Parental vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Georgia: the role of trust in science, government, and religion.

Abstract

Background: Parental vaccine hesitancy (VH) remains a public health concern in Georgia, where misinformation and distrust continue to hinder routine childhood immunization. VH is shaped by psychological, sociocultural, and informational factors, including trust in science, public authorities, and religious institutions. This study examined whether trust-related variables were stronger predictors of VH than traditional sociodemographic characteristics.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between 15 May and 13 June 2025, using a structured questionnaire distributed at two pediatric clinics in Tbilisi and online. A total of 1086 parents participated. Vaccine hesitancy was measured using the Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines (PACV) questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26, applying correlation, chi-square, ANOVA, linear regression, and General Linear Models.

Results: The mean PACV score was 10.01, indicating low to moderate hesitancy. Trust in science (mean = 8.16) showed a strong negative association with VH. Trust in public authorities was also inversely related to VH, while higher trust in the Georgian Orthodox Church predicted greater hesitancy.

Conclusion: Trust in science and institutions was more predictive of VH than demographics. Public health strategies should promote scientific literacy and culturally sensitive communication, especially in religious and less-educated communities.