Health Information and Trust

This volume examines how the U.S. government’s cancellation of $766 million in contracts with Moderna to develop pandemic flu vaccines, along with unfounded claims by new vaccine advisors, has contributed to the spread of persistent myths about the safety of mRNA technology. It also explores how shifting COVID-19 vaccine guidance and false claims are re-igniting misleading narratives about miscarriage. Lastly, it analyzes how reactions to a Supreme Court ruling upholding a state ban on gender-affirming care for minors further misconceptions and inflammatory language.

As the Trump administration overhauls government health agencies, partisan trust in these agencies on vaccines has shifted and few express confidence in their ability to carry out key tasks. Most adults are confident in the safety of routine vaccines, but the COVID-19 vaccines remain polarizing with many uncertain about false claims regarding mRNA technology.