Research Overview

Vaccinations represent one of public health's greatest achievements, yet growing hesitancy threatens to undermine decades of progress in disease prevention and control. My research examines vaccination attitudes and behaviors across multiple populations and contexts, from traditional childhood immunizations to emerging vaccines, from school-based health centers to veterinary practices, and from human to pet vaccinations. This comprehensive approach provides critical insights into the factors shaping vaccination decisions in an era of increasing skepticism.

A central focus of my research program investigates vaccine hesitancy—the complex phenomenon of skepticism about vaccine safety, efficacy, and necessity. My work explores how hesitancy manifests across different populations, including seniors considering RSV vaccination, parents making decisions about childhood immunizations, and pet owners navigating veterinary recommendations. The research identifies key correlates of hesitancy including trust in healthcare providers, information sources, political attitudes, and demographic characteristics, while also examining potential spillover effects between human and animal vaccination attitudes.

Beyond hesitancy, my research program addresses vaccination policy and public attitudes toward vaccination requirements and mandates. I have examined public support for vaccination mandates in K-12 education, including both traditional vaccines and COVID-19 immunizations, as well as support for pet vaccination requirements. The research also investigates vaccination service delivery in novel settings, particularly school-based health centers, assessing public attitudes about providing various vaccination services to students. Collectively, this work informs policymakers, healthcare providers, and public health officials seeking to maintain high immunization rates and prevent disease outbreaks.