STRENGTHENING VACCINATION COVERAGE: THE ROLE OF NURSES IN COMBATING MISINFORMATION

Abstract

Vaccines are among the most effective public health strategies, but the spread of misinformation has intensified vaccine hesitancy. Considering the essential role of nurses in health education and building community trust, this study analyzed their role in addressing misinformation and promoting vaccine adherence. This is an exploratory and qualitative literature review conducted in the MEDLINE and Scopus databases, including studies published between January 2020 and October 2025 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Fourteen articles were included. The results show that nurses act as trusted agents, health educators, and mediators between the health system and the population, using empathetic and evidence-based communication. It is concluded that strengthening professional training, recognition, and the ethical use of social media is essential to combat misinformation and increase public confidence in vaccination.