CHILDHOOD VACCINATION IN CRISIS: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOW VACCINATION COVERAGE AND THE RESURGENCE OF DISEASES IN BRAZIL

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594882426093

• Palavras-chave: Childhood Vaccination; Vaccine Hesitation; Immunopreventable Diseases.

• Keywords: Childhood Vaccination; Vaccine Hesitation; Immunopreventable Diseases.

• Abstract:

  INTRODUCTION: Childhood vaccination is one of the most effective interventions in promoting public health and has contributed significantly to reducing morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases. However, Brazil is facing a crisis of low vaccination coverage, which has resulted in the resurgence of previously controlled diseases such as measles and polio. This integrative review seeks to analyze the factors that influence low adherence to the vaccination schedule and its consequences for public health. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to identify and discuss the main factors that contribute to low childhood vaccination coverage in Brazil, assess the impact of vaccine hesitancy and inequalities in access to health services, and propose strategies to improve adherence to the vaccination schedule. METHODOLOGY: An integrative literature review was carried out using databases such as PubMed, LILACS and SciELO. The search was conducted using descriptors related to childhood vaccination, vaccine hesitancy and vaccine-preventable diseases, resulting in 150 articles. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 27 articles were selected for detailed analysis. The data was organized into thematic categories, allowing a synthesis of the main findings. RESULTS: The results indicate that low vaccination coverage is influenced by multiple factors, including vaccine hesitancy, driven by misinformation and anti-vaccine movements, and unequal access to health services, especially in rural areas and vulnerable communities. The analysis revealed that vaccine hesitancy is associated with the resurgence of diseases such as measles and polio, with outbreaks occurring in unvaccinated populations. In addition, interventions such as awareness campaigns and training for health professionals have proved effective in increasing adherence to the vaccination schedule. CONCLUSION: The crisis of low childhood vaccination coverage in Brazil is a complex phenomenon that requires a multifaceted approach. The combination of social, cultural and logistical factors that contribute to vaccine hesitancy and unequal access to health services must be addressed through integrated strategies. Promoting health education, improving access to vaccination and restoring confidence in vaccines are essential to ensure that all children receive the necessary vaccinations, thus protecting public health and preventing the re-emergence of preventable diseases.