Communication in Vaccines: a critical view of their impact on society

Abstract

Effective communication around vaccines has become an issue of global relevance. Vaccines are important tools for combating diseases and their effectiveness depends not only on their composition, but also on public perception and acceptance. As they have been the subject of mistrust and misinformation, this article proposes a critical reflection on the importance of transparent and evidence-based communication about vaccines, the role of media and society in shaping perceptions, and strategies to improve public trust.

The media, with its immense reach and influence, has a duty to promote accuracy and truthfulness, especially on such vital issues. Misinformation and mistrust, exacerbated by cognitive bias and rumour, can jeopardise advances in public health, underscoring the need for clear, transparent and evidence-based communication.

To address these challenges, it is essential to adopt interdisciplinary strategies involving education, community engagement and intersectoral collaboration. The health and well-being of future societies will depend, to a large extent, on how we address these issues at the intersection of science, communication and public perception. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that every individual is equipped with the information and understanding necessary to make informed decisions about their health and that of their community.