Vaccination Uptake and Public Health

A special issue of Vaccines (ISSN 2076-393X). This special issue belongs to the section "Human Vaccines and Public Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 March 2025 | Viewed by 10847

Special Issue Editors

Vaccine Research Center & Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
Interests: vaccine behaviours; vaccine psychological measures; vaccine economics

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Guest Editor
Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
Interests: preferences for vaccines; epidemiology and statistics

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Guest Editor
Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology & Vaccine Research Center, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
Interests: epidemiology and bioinformatics of infectious diseases

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite you to contribute to a Special Issue entitled Vaccination Uptake and Public Health in the journal Vaccines, which is an interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed, open access journal on public health. More information about the journal can be found at https://www.mdpi.com/journal/vaccines.

Despite vaccination being acknowledged as one of the most successful public health measures, many individuals choose not to be vaccinated, citing concerns around safety and questioning the necessity of immunization, and there is evidence that vaccine refusal and hesitancy by individuals across the world have been increasing. Vaccine attitude determines people’s intention to vaccinate and consequential vaccine uptake behaviors and preferences. Understanding people’s general affect, attitude, behaviors and preferences towards vaccination is therefore crucial to the successful implementation of a large-scale vaccination program. Therefore, we welcome contributions to this Special Issue focused on attitudes, behaviors and preferences towards vaccination.

This Special Issue aims to publish evidence, observations and comprehensive information in the field regarding, but not limited to, a) the behavior of getting vaccinated; b) attitudes towards vaccination; c) the level of perceived knowledge about vaccines; d) preferences for vaccines among different populations; e) psychological factors associated with vaccine apathy and hesitancy; f) interventions to overcome and prevent vaccine apathy and hesitancy. Contributions to this Special Issue will advance our understanding of potential social and psychological origins of anti-vaccination stances and identify groups for targeted prevention efforts. In this Special Issue, original research articles, systematic reviews, short communications, and other types of articles on related topics are welcome.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Bei Liu
Prof. Dr. Xianhong Huang
Dr. Qingbin Lu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Vaccines is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • attitude
  • perceived knowledge
  • preference
  • psychological factors
  • vaccination
  • public health
  • strategies
  • uptake
  • vaccine apathy

