A new global survey has revealed that one in five Irish people would not take a traditional vaccine, while one in four would refuse an mRNA vaccine, with hesitancy higher among parents of dependent children.
The findings emerge from research conducted by the Worldwide Independent Network of MR (WIN), which surveyed over 33,000 people across 38 countries, including 1,000 Irish adults polled by Red C Research.
Despite these concerning figures, Ireland still demonstrates stronger vaccine acceptance than global averages. Approximately 73% of Irish respondents said they would accept a traditional vaccine, compared to 68% globally. Similarly, 67% of Irish adults expressed willingness to take an mRNA vaccine, exceeding both European and global averages of 60%.
The research highlighted demographic differences in vaccine acceptance within Ireland. Men (72%), Dubliners (73%), those with third-level education (71%), and individuals from higher socioeconomic backgrounds (75%) showed greater acceptance of mRNA vaccines. Conversely, parents of dependent children and adults aged 35-54 were most hesitant, with only 57% accepting mRNA vaccines.
When given a choice, 40% of Irish respondents preferred traditional vaccines, while 25% favored mRNA vaccines. The remaining participants were either uncertain or rejected both types.
The survey also revealed that Irish adults are generally more comfortable with innovative medicines than the European average. For treatments that interact directly with cell components, 55% of Irish people expressed comfort compared to 46% across Europe. Similarly, 55% were comfortable with personalized medicine based on genetic traits, compared to the European average of 50%.
John Rogers, associate director at Red C Research, described the findings as “largely positive,” attributing Ireland’s relatively high acceptance rates to its “highly educated population and being a global leader in pharmaceuticals.” However, he expressed concern about lower vaccine acceptance among parents, noting the prevalence of “conspiracy theories and misinformation relating to vaccines, particularly involving those that cause negative effects in children.”
Professor Heidi J. Larson, founder of the Vaccine Confidence Project, noted that public hesitation typically accompanies new vaccine technologies, particularly novel approaches like mRNA. She emphasized the importance of monitoring perceptions of RNA-related vaccines over time as familiarity increases, while acknowledging the ongoing challenge of misinformation.