The World Health Organization has identified vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation, as one of the greatest threats to global health. Vaccine misinformation is widespread, undermining public trust and making it challenging for people to make informed decisions about their health.
However, research shows that using evidence-based tactics — like leading with facts, referencing trustworthy sources, and providing clear, sharable content — can effectively counter misinformation.
As an employer, you have a unique opportunity to be on the frontlines of combating misinformation — not only during National Immunization Awareness Month, but all year long. Check out our seven tips to help you lead the fight against misinformation, empower your employees to take charge of their well-being, and improve the overall health of your workforce.
1. Understand How Misinformation Spreads
Misinformation spreads quickly through social media, where it's easy to share without checking facts. People are more likely to share misinformation when it reflects their personal identity, presents new or unusual ideas, and evokes strong emotions. People often share misinformation because:
- They enjoy having and sharing unique knowledge.
- They want to protect their loved ones by passing along potentially helpful advice.
- They're seeking explanations that help them make sense of uncertain times.
- They desire connection and belonging, especially within online communities where people bond over shared beliefs.
2. Promote Benefits That Encourage Vaccination
- Implement on-site vaccination clinics to make access convenient for employees.
- Offer paid time off for vaccination appointments.
- Consider subsidizing or covering the cost of vaccinations for employees.
- Make sure your insurance benefits include free or affordable immunization services.
- Offer incentives to get vaccinated, such extra paid time off, additional leave days, contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), gift cards, and free or discounted gym memberships.
3. Offer Vaccine Education
- Host expert-led forums where medical professionals or public health experts can share facts about vaccines. Make sure these forums provide a supportive environment where employees can express their concerns and ask questions. Record and share these sessions with all employees.
- Provide evidence-based information about vaccines from trusted health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Develop a digital resource library accessible through the company's intranet, containing videos, articles, and guidelines from trusted health organizations.
4. Train Employees To Spot Misinformation
5. Communicate Regularly on Multiple Channels
- Include vaccine information in onboarding materials.
- Post your vaccine policy and reliable resources on your benefits portal.
- Share seasonal vaccine information in your employee newsletter, and announce regular or seasonal reminders on your company’s messaging platform and in team meetings.
- Display vaccine information in common areas where announcements are posted.
- Circulate accurate information frequently, as repetition increases credibility. Use multiple channels like email, intranet, and digital signage to ensure everyone receives the message.
6. Use Peer Influence
- Distribute badges or stickers for employees to wear after vaccination to promote a culture of health and safety.
- Create and share video interviews, infographics, social media posts, or email newsletters featuring vaccinated employees discussing their motivations and experiences with vaccination.
7. Build Bridges to Understanding
- Respond directly to employees who spread false information calmly and professionally, avoiding personal beliefs. It’s difficult to change deeply held beliefs, so focus on reducing workplace disruption and fostering a respectful environment.
- Listen empathetically to understand employees' perspectives and emotional reasons behind their beliefs. Encourage reliance on credible sources and remind employees that expertise in one area does not imply expertise in all.
- Use inclusive language, avoid public shaming, and address concerns through private, respectful conversations.
- Foster a culture of empathy and understanding for those hesitant about vaccines with communication tips from this Community Toolkit for Addressing Misinformation from the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General
By taking proactive steps to combat vaccine misinformation, you can build trust, help employees make educated decisions about their health, and create a safer, healthier workplace.
Want To Learn More?
Explore these curated resources to help you promote accurate vaccine information and fight health misinformation in your workplace.
Additional Resources About Vaccines
Additional Resources About Misinformation
