Similar numbers say deliberately published false information is main reason for public confusion about vaccinations

Nine out of 10 U.S. academic scientists surveyed believe scientists have a part to play in reducing vaccine hesitancy among the public, a research team from Arizona State University’s Center for Science, Technology and Environment Policy Studies (CSTEPS) has found. In addition, nearly nine in 10 said they believe deliberate dissemination of false information is a major source of public confusion about receiving vaccinations. CSTEPS’ science communication platform, SciOPS (Scientist Opinion Panel Survey), recently reported results of the survey, which tabulated responses from 316 U.S. academics in science provided between April 4 and May 1. SciOPS researches opinions of thousands of experts in science, technology and innovation. Findings were published in a research article titled “How Scientists View Vaccine Hesitancy.” CSTEPS Director Eric Welch of ASU’s School of Public Affairs led a team of researchers from ASU and the University of Illinois, Chicago, in producing the three-section survey. Results were released in July. The...