Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18 (Suppl. 5) 37-41 ABSTRACT: Population protection through vaccination against infectious diseases has been one of the major achievements of public health care. The recent H1N1 influenza virus pandemic reopened the discussion on the strategic arrangements for vaccination in the face of spreading infection. Even though vaccination against a pandemic strain is considered to be one of the most effective countermeasures for protecting individuals, the general acceptance of H1N1 influenza vaccination has been low worldwide. The understanding of the potential health risks of the novel influenza A (H1N1) strain, the distrust of vaccinations and concerns about vaccine safety are the main reasons reported by the public for not undergoing vaccination. Concern about vaccine safety and distrust of health authorities are the commonest reasons given for low compliance with vaccination by healthcare workers. Better communication strategies to improve vaccination acceptance by the general population and by healthcare workers are required