2.G. Scientific session: Adult vaccine hesitancy in Europe: insights from national surveys in Malta, Hungary, and Italy

Abstract   Vaccine hesitancy among adults remains a persistent and evolving challenge in Europe, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic and amidst routine immunization efforts. Despite substantial scientific progress and widespread public health campaigns, a segment of the population continues to express reluctance or refusal to vaccinate, impacting collective health outcomes. Understanding the roots and drivers of vaccine hesitancy is crucial for designing effective communication and intervention strategies. This scientific session aims to present new and nationally representative data on adult vaccine hesitancy from three European countries-Malta, Hungary, and Italy. The focus is to deepen the understanding of how hesitancy manifests in different contexts, the interplay with psychological and social factors, and to identify actionable points for public health interventions. By showcasing diverse national experiences, the session highlights both common patterns and country-specific challenges in vaccine acceptance. The first presentation will explore findings from Hungary, where a nationally representative telephone survey investigated attitudes of the adult population towards COVID-19 and influenza vaccination. In a country where childhood immunization is mandatory and trusted, but adult vaccination rates remain low, the study explores how the pandemic's polarizing effect and the spread of misinformation have influenced broader vaccine perceptions. The second presentation will share results from Malta, where a nationally representative survey explored similar themes. Particular attention will be given to attitudes towards COVID-19 and seasonal Influenza vaccines, to determining if the population still feels that these vaccines are relevant to protect their health and to identify reasons for their responses. The third presentation, from Italy, will go beyond sociodemographic analysis and focus on the psychological underpinnings of general vaccine hesitancy. The interplay between cognitive biases, health literacy, conspiracy beliefs, and vaccine-related attitudes will be discussed, offering a multidimensional perspective on hesitancy. The structure of the workshop is designed to foster dialogue and collaboration. Each presentation will be followed by a brief moderated Q&A to clarify key points and engage the audience. After the three talks, an ample interactive discussion period will allow for in-depth exchange of ideas, reflections on national differences and similarities, and brainstorming on potential public health strategies. Through presenting recent, high-quality national data and encouraging active participant involvement, this workshop seeks to stimulate debate, inspire new research collaborations, and support the development of nuanced interventions tailored to diverse European contexts. Key messages • National surveys reveal both shared and context-specific factors influencing adult vaccine hesitancy in Europe, offering critical insights for tailored public health responses. • Understanding psychological and sociocultural drivers of vaccine hesitancy through comparative research is essential for designing effective communication and intervention strategies across Europe.