[Vaccine hesitancy in postpandemic times-A guide for physicians]

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emphasized the importance of vaccinations for the prevention of life-threatening diseases and for avoiding the overburdening of the healthcare system. Despite the clear advantage of vaccinations, increasing vaccine hesitancy has been observed worldwide, especially among young people who are potential future parents. Vaccine hesitancy describes the delayed or lack of willingness to utilize recommended vaccinations and represents a substantial challenge for public health. This article analyzes the causes of vaccine hesitancy in the postpandemic period and discusses factors that could make communication successful. The role of artificial intelligence and structured evidence-based discussion techniques, such as the empathetic refutation interview, are emphasized. The aim is to provide practice-oriented recommendations to be able to provide physicians with tools that can help in the education counselling with insecure patients and can promote the acceptance of vaccinations.