Vaccines: Getting the Facts Right
There is a lot of information online about vaccines — and unfortunately, not all of it is accurate. Misinformation can spread quickly and may cause unnecessary worry or confusion.
We encourage everyone to:
- Don’t believe everything you read online
Social media posts, videos, blogs, and online forums may contain information that is misleading, inaccurate, or not based on scientific evidence. Some stories are designed to create fear or attract attention rather than provide facts.
Before sharing or acting on information, consider:
- Who wrote it?
- Is it based on scientific evidence?
- Does it come from a trusted health organisation?
- Can the information be verified elsewhere?
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) highlights the importance of checking reliable sources and supporting people to recognise misinformation before it spreads.
- Ask questions and do your own research
It is completely normal to have questions about vaccines. We encourage parents, carers, and patients to speak with you health visitor for advice.
Our Immunisation Committee will continue to monitor the concerns and questions being raised with healthcare professionals so that we can provide clear, evidence-based information and respond to common myths or misunderstandings.
- Use trusted sources of information
If you would like to learn more about vaccines, we recommend using reliable, evidence-based websites such as:
- Full Fact – Vaccines
Independent fact-checking on common vaccine claims and misinformation. - NHS – Why vaccination is important and the safest way to protect yourself
Trusted NHS guidance on how vaccines work and why they are important. - World Health Organization – Embrace the facts about vaccines, not the myths
Global public health information addressing common vaccine myths and concerns.
Vaccination remains one of the safest and most effective ways to protect individuals, families, and communities from serious infectious diseases. Reliable information helps everyone make informed decisions with confidence.
