The Importance of Long-term Confidence in Vaccines and Immunization Programs

A Conversation with Dr. Lance Rodewald

Abstract

How can health communication sustain public vaccine confidence and adapt global frameworks to local social realities? On July 18, 2026, during the MHM2026 conference at Peking University, we interviewed Dr. Lance Rodewald, Senior Advisor for National Immunization Programs at China CDC. Drawing on decades of experience at the U.S. CDC, WHO China Office and China’s national immunization program, Dr. Rodewald identifies confidence as the core of the 3C model and holds that two-way listening outweighs one-way advocacy in effective health communication. In this exclusive interview, he discusses China’s immunization communication strengths, non-program vaccine uptake, misinformation responses, and research advice for young scholars.