Attitudes towards childhood vaccines and vaccine hesitancy of parents in Northern Cyprus

Vaccines have been a crucial advancement in modern medicine, effectively preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Despite their proven efficacy, vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge for communities, driven by factors such as safety concerns, cultural beliefs, non-scientific misinformation, and accessibility barriers. This study, conducted among parents of pediatric patients at a primary health center and a university hospital in Northern Cyprus, investigates vaccine confidence and vaccine hesitancy and related vaccination behaviors among parents. A cross-sectional survey of 489 participants revealed high vaccination rates (91.3%) but identified gaps in trust and accessibility. Parental concerns over vaccine safety and difficulty reaching healthcare facilities were among the leading reasons for delaying vaccination. Healthcare providers played a key role in influencing vaccination decisions, while social media and community leaders had minimal impact. Findings point to the need for targeted interventions, improved healthcare access, and enhanced communication strategies to address vaccine hesitancy. Strengthening trust between medical professionals, policymakers, and the public is essential for achieving higher vaccination rates and improving public health outcomes.