The Ministry of Health’s recent push for walk-in vaccination clinics during Vaccination Week, led by Kim Wilson, strikes a familiar chord. It emphasises the usual themes: immunisation, shared responsibility, expanding access to vaccinations, dispelling misinformation. While these points matter, they fail to touch the heart of a deeper issue, which is the lingering erosion of public trust that took root during the Covid-19 crisis.

Phrases such as “Your choice makes a difference” are meant to encourage. However, many feel disconnected from the lived reality of being overlooked or confused throughout a period marked by inconsistent messaging and shifting protocols. Rebuilding confidence in public health requires more than repeating slogans. It demands openness, honesty and a willingness to be accountable.

The health minister referenced the effectiveness of vaccines against 11 out of 30 targeted diseases. That is a positive statistic, but it was offered without any recognition of the past breakdowns in communication or the safety concerns that caused hesitation during the pandemic. When official guidance kept changing from masking to quarantine measures — many times without sharing credible data to support those changes — Bermudians were left questioning what, or whom, to trust. And some are still waiting for the Government to acknowledge those uncertainties or address their concerns.

Encouraging adolescent HPV vaccination and countering misinformation are important goals. But if the ministry fails to directly address why misinformation gained traction in the first place, such as the lack of data-driven, culturally sensitive and transparent communication, those efforts will lose effectiveness. When people feel ignored or that their doubts are dismissed outright, they tend to pull away rather than engage.

Ms Wilson also stated that sharing accurate information will help build trust. In theory, yes. But in practice, what is being done differently? Are there new methods in place to make information more relatable, more interactive and more reflective of public concerns? Trust is not something you broadcast. It has to be nurtured in conversation, through dialogue rather than a monologue.

This has nothing to do with rejecting vaccines. It is about demanding better from the system that promotes them. Bermuda needs a health ministry that is as committed to listening as it is to advising. One that is prepared to admit past mistakes and partner with communities to move forward.

If the aim is to genuinely rebuild public confidence, slogans will not achieve that goal alone. What is needed is a renewed approach grounded in participation and humility. We suggest starting with a few key actions:

• Host open forums in collaboration with grassroots groups

• Release transparent evaluations of past vaccination efforts and what was learnt

• Create intergenerational advisory panels to include youth and elders

• Publicly acknowledge missteps made during the pandemic and commit to doing better

A stronger, healthier Bermuda will be built not on polished messaging but on shared truth, trust and collaboration.

• Eugene Dean is a trustee of the Collective Action Solidarity Trust