Countering vaccine hesitancy through immunization information systems, a narrative review

Abstract

Immunization is one of the most important public health interventions to contrast infectious disease; however, many people nowadays refuse vaccination. Vaccine hesitancy (VH) is due to several factors that influence the complex decision-making process. Information technology tools might play an important role in vaccination programs. In particular, immunization information systems (IISs) have the potential to improve performance of vaccination programs and to increase vaccine uptake. This review aimed to present IIS functionalities in order to counter VH. In detail, we analyzed the automatic reminder/recall system, the interoperability of the system, the decision support system, the web page interface and the possibility to record adverse events following immunization. IIS could concretely represent a valid instrument to increase vaccine confidence, especially trust in both health-care workers and decision makers. There are not enough trials aimed to evaluate the efficacy of IIS to counter VH. Further researches might focalize on this aspect.

Integrating Public Health Ethics into Shared Decision Making for Children During the Novel Coronavirus Disease-19 Pandemic

“…Families who display vaccine hesitancy for existing immunizations will benefit from pediatricians who strengthen families' health literacy and who utilize proven methods to ensure understanding of information including information technology. 30,31,32 pediatricians may be more directive in recommending participation while being mindful children may have special vulnerabilities after a traumatic event like this pandemic. 33 In contrast, investigational treatments with higher potential harms but possible benefits such as an unproven medication to prevent MIS-C in a child infected with COVID-19 or a vaccine trials will likely pose greater risks to the child and require careful exploration by pediatrician and caregiver with more deference to caregiver preferences.…”

“…Families who display vaccine hesitancy for existing immunizations will benefit from pediatricians who strengthen families’ health literacy and who utilize proven methods to ensure understanding of information including information technology. 30 , 31 , 32 …”

The digital immunization system of the future: imagining a patient-centric, interoperable immunization information system

“…Jurisdictions should be viewing their IIS as a tool to evaluate vaccine effectiveness and safety, as well as an instrument to improve coverage rates and combat vaccine hesitancy. 9 , 10 IISs can identify certain populations by geographic, demographic or behavioral characteristics who are at risk for under-immunization. This is particularly useful at local levels (i.e.…”

Healthcare Students' Flu Vaccine Uptake in the Last 5 Years and Future Vaccination Acceptance: Is There a Possible Association?

“…Vaccine hesitancy is defined as the delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccination despite availability of vaccines 6 . This represents a complex global problem that requires ongoing monitoring and, in times where vaccines are losing public confidence, strengthened efforts and resources to promote effective immunization strategies, train healthcare professionals and implement effective educational and communication programs 7 , 8 .…”