Vaccine hesitation as a public health issue

Abstract

Introduction. The vaccine is a substance used to generate immunity to one or more diseases through the production of antibodies. The substance is prepared from the causative agent of the disease, its products or a synthetic substitute, treated to act as an antigen without inducing the disease. Although vaccination is recognized as one of the most successful in public health, it is still perceived as unsafe and unnecessary by a growing number of individuals. Identifying the real causes in the hesitation of vaccination and denying them can make an essential contribution to solving the public health problem that affects today's society. Aim of study. To assess the main causes of hesitancy of vaccination by the population and determine their role in generating public health problems, in the context of the current pandemic, and also of the previous ones. Methods and materials. Analysis descriptive study was performed on the basis of a questionnaire was used to collect data, 106 citizens of Republic of Moldova over the age of 18 years participated in the survey. Results. 50.9% of respondents accept all vaccines, 40.6% have a reserved attitude and 8.5% are against vaccines. The general refusal of the vaccine is prevalent among women: 85.8% of those who are against vaccines refuses vaccination. 62.3% of them are young women aged18-25 years. The rate of hesitation and acceptance is almost equal. 15 people (28.8%) considered the vaccine unsafe, as well as 15 people (28.8%) are worried about side effects. The amalgam of aberrant information, overshadows all the truthful information and makes it more difficult to access, or the widespread spread of conspiracy theories, is also a very important aspect in the hesitation of vaccines. Conclusion. Different causes of vaccine rejection and hesitation were observed. The wide variety of information, both truthful and less, but also certain religious and cultural factors lead to distrust of vaccination companies. It is also essential to educate in vaccinology by continuously informing the population, with the help of qualified medical staff, to achieve the ultimate goal of ensuring the sustainability of vaccination programs that save lives globally.