P2.137: Parents’ Rising Hesitancy and Doubt in Routine Childhood Vaccinations Post-COVID-19: Insights from a Comprehensive Survey in North Texas

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare access, leading to canceled pediatric visits and delayed childhood vaccinations. Despite the resumption of regular appointments, routine immunization rates continue to decline. This drop is largely driven by persistent vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation, distrust, and lingering skepticism about vaccine safety and efficacy. The pandemic has exacerbated these concerns, with many caregivers now questioning the necessity and safety of routine childhood immunizations. The decline in vaccine uptake presents a significant public health challenge, increasing the risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.

Methods: This study surveys caregivers of pediatric patients in North Texas to assess how their views on childhood vaccinations have evolved post-pandemic. Specifically, it examines how demographic variables, personal beliefs, and pandemic-related experiences influence vaccine decision-making. Caregivers visiting pediatricians in North Texas were invited to participate in an anonymous survey assessing their vaccination attitudes, sources of information, concerns about side effects, and potential financial barriers.

Results: Preliminary data from Cook Children's Pediatrics South Denton reveal a striking shift in vaccine perceptions post-COVID-19. Among respondents, 59% reported that their opinions on childhood vaccinations have changed since the pandemic. Additionally, 68% now believe vaccines have dangerous side effects, and 63% now feel less confident in their effectiveness than they did prior to the pandemic. These findings highlight the lasting impact of the pandemic and growing skepticism among caregivers. Many have been exposed to conflicting information, leading to heightened uncertainty about vaccine safety and necessity. Financial barriers, concerns over long-term side effects, and increased reliance on social media for health information further contribute to declining immunization rates.

Conclusion: This study provides critical insight into the evolving landscape of vaccine hesitancy and aims to equip pediatricians with effective strategies to address caregiver concerns. By identifying key misconceptions and sources of distrust, healthcare providers can tailor their communication efforts to rebuild vaccine confidence. Addressing misinformation, reinforcing the proven safety and efficacy of vaccines, and fostering open, transparent discussions with caregivers are essential to reversing the decline in childhood immunization rates. Strengthening vaccine uptake is crucial to maintaining herd immunity and preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases in the wake of pandemic-induced skepticism.