Health communication and vaccine hesitancy. Issue 34 (14th August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Goldstein, Susan; MacDonald, Noni E.; Guirguis, Sherine; the SAGE Working Group on Vaccine Hesitancy, 2
• Is Part Of: Vaccine. Volume 33:Issue 34(2015)
• Page Start: 4212
• Page End: 4214
• Publication Date: 2015-08-14
• Subjects: Vaccines -- Periodicals; 615.372
• DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.04.042
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-410X

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="author" id="abs0005"> <title id="sect0005">Abstract</title> <sec> <p id="spar0005">Health communication is an evolving field. There is evidence that communication can be an effective tool, if utilized in a carefully planned and integrated strategy, to influence the behaviours of populations on a number of health issues, including vaccine hesitancy. Experience has shown that key points to take into account in devising and implementing a communication plan include: (i) it is necessary to be proactive; (ii) communication is a two-way process; (iii) knowledge is important but not enough to change behaviour; and (iv) communication tools are available and can be selected and used creatively to promote vaccine uptake. A communication strategy, incorporating an appropriate selection of the available communication tools, should be an integral part of every immunization programme, addressing the specific factors that influence hesitancy in the target populations.</p> </sec> </abstract>