Increases in preventable diseases due to antivaccination beliefs: Implications for schools

Human history is replete with pandemics caused by virulent diseases that have produced overwhelming suffering and death. Our future will require swift, sensible, and near-universal vaccine response as viruses evolve and thrive. When viruses like COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 emerge and mutate, vaccine researchers must be nimble and responsive to quickly develop effective vaccines. However, averting a preventable disease and consequent pandemic also requires the participation of all members of society, and there remain a considerable number of individuals who refuse to accept vaccination as a safe and effective prophylaxis. This refusal stems from deeply rooted fears and values and is further reinforced by antivaccination propaganda circulating the internet and media. By considering the psychological underpinnings of antivaccination attitudes, vaccination advocates, scientists, and policy makers can adapt and target their vaccination campaigns to appeal to those with doubts and concerns about vaccines. Schools serve an important role in promoting and mandating vaccinations to help prevent disease, and vaccinations are vital in school settings where densely populated classrooms facilitate the propagation of disease. School administrators and school nurses have important roles in establishing vaccination requirements and ensuring compliance, and school psychologists and mental health staff can help address vaccination concerns, doubts, and fears among school staff, parents, and students. It is vital that scientists, health care providers, and school staff work collaboratively to communicate with families and children about vaccination and counter antivaccination narratives with emotionally compelling stories that promote vaccine uptake and prevent disease outbreaks. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).