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 255 KiB  
Article
Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy among Cancer Survivors in China: A Multicenter Survey
by Xin Guo, Qi Han, Yuqin Wang, Rui Zhang, Yuenan Huang and Botang Guo
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 639; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060639 - 8 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1124
Abstract
Background: Cancer survivors are at higher risk of developing severe complications from influenza due to their compromised immune systems. Despite their increased vulnerability to influenza and the availability of vaccines, vaccine hesitancy among cancer survivors remains a significant public health concern in China. [...] Read more.
Background: Cancer survivors are at higher risk of developing severe complications from influenza due to their compromised immune systems. Despite their increased vulnerability to influenza and the availability of vaccines, vaccine hesitancy among cancer survivors remains a significant public health concern in China. Methods: A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted among cancer survivors in China from January to December 2023. A total of 500 participants were recruited from the oncology departments of five tertiary hospitals. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, cancer-related information, medical history, lifestyle factors, and influenza vaccine hesitancy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with influenza vaccine hesitancy. Results: The response rate was 97.0% (485/500). Among all participants, 204 (42.06%) reported vaccine hesitancy. The results of multiple logistic regression showed that the longer the end of anti-cancer treatment, without a history of adverse vaccine reactions, and the level of family support played a protective role in vaccine hesitancy. Current rehabilitation status, frequent colds, not being informed by doctors about vaccination, exercising, lack of community vaccination education programs, and concerns about vaccine safety were risk factors that increase vaccine hesitancy. Conclusions: A high proportion of cancer survivors in our study reported influenza vaccine hesitancy. Addressing concerns about vaccine safety, improving access to vaccination services, and enhancing doctor–patient communication are crucial for increasing influenza vaccine uptake in this vulnerable population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Uptake and Public Health)
11 pages, 792 KiB  
Article
COVID-19 Vaccine Motivation and Hesitancy among a Sample of African American, Afro-Caribbean, and African Respondents in the United States
by Shauna K. Elbers, Denise A. Vaughan and Yordanos M. Tiruneh
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060571 - 24 May 2024
Viewed by 982
Abstract
Understanding the motivations and decisions behind COVID-19 vaccine acceptance is crucial for designing targeted public health interventions to address vaccine hesitancy. We conducted a qualitative analysis to explore COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among diverse ethnic subgroups of Black Americans in the United States. This [...] Read more.
Understanding the motivations and decisions behind COVID-19 vaccine acceptance is crucial for designing targeted public health interventions to address vaccine hesitancy. We conducted a qualitative analysis to explore COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among diverse ethnic subgroups of Black Americans in the United States. This study investigates the 2021–2022 responses of 79 African American, Afro-Caribbean, and African respondents over the age of 18 in Washington State and Texas. Respondents were asked “Do you plan to get the COVID-19 vaccination?” Qualitative responses were analyzed by content category and ethnic subgroup. Of the 79 responses, 60 expressed favorable perceptions, 16 expressed unfavorable perceptions, and 3 expressed neutral perceptions. Dominant categories among participants in favor of the vaccine included personal health (26), concern for health of family/or community members (13), and desire to protect others (11). Among the 42 vaccinated African American respondents, the primary motivation was personal health (20). The 12 unvaccinated African American respondents cited fear of side effects as their dominate motivation. Caribbean respondents cited family or elders as motivation for their decision. African respondents were nearly unanimous in taking the vaccine (13/16), citing trust in health care, protecting friends and family, and personal health as reasons. Community and personal relationships were critical decision-making factors in accepting the COVID-19 vaccine, with African Americans having the strongest hesitancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Uptake and Public Health)
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14 pages, 273 KiB  
Article
Anti-Herpes Zoster Vaccination of Fragile Patients in Hospital Setting: A Nudge Intervention in Italy
by Francesco De Caro, Francesca Malatesta, Nadia Pecoraro, Mario Capunzo, Luna Carpinelli, Simona Caruccio, Giuseppina Cersosimo, Maria Costantino, Claudio Giordano, Walter Longanella, Vincenzo Patella, Arcangelo Saggese Tozzi, Giulia Savarese, Pio Sinopoli, Emilia Anna Vozzella and Giuseppina Moccia
Vaccines 2024, 12(4), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12040442 - 19 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1328
Abstract
Background: A nudge intervention against Herpes Zoster, created and implemented in Italy, is presented in order to administer the Shingrix vaccine on a sample of frail patients, as required by the National Prevention Plan. Individual and contextual factors associated with vaccine adherence were [...] Read more.
Background: A nudge intervention against Herpes Zoster, created and implemented in Italy, is presented in order to administer the Shingrix vaccine on a sample of frail patients, as required by the National Prevention Plan. Individual and contextual factors associated with vaccine adherence were investigated. Method: 300 frail adult subjects underwent a full vaccine cycle with recombinant-Shingrix vaccine (RZV vaccine). Hospital Presidia of the Salerno University Hospital Authority, a Hospital Presidium of the Salerno Local Health Authority, and the Public Health Laboratory of the University of Salerno (Campania) participated in the intervention. An ad hoc questionnaire was administered with the following scales: EQ-5D, PSS-10, MSPSS, and representations of HZ and its consequences. Results: Some variables, such as peer support, doctor–patient relationship, level of education, and perception of health, are important in vaccine adherence and information processing. The following factors emerged from the factor analysis: Trust in collective knowledge and collective responsibility (F1); beliefs about virus risk and vaccine function (F2); information about virus and symptomatology (F3); and vaccine distrust (F4). Factor 4 correlates negatively with social support indices (R = −0.363; p < 0.001). There is a significant relationship between factor 3 and satisfaction with national information campaigns (F = 3.376; gdl = 5; p-value = 0.006). Conclusions: Future vaccination campaigns should be built with the aim of personalizing information and developing contextualized strategies, starting from understanding the stakeholders involved, cultural contexts, and organizational settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Uptake and Public Health)
