Vaccine Efficacy, Impact, Hesitancy, and Acceptance: Trends for Public Health

Vaccines are indispensable tools in the battle against infectious diseases and hold great potential in combating a myriad of other diseases. The historical achievements accomplished through vaccination, notably in eradicating smallpox and reducing the burden of numerous infections, highlight the essential role of vaccines in public health [1]. However, the success of vaccination efforts hinges not only on the efficacy of vaccines but also on societal acceptance. The willingness of populations to embrace vaccination campaigns profoundly influences their outcomes [2]. Conversely, vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge, potentially undermining the effectiveness of such endeavors [3]. Central to the efficacy of vaccines is the intricate interplay between the immune system and pathogens [4]. In the pursuit of effective disease prevention and eradication, the acceptance and perception of vaccines within populations play pivotal roles [2]. It is imperative to comprehend the mechanisms facilitating vaccine acceptance and their impact on disease perception among communities. Furthermore, the development of strategies aimed at enhancing vaccine acceptance is crucial for successful vaccine implementation endeavors [5]. Achieving a comprehensive approach to vaccine deployment necessitates an understanding of strategies for disease elimination through vaccination efforts [5]. Additionally, elucidating the determinants contributing to vaccine-related side effects is paramount, as such factors can significantly influence vaccine acceptance and efficacy [6]. Therefore, the articles within this Special Issue are dedicated to exploring these aspects. Four of these articles focus on vaccination considerations within the realm of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which represents a significant global threat. Additionally, the fifth article delves into vaccination parameters within the context of another prevalent global infection, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.