A recent survey has revealed concerning trends regarding Americans’ perceptions of vaccine safety, particularly in relation to measles, flu, and Covid-19. Conducted by the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, the study highlights a notable decline in public confidence just as the U.S. faces its largest measles outbreak in over two decades and a severe flu season.
Survey Findings
The winter 2025 survey, which encompassed over 1,600 adults across the United States, indicated a small but significant drop in the perceived safety of various vaccines. Specifically, the proportion of respondents who consider the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine safe has decreased from 86% in 2024 to 83% this year. This vaccine is known for providing 97% protection against severe measles following two doses.
Additionally, confidence in the seasonal flu vaccine has also waned, with only 80% of participants viewing it as safe, a decline from 83% the previous year. While the perception of the Covid vaccine remained stable between 2024 and 2025, it has plummeted from 73% in 2022 to just 65% currently.
The Context of Vaccine Hesitancy
The reasons behind this declining confidence remain unclear. Laura Gibson, a research analyst at the Annenberg Centre, expressed concern over the trend, noting that it is uncertain whether recent changes in guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are influencing public perception or if this decline is simply a continuation of a longer-term trend observed from 2022 to 2024.
The shifting landscape of public health policy in the U.S. has contributed to this growing hesitancy. Under the Trump administration, significant changes were made to vaccine-related policies, including the appointment of individuals sceptical of vaccines to key advisory positions. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, has made headlines for his controversial statements on vaccine safety, which have drawn criticism from medical professionals for misrepresenting scientific evidence.
The Current Health Landscape
As vaccine hesitancy rises, the U.S. is grappling with unprecedented health challenges. The ongoing flu season has reached levels not seen in decades, and the nation is experiencing the largest measles outbreak since 2000, particularly impacting regions like South Carolina. While there have been no measles fatalities reported this year, the flu has claimed approximately 12,000 lives, including 60 children, highlighting the severe consequences of vaccine hesitancy.
Dr. Paul Offit, a leading vaccinologist, remarked on the situation, stating, “Our children are suffering needlessly,” during what has been identified as the deadliest flu season for children since the CDC began tracking child deaths in 2004.
The Path Forward
Experts, including Kathleen Hall Jamieson, director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center, stress the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. Although a majority of Americans still regard the MMR vaccine as safe, the current perception, which falls below the 95% threshold necessary for community immunity, raises alarm.
The report also highlights the role of misinformation in exacerbating vaccine hesitancy, particularly through social media platforms that allow for the rapid dissemination of unverified claims.
Why it Matters
The decline in public confidence in vaccines poses a significant risk to public health, particularly during times of widespread outbreaks. As measles and flu cases rise, it is crucial to address the underlying factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. Ensuring accurate information is accessible and combating misinformation will be vital in restoring trust in vaccines, ultimately safeguarding the health of vulnerable populations, especially children. The stakes could not be higher, as the health of communities relies on collective immunity achieved through vaccination.