16 pages, 287 KiB  
Article
Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptability among Healthcare Workers in Kenya—A Mixed Methods Analysis
by Victor Mudhune, Ken Ondeng’e, Fanuel Otieno, Derick B. Otieno, Collins M. Bulinda, Ikechukwu Okpe, Sarah Nabia, Naor Bar-Zeev, Omondi Otieno and Chizoba Wonodi
Vaccines 2023, 11(8), 1290; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11081290 - 27 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1664
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) were a priority group for COVID-19 vaccination. Adopting the World Health Organization’s 3C and the expanded 5C vaccine hesitancy models, we assessed the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptability among HCWs in Kenya. In a mixed methods study, respondents were [...] Read more.
Healthcare workers (HCWs) were a priority group for COVID-19 vaccination. Adopting the World Health Organization’s 3C and the expanded 5C vaccine hesitancy models, we assessed the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptability among HCWs in Kenya. In a mixed methods study, respondents were from eight selected counties across the country. An online survey (n = 746), key informant interviews (n = 18) and focus group discussions (n = 3) were conducted. The data were analyzed concurrently. Quantitative data showed that all the 3C antecedents were strong predictors of vaccine acceptability. The association of vaccine acceptability was strongest with convenience (aOR 20.13, 95% CI 9.01–44.96), then complacency (aOR 10.15, 95% CI 4.63–22.21) and confidence (aOR 6.37, 95% CI 2.90–14.02). Marital status was a significant independent factor associated with vaccine acceptability (aOR 2.70, 95% CI 1.20–6.08). Qualitatively, convenience presented as the no-cost availability of vaccines at the health facilities, whereas non-complacency manifested from the first-hand observed experience of COVID cases, and the need to protect oneself and family members. Confidence was mainly attributed to increased knowledge, resulting from multiple training sessions and trust in regulatory authorities. Other social factors including workplace pressure, religion and misinformation had a role in influencing HCW vaccination decisions. In the background of a pandemic, the 3C model is a strong predictor of vaccine acceptability, and making the vaccines easily available and convenient to HCWs significantly impacts their uptake. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Uptake and Public Health)
14 pages, 1074 KiB  
Article
Vaccine Hesitancy Phenomenon Evolution during Pregnancy over High-Risk Epidemiological Periods—“Repetitio Est Mater Studiorum”
by Valeria Herdea, Petruta Tarciuc, Raluca Ghionaru, Mircea Lupusoru, Elena Tataranu, Sergiu Chirila, Oana Rosu, Cristina Oana Marginean, Eugene Leibovitz and Smaranda Diaconescu
Vaccines 2023, 11(7), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11071207 - 5 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1977
Abstract
(1) Background: The recent epidemiological events were high-stress level generators for humanity, particularly for pregnant women, influencing their attitude, behavior, and decisions regarding vaccination during pregnancy or regarding their future child. The aim of this study was to analyze the anti-pertussis vaccination decision-shaping [...] Read more.
(1) Background: The recent epidemiological events were high-stress level generators for humanity, particularly for pregnant women, influencing their attitude, behavior, and decisions regarding vaccination during pregnancy or regarding their future child. The aim of this study was to analyze the anti-pertussis vaccination decision-shaping factors in pregnant women during two epidemiological periods: the measles epidemic and the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) Methods: Two groups of pregnant women were invited to be part of a medical education program, having as the main theme the infectious disease risks and their prevention through vaccination. Before launching the program, participants received a 12-item questionnaire. From a total number of 362 pregnant women enrolled in the study, 182 participated in 2019, and 180 participated in 2022. (3) Results: The socio-demographic data revealed that the age of pregnant women participating in medical education programs increased in 2022 by 1.7 years (p < 0.01). In vitro fertilization was reported in a significantly higher proportion (20% in 2022 vs 9.8% in 2019, p < 0.01). Participation in community-initiated educational programs almost doubled during the pandemic time from 18.7% in 2019 to 33.9% in 2022 (p < 0.01). Pertussis vaccine acceptancy (VA) dropped from 85% in 2019 to 44.4% in 2022 (p < 0.01) (4) Conclusions: In this study, we reported fast-growing vaccine hesitancy and severe declared vaccine reluctance. The results of this complex long-term study, which evaluated pregnant women over several years, showed a five-fold increase in the percentage of pregnant women who disagreed with personal pertussis vaccination. This draws attention to the risks of pertussis epidemic outbreaks in pregnant women and their future infants in the first couple of months of life before the initiation of vaccination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Uptake and Public Health)
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Review

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22 pages, 351 KiB  
Review
Vaccination for Respiratory Syncytial Virus: A Narrative Review and Primer for Clinicians
by Kay Choong See
Vaccines 2023, 11(12), 1809; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11121809 - 2 Dec 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2892
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) poses a significant burden on public health, causing lower respiratory tract infections in infants, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Recent development and licensure of effective RSV vaccines provide a promising approach to lessening the associated morbidity and [...] Read more.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) poses a significant burden on public health, causing lower respiratory tract infections in infants, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Recent development and licensure of effective RSV vaccines provide a promising approach to lessening the associated morbidity and mortality of severe infections. This narrative review aims to empower clinicians with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions regarding RSV vaccination, focusing on the prevention and control of RSV infections, especially among vulnerable populations. The paper explores the available RSV vaccines and existing evidence regarding their efficacy and safety in diverse populations. Synthesizing this information for clinicians can help the latter understand the benefits and considerations associated with RSV vaccination, contributing to improved patient care and public health outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Uptake and Public Health)
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