Heidi Larson

American anthropologist and academic

Heidi Larson at the World Economic Forum

Heidi J. Larson is an American anthropologist and academic known for her work in the field of vaccine hesitancy and public health. She is the founding director of the Vaccine Confidence Project and a professor of anthropology, risk, and decision science at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

Early life and education

Heidi Larson was born in the United States. She pursued her undergraduate studies in anthropology and later obtained a Ph.D. in the same field. Her academic journey was marked by a keen interest in understanding the cultural and social dimensions of health and medicine.

Career

Larson's career has been dedicated to addressing the challenges of vaccine hesitancy and misinformation. She has worked with various international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), focusing on improving public trust in vaccines.

Vaccine Confidence Project

In 2010, Larson founded the Vaccine Confidence Project, a research group that monitors public confidence in immunization programs worldwide. The project aims to identify and address concerns about vaccines, providing insights into the social and political factors that influence vaccine uptake.

Academic contributions

As a professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Larson has contributed significantly to the academic discourse on vaccine confidence. Her research explores the intersection of anthropology, risk communication, and public health, providing a comprehensive understanding of how cultural beliefs and social dynamics impact vaccine acceptance.

Publications and media

Larson has authored numerous articles and books on vaccine hesitancy and public health. Her work is widely cited in academic circles and has been featured in various media outlets. She is a sought-after speaker at international conferences and has been involved in several high-profile public health campaigns.

Awards and recognition

Heidi Larson's contributions to public health have been recognized with several awards and honors. She has been acknowledged for her innovative approach to addressing vaccine hesitancy and her efforts to improve global health outcomes.

Related pages

• Vaccine hesitancy
• Vaccine Confidence Project
• Anthropology
• Public health