Vaccine Misconceptions and Healthcare Workers 2306364

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Despite vaccination being one of the most effective public-health interventions, vaccine confidence has recently declined. Widespread misinformation and reduced trust in public health agencies have created challenges for those in healthcare. Perceived gaps in federal communication further complicate clinical and educational information-seeking. As institutional credibility is questioned, healthcare professionals rely on fragmented online sources that amplify uncertainty and misinformation. Polling data show that parents report trusting non-medical influencers (i.e. Joe Rogan, RFK Jr., and the Children’s Defense Fund) for critical children’s health information. The politicization of science underscores the urgent need to strengthen immunology and vaccine literacy education across clinical training and healthcare professionals. Methods We conducted an IRB-approved, anonymous assessment (n = 7711) across those employed in healthcare/science (HCW/S) and non-healthcare workers (NHCW). Results Results showed that although HCW/S generally held more accurate vaccine perceptions than NHCW, misconceptions remained common. For the statement, “There is evidence that the mercury in the measles vaccine can cause autism”, HCW had a lower weighted mean score (1.97 vs. 2.35; n = 7711; p = 0.05). However, 32% still selected strongly agree, agree, or neither agree nor disagree, despite this statement being factually incorrect. Similar analyses were observed across other statements, including 33% of HCW believing the influenza vaccine can cause influenza. Conclusion Vaccine education rooted in core immunologic concepts and communication literacy is critical amid declining trust in traditional public-health authorities. Strengthening immunology curricula, CMEs, CEUs, role playing, discussions, etc. are critical to ensure that healthcare professionals can critically evaluate evidence, identify reliable sources, and counter misinformation to sustain a scientifically informed workforce. Funding Source n/a Topic Categories Immunology Education and Communication (EDU)