Question: what are two public-health measures essential for safeguarding individual health, reducing severe illness, and limiting the spread of infections that fewer than half of Canadians opt into?

Answer: COVID-19 and influenza vaccines.

Not only have both been proven safe through rigorous testing and continuous monitoring, they are also effective at diminishing transmission and illness. And yet, in the last year, only about 21 per cent of eligible Canadians received a COVID-19 booster. Around 42 per cent got the flu shot.

Hesitancy toward getting vaccinated often reflects complex decision-making shaped by more than just health concerns. Religious beliefs, cultural values, and socioeconomic factors also play significant roles.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how important it is for public-health officials to consider the social, cultural, and economic contexts that influence health decisions rather than focusing solely on science communication. Religion, in particular, has been shown to significantly impact vaccine decision-making.

Collaboration between public-health agencies and religious leaders has emerged as a crucial aspect of any vaccination initiative.

Measles outbreaks point to need for mandatory vaccination

Empowering public health officials requires trust........

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