PFID Poll: Bipartisan Support for Continued Vaccine Availability and Concern Over Declining Childhood Vaccination Rates
The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID) has released the results of a public opinion poll that highlights a strong consensus among American voters on the importance of continued access to FDA-approved vaccines. The poll, which found broad support across political affiliations, also reveals significant concern over the decreasing rates of childhood vaccinations.
A Unified Call for Vaccine Access and Development
The bipartisan survey, conducted by Public Opinion Strategies and Lake Research Partners, explored registered voters’ views on vaccination trends, vaccine access, U.S. leadership in vaccine development, and trust in information sources. The results illustrate widespread recognition of the critical role vaccines play in protecting public health.
Key findings from the survey include:
- 74% of American voters believe the U.S. should prioritize ensuring that FDA-approved vaccines are widely available to all individuals.
- 81% of respondents agree that it is crucial for the U.S. to maintain its leadership in developing new vaccines.
- Nearly 70% of participants expressed concern about the decline in vaccination rates among children.
The poll also highlighted the high level of trust Americans place in their healthcare providers when it comes to vaccine-related decisions. Despite the proliferation of various information sources, respondents overwhelmingly favored professional medical advice over other sources. More than half of those polled stated that they place “a great deal of weight” on their doctor’s opinion regarding vaccines—more than any other source of information.
Additionally, 88% of parents with children under the age of 18 reported that they either always or sometimes vaccinate their children based on their doctor’s recommendations. Similarly, 77% of voters indicated that they generally follow their doctor’s advice for their own vaccinations.
However, the findings also indicate that this trust is fragile, as inconsistent messaging about vaccines continues to circulate. The poll underscores the importance of clear and transparent communication to maintain public trust in vaccines and the healthcare system.
Bipartisan Consensus on Vaccines
Neil Newhouse, partner and co-founder of Public Opinion Strategies, emphasized the significance of the findings: “Vaccines remain a critical public health issue with support from voters across the political spectrum. Despite political differences, Americans recognize a fundamental need to protect themselves, their families, and their communities through vaccines.”
David Mermin, a partner at Lake Research Partners, also commented on the results, noting that “despite political divides on some health issues, it is heartening to see a clear consensus around the importance of vaccines in protecting American families. Ensuring access to accurate information and maintaining trust in healthcare providers will be key to sustaining this support.”
Candace DeMatteis, policy director for PFID, pointed out the bipartisan nature of the support for vaccines: “This poll underscores a fundamental truth: protecting our health through vaccination is not a partisan issue. Vaccines like the ones for polio, measles, and many other serious pathogens are widely regarded as vital for public health. Americans understand the benefits of vaccines in safeguarding our children and communities, and we must continue to prioritize access to vaccines and credible scientific information to inform decisions.”
Challenges and Solutions for Vaccine Confidence
The poll also revealed that while most Americans continue to trust healthcare providers, the complex landscape of information surrounding vaccines could pose challenges. Mixed messaging from various sources, including media outlets, social platforms, and political figures, may erode the confidence many people have in vaccines. As a result, consistent messaging from trusted medical professionals will be essential for preserving public trust.
The poll further noted that while a vast majority of respondents support continued access to vaccines and trust their healthcare providers, ongoing efforts to combat misinformation about vaccines are critical. In an era of rapid information sharing, addressing concerns, dispelling myths, and emphasizing the benefits of vaccines will be crucial to ensuring that more people remain confident in the safety and efficacy of vaccination programs.
Methodology
Public Opinion Strategies and Lake Research Partners designed and administered this nationwide poll from January 15-24, 2025. The survey was conducted via an online panel and text-to-online interviews, with a sample size of 1,386 registered voters. The breakdown of the sample included 788 self-identified Republican voters and 776 voters from other political affiliations (Democrats and Independents). The margin of error for the weighted sample is +/-2.6%. For a more in-depth look at the findings and methodology, additional details can be found on the PFID website.
About the Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease
The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID) is an alliance of patients, healthcare providers, community organizations, academic researchers, and infectious disease experts dedicated to raising awareness of the threats posed by infectious diseases. The organization advocates for continued innovation, access to essential medicines, and policies that ensure the public’s health and safety in the face of emerging health challenges.
