Disinformation on Vaccination in the Era of Social Media: A Review of Current Research

Abstract In recent years, social media has emerged as a critical vector for the spread of health-related disinformation, significantly influencing public attitudes toward vaccination. This narrative review investigates how disinformation on platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok contributes to vaccine hesitancy and declining immunization rates, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The review analyzes studies from 2020 to 2025, highlighting the correlation between exposure to anti-vaccination content and reduced vaccine uptake, including the reemergence of preventable diseases like measles, pertussis, and polio. It also identifies the most prevalent vaccine-related myths - such as alleged links to autism and risky adolescent behawior - and presents scientific evidence that refutes them. Furthermore, the study evaluates the effectiveness of traditional and digital educational campaigns, emphasizing that while traditional methods can influence policy, social media-based initiatives offer greater reach and interactivity. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted, trust-building communication strategies and cross-sector collaboration to combat misinformation and promote vaccine literacy in the digital age.