Evidence-Based Approaches to Combating Vaccine Hesitancy: Data Analysis and Policy Recommendations

Objective

The main objective of this project is to scientifically examine the growing issue of vaccine hesitancy in society and to develop evidence-based policy recommendations aimed at increasing vaccine acceptance. By evaluating the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of parents and healthcare workers regarding vaccines, the project seeks to identify the underlying factors of vaccine hesitancy and contribute to the development of awareness campaigns, educational strategies, and health policies.

Scope

Within the scope of the project, both individuals’ and healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward vaccination will be assessed through a holistic approach. Using data obtained from the Ministry of Health, vaccine hesitancy will be mapped at the provincial/district level across Türkiye; surveys, individual interviews, and expert inputs will be used to analyze regional differences. Additionally, project outputs will be utilized to develop context-specific solutions to be presented to policymakers.

Expected Outcomes

• To reveal parents’ level of knowledge about vaccines and immunization activities.
• To identify the factors influencing parents’ attitudes toward vaccination and their experience of vaccine hesitancy.
• To determine the problems parents face regarding immunization services.
• To assess the attitudes of primary healthcare workers toward vaccines, their level of knowledge about vaccines, and their vaccination behaviors.
• To evaluate primary healthcare workers’ attitudes toward individuals experiencing vaccine hesitancy.
• To identify, based on the clinical observations of primary healthcare workers, the most common causes of vaccine hesitancy.
• To generate scientific evidence that can serve as a reference in developing health policies related to vaccine hesitancy.
• To provide scientific outputs for activities aimed at increasing vaccination coverage.
• To produce holistic policy recommendations aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, aimed at strengthening public health.

This project serves public health by aiming to reduce the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases and increase vaccination rates. Conducted under the coordination of TÜSEB–TÜSPE and with the necessary official permissions obtained from relevant institutions, this project holds strategic importance for community health and is worthy of being shared with the public.