Agent-Based Modeling of Vaccine Hesitancy: Exploring the Role of Trust, Policy, and Socioeconomic Factors

This research studies the dynamics of vaccine hesitancy propagation within a developing country context, utilizing Indonesia as a case study and employing agent-based modeling and simulations (ABMs). We explored three distinct scenarios representing various combinations of factors such as vaccine hesitancy beliefs, trust in policy and peers, and socioeconomic capacity. Our results offer significant insights into the interplay of these elements in shaping vaccination attitudes and behaviors. Notably, higher levels of trust in vaccination policies are associated with reduced vaccine hesitancy, underscoring the importance of policy confidence. Additionally, individuals with greater trust in their social circles tend to exhibit lower levels of hesitancy, emphasizing the influence of peer networks. The role of economic capability in vaccine acceptance is found to be moderate. These findings offer pertinent guidance for policymakers and public health practitioners aiming to devise targeted interventions to enhance vaccine acceptance and mitigate preventable diseases, particularly in the context of developing countries such as Indonesia.