Can ChatGPT Counter Vaccine Hesitancy? An Evaluation of ChatGPT’s Responses to Simulated Queries from the General Public

Background: Vaccines have eradicated deadly diseases, yet vaccine hesitancy persists, leading to reduced uptake. Some individuals, mistrustful of healthcare providers, may turn to tools like ChatGPT for information. We evaluated ChatGPT’s responses to common vaccine hesitancy questions. Methods: Infectious disease physicians compiled 15 frequently encountered questions relating to vaccine hesitancy, focusing on concerns about efficacy, adverse effects, and cultural or religious issues, and submitted them to ChatGPT on 18 October 2023. Two independent physicians assessed the responses for factual accuracy and alignment with recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Results: A representative selection of responses is shown. ChatGPT consistently provided fact-based, reassuring responses. For instance, it accurately addressed the benefits of male HPV vaccination; however, it failed to consider ACIP’s age-specific recommendations and individual sexual health factors. While correcting mRNA vaccine misconceptions, it did not mention the availability of non-mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. It also lacked depth in discussing religious objections, deferring users to faith leaders and providers. Conclusions: ChatGPT provides generally accurate information and may be a useful adjunct in addressing vaccine hesitancy. With refinement, it could complement public health efforts to improve vaccine confidence and counter misinformation.