[On the moral dutifulness of using vaccinations]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Immunization Science
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Public opinion on vaccinations has historically fluctuated, moving from initial opposition to widespread acceptance, and more recently, to skepticism and doubt.
• Contemporary anti-vaccination movements, blogs, and associations actively campaign against vaccinations, advocating for the removal of mandatory immunization policies.
• The impact of anti-vaccination campaigns is significant, evidenced by declining vaccination adherence rates, such as a 1% annual decrease in Italy and a 25% drop in measles and rubella vaccinations in certain Italian regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the evolving public perception of vaccinations over time.
• To examine the influence and impact of contemporary anti-vaccination campaigns on immunization rates.
• To propose a framework for preventive immunization based on the concept of "moral dutifulness," moving beyond the mandatory versus recommended vaccination debate.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of public opinion trends regarding vaccinations.
• Assessment of the impact of anti-vaccination campaigns using epidemiological data (e.g., adherence rates).
• Ethical discourse on preventive immunization, focusing on the principle of "moral dutifulness."

Main Results:

• Public attitudes towards vaccinations are characterized by historical shifts and contemporary polarization.
• Anti-vaccination campaigns demonstrably lead to reduced vaccination uptake, with measurable declines in adherence.
• The concept of "moral dutifulness" offers a novel ethical perspective for promoting preventive immunization.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights the critical need to address the negative influence of anti-vaccination movements on public health.
• Declining vaccination rates pose a significant public health risk, necessitating effective counter-strategies.
• Framing preventive immunization as a moral duty can provide a compelling ethical basis for encouraging vaccination.