Universal vaccination is one of the most effective preventive medical interventions. Active immunization, which is brought about by vaccinations, not only leads to the protection of the vaccinated, but also affects the population as a whole through the phenomenon of collective immunity (herd immunity). Therefore, at international and national level, which we examine in this MSc Thesis, comprehensive vaccination strategies are implemented, by setting individual policies, formulating measurable targets and taking specific measures.

Results: Married status, higher education and income were negatively correlated with hesitancy, whereas positive correlations were found for stress and depressive symptoms and current smoking. Variables related to good awareness and trust towards COVID-19, mitigation public health measures, trusting the government and health authorities to manage the pandemic, lower self-reported capability to protect against COVID-19, vaccination against flu and COVID-19, were strongly associated with being less hesitant against the childhood vaccination programmes. 

Conclusions: The estimated hesitancy against the established childhood vaccinations can be considered alarming. Appreciating the complex reasons behind vaccine hesitancy may inform public health policies to overcome barriers and increase vaccine acceptance and trust.