The price of doubt: Consequences of vaccine hesitancy on the incidence of infectious diseases in Brazil

Delay or refusal to vaccinate refers to the hesitation or resistance of individuals to receive vaccines, whether by postponing, selectively choosing certain vaccines, or outright rejecting immunization. This issue has been studied due to its significant implications for public health and infectious disease control. The phenomenon is influenced by each individual's personal context, their social circle, and specific aspects of a vaccine or the act of vaccination. Trust in vaccines and the healthcare system is crucial for achieving satisfactory vaccination coverage, thereby protecting the population from preventable diseases and their consequences. This work consists of a narrative literature review, where scientific articles and reports related to vaccine hesitancy in Brazil were analyzed, using keywords such as “vaccine hesitancy,” “vaccination coverage,” “National Immunization Program (NIP),” among others. In Brazil, the National Immunization Program (NIP) has been effectively coordinating immunization for 50 years. However, it has faced difficulties in recent years. In addition to convenience-related issues, such as availability and cost, vaccine hesitancy has been on the rise worldwide, alongside the activities of anti-vaccine movements. There has recently been a decrease in vaccination coverage in Brazil, leading to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Undoubtedly, there is a correlation between lower economic power and the incidence of these diseases. This study highlights the importance of promoting trust in vaccines, addressing misinformation, and developing effective strategies to ensure immunization acceptance.