Social Networks as Study Object: Considerations about the Vaccine Passport

Abstract

Purpose: This article aims to analyze the response of the academic community and the general population of the municipality of Dourados, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, to the demands imposed by public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on vaccination strategies. Theoretical framework: The research problematizes the community-vaccine relationship in the context of the beginning of the vaccination process against COVID-19. Method/design/approach: Involved collecting comments on publications related to the topic on social network websites, such as Instagram and Facebook, from the Federal University of Grande Dourados (UFGD) and the City Hall of Dourados. Results and discussion: 75 publications were selected, totaling 824 comments, and the data were categorized into different types of comments, such as favorable or contrary to the measures to combat COVID-19, doubts, criticism not related to the vaccine, among others. Results reveal the existence of different positions and opinions in relation to vaccination and measures to combat the pandemic, highlighting the polarization and influence of factors such as trust, risk perception and individual freedom. Research implications: No social network analyzes were found in the Dourados region, therefore a pioneering study. Originality value: The study underscores the importance of promoting open dialogue, combating misinformation, and promoting science as a basis for decision-making in public health.