Childhood Vaccine Hesitancy in Two Regions with Different Socioeconomic Backgrounds in Turkey

Abstract

Introduction. This study investigated childhood vaccine hesitancy in two regions with different socioeconomic backgrounds in Kayseri, Turkey. Methods. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2021 and January 2022. The study population consisted of all people over 18 years of age admitted to two family health centers (No 65 and 103) in a city center for any reason. Results. More than half the participants were women (64.1%) and married (79%). Less than half the participants had bachelor’s degrees (44%). Participants had a mean CVHQ score of 61.4±13.7 (min:27, max:135). Participants living in the high socioeconomic (SES) region had a significantly lower mean CVHQ than those living in the low SES region. Participants with bachelor’s degrees had a significantly lower mean CVHQ than those with lower degrees. Participants with family members working as healthcare professionals had a significantly lower mean CVHQ than those without family members working as healthcare professionals. Participants who knew about vaccines had a significantly lower mean CVHQ than those who did not. Participants who thought that vaccines were necessary had a significantly lower mean CVHQ than those who did not. Participants who had a flu shot had a significantly lower mean CVHQ than those who did not. These variables explained 60% of the total variance of the scale score. Conclusions. Vaccine hesitancy and refusal are global public health problems. Vaccine hesitancy is the main reason for vaccine refusal. Therefore, authorities should provide adequate and accurate information about the significance of vaccines to raise public awareness.