Vaccine hesitancy: a systematic literature review on the rationale behind parental vaccine hesitancy and its effects on pediatric medicine
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Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy remains a constant threat to global health despite the release several public health initiatives aimed at targeting and reducing vaccine hesitancy. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and rapid release of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine resulted in increased vaccine hesitancy amongst individuals. Within pediatric medicine, concerns over the doubt and efficacy of vaccines has led to a significant decrease in the number of children receiving vaccines. Parental delay or refusals of vaccines, termed vaccine hesitancy, has resulted in a recurrence of vaccine preventable diseases such as measles, pertussis, and diphtheria. This review of the literature attempts to understand the parental reasons for continued vaccine hesitancy, examine the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccine hesitancy, and examine how continued vaccine hesitancy is affecting healthcare. An analysis of the literature revealed that health education, geographic location, and economic status are all contributing factors of vaccine hesitancy. More information is needed on this topic to better address and education vaccine hesitant parents.
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2024