During most of my career (2005-2025), I investigated attitudes towards vaccinactions in multiple surveys in Poland and Norway. During the process I learned there are many different scientific approaches possible – quantitative research (cross-sectional surveys), valued by epidemiologists who like numbers; qualitative research, developed by social scientists as a complementary source of knowledge on the cultural context of peoples behaviours. This is especially important with attitudes towards vaccination, where beliefs, values and religion plays such an important role! In my experience, Poland experienced a decline in the trust in public health institutions (and vaccinations) between 2010 and 2021, Norway managed to maintain high trust towards vaccinations. Comparing both countries, Norwegian institutions constantly work to maintain public trust and communicate openly, while Polish institutions attempt communication when something is happening.
Why does it matter?
Understanding what people think about vaccination, the most cost-efficient public health intervention, is pivotal. I think that my generation believed too fast in the “magic” of vaccination, not considering that people can have doubts and concerns, often because they are not adequately informed!
Related to
Attitudes towards vaccination in Poland:
- Rogalska J, et al. Przegl Epidemiol 2010; 64: 83-90.
- Rogalska J, et al. Przegl Epidemiol 2010; 64: 91-7.
- Stefanoff P, et al. PLoS One 2020; 15(5): e0232722.
Attitudes towards vaccination in Norway and other countries: