Safety Concerns Remain the Biggest Barrier to Childhood Vaccination, Review Finds

A new clinical practice review has highlighted that most vaccine-hesitant parents are not opposed to vaccination itself, but are primarily motivated by concerns about vaccine safety and a desire to protect their children from harm.

Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the review was authored by Professor Margie Danchin from Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) and Associate Professor Sean O’Leary from the University of Colorado. The authors emphasise that vaccine hesitancy exists on a spectrum and that trusted healthcare professionals play a critical role in supporting informed vaccination decisions.

The review reinforces the strong safety record of routine childhood vaccines and highlights the importance of clear, confident recommendations from healthcare providers. Research shows that parents are more likely to vaccinate when clinicians use a presumptive approach, presenting vaccination as the expected norm, while also addressing concerns through respectful, empathetic conversations.

Professor Danchin said maintaining open communication, even when vaccination is delayed or declined, can help build trust and positively influence future vaccination decisions.

The review draws on years of vaccine communication research and the global Vaccine Champions program, which aims to improve vaccine confidence and address misinformation. Supported by the Australian Government and UNICEF, the program trains healthcare workers and community leaders to communicate effectively about vaccination.

New research published in the Annals of Global Health has also demonstrated the program’s success in Vietnam, where 86 per cent of participants reported an increased intention to vaccinate after attending education sessions. The initiative has strengthened trust in vaccines and the healthcare system, particularly in regions with historically low vaccination coverage.

Researchers say the findings highlight the importance of trusted healthcare professionals, evidence-based communication strategies and community-led education programs in improving vaccine confidence and supporting public health outcomes.

Read the full article on the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute website.