Despite the success of vaccines, global immunisation coverage has been on a downward trend in recent years. Similarly, in South Africa a sharp increase in the number of zero-dose children has been observed. While vaccine hesitancy is not a new phenomenon, it has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. To achieve the targets of Immunization Agenda 2030 it is essential to address vaccine hesitancy through effective communication and behaviour change interventions. While healthcare providers can play a critical role in engaging hesitant individuals, a clear understanding of the drivers of vaccination behaviour and the factors underlying declining vaccine confidence is necessary. This session proposes a practical, evidence-informed vaccine communication ‘standard operating procedure’ to support South African healthcare providers in their daily practice.