Vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern in the US, not only for COVID-19 but also for pet vaccinations. Canine Vaccine Hesitancy (CVH) is defined as “dog owners’ skepticism about the necessity, safety, and efficacy of vaccines”[4]. Nearly half of dog owners in the US are hesitant to vaccinate their pets, with beliefs that vaccinations are unnecessary and can lead to adverse effects being the most common reasons for vaccine hesitancy[6]. However, veterinarians recommend vaccinating dogs to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and protect both the dog and the human population[1]. While CVH is not yet widespread enough to pose a current threat to public health in the US, it could become a concern if more dog owners continue to be hesitant about vaccinating their pets[4][6].
To address vaccine hesitancy, it is important to understand patients’ concerns and alleviate their fears by providing correct information and addressing misinformation[3]. Motivational interviewing has been suggested as a powerful tool to address vaccine hesitancy[1]. Additionally, it is important to develop tailored interventions that account for the myriad ways that knowledge is mediated in diverse communities[1].
In conclusion, vaccine hesitancy is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. It is important for dog owners to discuss their concerns with their veterinarian and make informed decisions about vaccinating their pets. For COVID-19 vaccines, healthcare providers should understand patients’ perspectives, alleviate their concerns, correct misinformation, and address conspiracy theories[3]. By providing correct information and addressing patients’ concerns, we can increase vaccine acceptance and protect both individual and public health.
Citations:
[1] COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy – PMC – NCBI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9004449/
[2] Vaccine hesitancy in the era of COVID-19 – PMC – NCBI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7931735/
[3] COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy: 10 tips for talking with patients | American Medical Association https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/covid-19-vaccine-hesitancy-10-tips-talking-patients
[4] Majority of US dog owners now skeptical of vaccines, including for rabies: study | The Hill https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/4177294-majority-of-us-dog-owners-now-skeptical-of-vaccines-including-for-rabies-study/
[5] A Qualitative Study of Midwestern Parents’ Decisions Regarding COVID-19 Vaccination for Their Children – Journals@KU https://journals.ku.edu/kjm/article/view/20049
[6] Nearly Half of Dog Owners Are Hesitant to Vaccinate Their Pets | SPH – Boston University https://www.bu.edu/sph/news/articles/2023/nearly-half-of-dog-owners-are-hesitant-to-vaccinate-their-pets/
Source: Perplexity