scientists about the benefits of vaccination, an
increasing number of individuals exhibit disbelief or
unwillingness toward vaccines, a phenomenon known as
vaccine hesitancy. This trend poses a significant challenge for
public health agencies globally, which are striving to narrow
the immunization gap. The World Health Organization (WHO)
identified vaccine hesitancy as one of the top threats to global
health in 2019. While misconceptions and misinformation
surrounding vaccines are notable contributors to hesitancy,
it is crucial to recognize the multifaceted nature of this issue,
which varies widely by context, culture, and socio-economic
factors.
Method: A search was conducted by reviewing scientific
literature published between January 1980 and September
2024 through electronic search engines. The criteria for
retaining articles were the following: reports written in the
English language and concerning trust and vaccine hesitancy.
The majority of studies included in this review are crosssectional studies, qualitative studies, and cohort studies.
Results: Vaccine hesitancy is a complex topic. Trust in science
is higher in wealthier countries and in countries where income
inequality is lower. Concern over vaccines’ links to autism
caused the interruption of the Hepatitis B vaccine in France
and a drop in coverage for the measles, mumps, and rubella
vaccine in the United Kingdom and the United States. Fear
of sterilization accompanied a drop in tetanus vaccination
coverage in the Philippines, Nicaragua, and Mexico and
encouraged the boycott of the oral polio vaccine in northern
Nigeria. Seventy percent of participants in a study on the
Human Papillomavirus vaccine in Saudi Arabia expressed
concern about its side effects.
Conclusion: This review provides crucial insights into vaccine
hesitancy that can guide policymakers and public health
professionals in designing effective campaign strategies.
Public confidence in vaccination can wane due to both actual
and perceived risks related to immunization, which may
result in decreased vaccination rates and jeopardize herd
immunity. Individuals’ willingness to receive vaccines is closely
linked to their beliefs, as well as the information they receive
about vaccine safety, efficacy, and importance. Therefore,
effective communication is essential for addressing concerns
and enhancing vaccine acceptance. It is vital to assess and
monitor trust levels in vaccines and to implement targeted
strategies to foster and rebuild that trust, particularly in times
of uncertainty. Addressing these issues will be instrumental
in bridging gaps in vaccine confidence and ensuring broader
public health outcomes.