HESITAÇÃO VACINAL: contribuições do enfermeiro na atenção primária à saúde (APS)

Abstract

Vaccine hesitancy constitutes a significant public health challenge, characterized by the refusal or delay of vaccination even when immunobiologicals are available. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, a reduction in vaccination coverage has been observed, related to the spread of misinformation, fake news, and decreased public confidence in vaccines. In this context, the role of nurses in Primary Health Care (PHC) stands out, through health education, support, guidance, and strengthening ties with the community. Objective: To analyze the role of nurses in addressing vaccine hesitancy in PHC, emphasizing their contributions to combating misinformation and strengthening immunization efforts. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review, with a qualitative approach, conducted in the LILACS, MedLine, and BDENF databases, available in the Virtual Health Library. Articles published between 2016 and 2026, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, were included, and five studies were selected for analysis. Results and Discussion: The results show that nurses play a fundamental role in addressing vaccine hesitancy, acting in active outreach, organizing vaccination rooms, supervising the team, and implementing educational and communication strategies. Furthermore, the established bond with the community facilitates the identification of doubts and barriers related to vaccination. Conclusion: It is concluded that nurses have an essential role in promoting vaccine adherence, although challenges related to misinformation, professional qualification, and strengthening public immunization policies still exist.