THE RETURN OF THE PREVENTABLE: MORTALITY AND SEQUELAE OF VACCINE-PREVENTABLE DISEASES IN THE CONTEXT OF VACCINE HESITANCY IN BRAZIL

Abstract

Childhood vaccination is, historically, one of the most thoroughly studied and effective public health strategies for preventing the spread of communicable diseases, especially during childhood. However, worryingly, there has been a sharp decline in vaccine coverage in recent years—a trend strongly fueled by the significant growth of anti-vaccination movements and, simultaneously, by the rapid spread of misinformation. This adverse context directly encouraged an increase in hesitancy regarding the efficacy of vaccines and, as a direct consequence, significantly broadened the likelihood of the re-emergence of serious and vaccine-preventable diseases that were previously well controlled. Therefore, the central objective of this study is to analyze in detail the real influence of anti-vaccination movements on vaccine uptake and, furthermore, to discuss the crucial role of nursing in actively combating misinformation. Conducted on the basis of scientific articles, relevant institutional documents, and specialized literature, this research is configured as a literature review. The analyses indicate that fake news, unfounded fear of adverse reactions, and low perception of disease risk contribute to vaccine refusal. Thus, the role of the nurse in health education stands out, promoting fundamental clarifications and strengthening public trust.