Oxford University professor’s book to explore pro-vaccine activism

Professor Samantha Vanderslott’s book, Pro-vax, aims to redefine how people think about vaccination.
In the book Professor Vanderslott, an expert in the politics of vaccination, examines the social and political dynamics that promote vaccine acceptance, and explores the strategies, achievements, and challenges faced by pro-vaccine advocates
The book combines historical research, qualitative analysis, and storytelling to show how these advocates influence public attitudes, shape health policies, and inspire community action.
Professor Vanderslott said: “Vaccination is both a social activity on a grand scale and an experience that is very personal and individual.
“Add to the mix the understanding of vaccination in culture, the media, and others around us in society, and attitudes to vaccination become complex.
“For a long time, the concentration has been on attitudes to vaccination by those who are in opposition (the ‘anti-vax’), neglecting the majority who are supportive.
“This book aims to reconsider vaccination as a phenomenon from the perspective of those who are ‘pro-vax’, who actively support and vocally promote vaccines.”
Professor Heidi Larson, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, has praised the book as a “thoughtful and well-written exploration of the people and movements driving vaccine confidence”.
She added: “Pro-vax sheds light on the essential but often overlooked dimension of positive activism in a challenging environment.”