Covid-19 vaccines on TikTok in Brazil

ABSrRA epsilon r ! In this article, we examine the production of videos about vaccines on TikTok in Brazil. By analyzing the hashtags related to the vaccine, we identified 612 videos that covered the topic of vaccines on this platform from May 2020 to September 2022. Using thematic analysis and content analysis, we examined the different themes, positions, forms of expression, legitimized actors, and both audio and visual resources in the production of vaccine-related content on this platform. Based on our analysis, we found a positive tone in just over half of the videos about vaccines, with neutral or ambiguous positions on the topic strongly represented. In addition, we found that TikTok is used to share personal vaccination experiences, create sketches depicting supposed side effects of vaccines, celebrate the start of immunization, and provide information about vaccine efficacy and use. Furthermore, we noted a politicization of the content related to COVID-19 vaccination on the platform, reflecting the political disputes that have characterized the pandemic in Brazil. In summary, TikTok serves as a platform to express experiences and perceptions related to vaccination, but it also facilitates the dissemination of content that approaches the topic in a humorous tone, which can lead to the spread of fears and negative perceptions regarding vaccines.