Economic and behavioral factors in influenza vaccine preference

Influenza is a significant respiratory virus that causes serious symptoms in individuals. Globally, approximately 1 billion people are infected with the influenza virus each year. Additionally, this virus disrupts the work and education lives of millions of people annually. Historically, influenza-related epidemics have led to the deaths of millions and caused severe economic losses. Compared to other respiratory diseases, this virus type has a higher risk of outbreaks and is the only respiratory virus with the potential to create a pandemic. Although influenza vaccines, the most effective method against the flu, have been in use for about 100 years, irrationality in vaccine purchasing decisions persists both in Turkey and worldwide. This study aims to examine the economic and behavioral factors that influence individuals' influenza vaccine purchasing decisions. It is believed that identifying the economic and behavioral factors affecting vaccine purchasing decisions in countries experiencing rapid epidemiological transitions, such as Turkey, will provide both economic and social gains. Within the scope of the study, a survey was conducted among adult individuals residing in Erzurum province, and the data obtained were analyzed using logit and probit models. According to the study results, age and income level are important variables affecting the decision to purchase influenza vaccines. In addition, the perceived benefit of the vaccine, individuals' degree of sacrifice, degree of risk aversion, degree of time preference, and the presence of status quo bias are important behavioral variables affecting individuals' purchasing decisions. This study reveals that behavioral economics factors are also effective in influenza vaccine purchasing decisions. This shows that behavioral economics factors, in addition to traditional economic factors, are a powerful tool in explaining consumer decisions. It is believed that the results of the study will guide policymakers in preventing infectious diseases and protecting public health.