Addressing vaccine hesitancy with parents
Your guide to effective and persuasive communication
In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) named vaccine hesitancy as one of the ten leading threats to global health.1
Vaccine hesitancy—or the delay in the acceptance or refusal of vaccination despite availability of vaccination services2:
It’s important to remember that choosing to delay or refuse a recommended vaccine, does not always mean a patient is anti-vaccination.3,4 In the US, UK, and Canada, <10% of respondents to a 2021 study appeared to be resolutely opposed to vaccines and vaccinations, ie, “anti-vax.”5,a
Ask probing questions to determine if your patient is merely hesitant and needs more information to feel confident in moving forward.
When it comes to vaccines, parents—including those who are hesitant—consider health care providers like you the most trusted source of information.8
Immunization is a key component of primary health care6
Our goal is to support vaccine uptake by helping you invest patients with greater confidence in7:
- Recommended vaccinations
- Providers who administer vaccines
- Processes for vaccine approval and licensing
- The CDC’s recommended immunization schedule
aAccording to the results of a survey of 13,251 online respondents on January 5-19, 2021.5
Supporting you, your patients, and your practice
We invite you to explore sample communication scenarios rooted in evidence-based strategies for overcoming vaccine hesitancy.
Grouped into three topic areas, these sample dialogues will help you address common vaccine questions and concerns with clarity and compassion.
Safety concerns/general mistrust:
Lack of information:
Vaccine necessity:
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