The Effect of Health Literacy Knowledge of Parents with Children aged 0-5 years on Their Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines

Objective: To determine the effect of health literacy knowledge of parents with children aged 0-5 on their attitudes towards childhood vaccines. Method: In the study using the relational screening model, the sample consisted of 1008 parents with children aged 0-5, living in XXX city between October 2022 and January 2023. Data were collected via Personal Information Form, Health Literacy Index, and Parental Attitudes Towards Childhood Immunizations (PACV). Results: It was revealed that the variables of education level, place of residence, number of children, children's vaccination status, opinions about vaccines and making the first applications when they get sick affect health literacy knowledge. Their views about vaccines affected parents' attitudes toward childhood vaccines. Conclusion: In order to improve the health literacy of the parents and reduce their vaccine hesitancy, it is recommended to give general health information and organize trainings on the benefits of vaccines and the consequences of being non-vaccinated.