Navigating the nexus of COVID-19 vaccination strategies: insights beyond the needle

The COVID-19 pandemic has wrought global disruptions, impacting societies and economies significantly, while vaccine hesitancy remains a pressing concern. This paper introduces a framework for analyzing vaccination decision-making, emphasizing the roles of perceived costs and social influences. To craft effective policies, comprehending individuals' cost perceptions is essential. Social imitation also plays a role in vaccination choices, as individuals often emulate their social circles, potentially altering the optimal decision. The established framework demonstrates that COVID-19 policies successfully encouraged vaccination through cost-related strategies. However, similar challenges may emerge in future crises. Therefore, establishing continual information dissemination and educational programs targeting vaccine hesitancy is critical. By consistently addressing this hesitancy, authorities can navigate potential obstacles and bolster their responses to future health emergencies.