The Impact of Social Media on Vaccine-Related Legislation Following Measles Outbreaks

Abstract

Introduction: Vaccine exemptions are on the rise in many states. Exemptions to vaccine requirements can lead to a breakdown in herd immunity, allowing viruses like measles to propagate easily through a population. In response to recent measles outbreaks, many states have passed vaccine-related legislation.

Methods: This study seeks to describe the discourse on social media related to state’s vaccine-related legislation, and how it may influence the policy cycle. Specifically, social media data were retrospectively collected from four states: California, New York, Arizona and Texas to understand the interplay between public discourse on X and the outcome of each bill. Analyses were performed to determine if sentiment can be used to predict recent vaccine-related legislation and how legislators interact with the general public via X.

Results: Sentiment analysis on discussion of vaccine-related legislation during the specified policy window, and a chi-squared analysis revealed that public sentiment as measured on X was not related to the outcome of the proposed legislation.

Discussion: It seems that X is not a platform that influences the policy cycle regarding vaccine-related legislation, particularly the formulation stage where stakeholders can communicate alternative solutions

Conclusion: While public sentiment on X does not seem to influence the outcome of vaccine-related legislation, it is interesting to further explore what actions can be taken by the general public that will substantially influence the outcome of legislation important to stakeholders.