Exploring epidemic voluntary vaccinating behavior based on information-driven decisions and benefit-cost analysis.

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Behavioral Economics
• Mathematical Modeling

Background:

• Human behavior dynamically influences epidemic transmission and vaccination uptake.
• Information processing capacity and perceived risks affect individual vaccination decisions.
• Factors like altruism, free-riding, and immunity escape shape vaccination behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To model the interplay between epidemic dynamics, human behavior, and vaccination decisions.
• To analyze how information availability and individual decision-making influence vaccination strategies.
• To identify key factors that enhance vaccination willingness and control disease spread.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Gompertz model for cumulative information growth and epidemic processes.
• Developed a benefit-cost analysis framework for vaccination decisions, incorporating social factors.
• Employed mean-field calculations and a fourth-order Runge-Kutta method for numerical simulations.

Main Results:

• Vaccination decisions become more favorable when the number of infectious individuals reaches a critical threshold.
• Authoritative media significantly influences vaccination choices; extended vaccine protection duration is crucial.
• Prosocial behavior and clear communication on vaccine safety enhance vaccination willingness and disease control.

Conclusions:

• Public health strategies should leverage social benefits and clear communication to boost vaccination rates.
• Improving health literacy and addressing misinformation are vital for effective epidemic control.
• Targeted interventions, like prosocial nudges, can bridge immunity gaps and support public health measures.