The Scoop on Shots: A Cross-Sectional Survey Describing Where Adults in the United States Obtain Information About Vaccines
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: PurposeTo describe which information sources are most frequently used by adults in the United States to obtain information about vaccines, characterize which of these sources are perceived to be the most and least trustworthy, and examine the number of information sources used by various sociodemographic groups, with an emphasis on sex and age.DesignCross-sectional survey with quota sampling.SettingOnline in the United States, March 2025.Sample5152 adults residing in the United States.MeasuresNumber of information sources used to obtain vaccine-related information, the most and least trusted information sources, and self-reported sociodemographic variables.AnalysisDescriptive statistics and Poisson regressions were used to examine associations between the total number of information sources used and sociodemographic characteristics.ResultsSurvey respondents reported using an average of 2.9 sources (range: 0-12). Medical professionals represented the most frequently used and the most trusted source for vaccine-related information, while radio represented the least used information source and social media the least trusted source. The number of information sources used varied according to respondent age, ethnicity, education, and income.ConclusionMedical professionals represent the most used and trusted source for vaccine-related information. The number of information sources used to gather vaccine information varies along sociodemographic lines. Public health practitioners must give these points due consideration when designing communication strategies.
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,150
OpenAlex ID: W7225455943