December 17, 2025
RED FM News Desk
A new survey reveals that while nearly three-quarters of Canadians maintain confidence in vaccines, skepticism has notably increased over the last five years.
According to the study conducted by Leger Healthcare, 74% of respondents stated they are either “very confident” (42%) or “somewhat confident” (32%) in the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. However, a significant shift in public sentiment is emerging, as approximately one-quarter of those surveyed reported being less confident now than they were in previous years.
The data highlights a clear generational divide regarding vaccine outlooks. Seniors aged 65 and older remain the most enthusiastic demographic, expressing the highest levels of trust in vaccination and the health information provided to them. In contrast, younger Canadians are leading the trend in rising skepticism; 30% of respondents aged 18 to 34 reported a measurable decline in their trust. The survey specifically noted that the highest levels of hesitancy are currently directed toward COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines.
Healthcare providers surveyed identified several primary drivers behind this growing hesitancy. Chief among them are concerns regarding vaccine safety (61%), the spread of misinformation by social media influencers, and a general mistrust of public institutions. These factors have created a complex environment for health professionals attempting to maintain high immunization rates across the country.
For the general public, the decision to get vaccinated is heavily influenced by their perception of risk and benefit. The survey found that the most significant motivators for vaccination include the perceived effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing severe illness (63%), the fear of death or severe symptoms from a virus (60%), general vaccine safety (54%), and the individual’s perceived likelihood of being exposed to a virus (54%).
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