The Effect of the Health Literacy Levels of Teachers on Their Vaccine Hesitancy: The Example of Turkey

Abstract Teachers assume important responsibilities in improving the health literacy levels of the society. Health literacy and vaccination are important prerequisites for health protection and promotion. This study aimed to investigate the effect of teachers’ health literacy levels on their vaccine hesitancy. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. The health literacy and vaccine hesitancy levels of the teachers were found to be moderate. A negative and weak significant relationship was observed between health literacy and vaccine hesitancy, indicating that as health literacy increases, vaccine hesitancy may decrease. In addition, it was revealed that general health perception and over-the-counter drug use are associated with health literacy, and age, income status, and place of residence are associated with vaccine hesitancy. The health literacy and vaccine hesitancy levels of teachers should be improved. As health literacy increases, vaccine hesitancy decreases, which is an important finding in terms of increasing the effectiveness of vaccination programs.