
Epidemiology & Health Data Insights (eISSN 3080-8111) is an international, open-access, peer-reviewed journal that advances epidemiology by integrating health data science. It fosters multidisciplinary collaboration to address global health challenges through evidence-based research, promoting equity and guiding healthcare policy. The journal covers a wide range of topics including disease surveillance, predictive modeling, public health interventions, and big data applications, with an editorial team of experts in epidemiology, biostatistics, and public health.
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CURRENT ISSUE
Volume 1, Issue 2, 2025
(Ongoing)
Methods: A qualitative approach was employed, combining a desk review of national immunization policies and statistical reports with 27 in-depth interviews conducted in 2021–2022. Participants included healthcare providers and public health experts across urban and rural regions of Kazakhstan. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns in the data. Relevant national regulations were also reviewed and compared with international standards.
Results: Thematic analysis revealed four major areas of concern: (1) inconsistencies in pre-vaccination monitoring practices, (2) variability in post-vaccination follow-up procedures, (3) divergent roles and responsibilities among stakeholders in granting medical exemptions, and (4) limitations in surveillance and data systems for tracking and verifying exemptions. Findings suggest that physician over-cautiousness, legal insecurity, parental pressure, and inconsistent training are key drivers of unnecessary exemptions. The overdiagnosis of precautionary conditions—particularly by specialists such as neurologists—further contributes to false contraindications. These practices erode vaccine confidence and create barriers to timely immunization.
Conclusion: Addressing the growing problem of unwarranted medical exemptions requires policy reform, clearer clinical guidelines, enhanced physician training, and improved digital monitoring systems. Strengthening these areas is essential for restoring public trust, reducing unjustified exemptions, and ensuring high vaccination coverage in Kazakhstan.