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Knights F, Carter J, Deal A, Crawshaw A, Bouaddi O, Sanchez-Clemente N, Seedat F, Vanderslott S, Eagan R, Holt DE, Ciftci Y, Orcutt M, Seale H, Severoni S, Hargreaves S. Strengthening life-course immunisation in migrant populations: access, equity, and inclusion. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2024; 41:100806. [PMID: 39119098 PMCID: PMC11306209 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2023.100806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Adult and adolescent migrants worldwide, and those arriving in Europe, are an under-immunised group for routine vaccinations due to missed childhood vaccines and doses in their countries of origin, and their subsequent marginalisation from health and vaccination systems. Declining population-level coverage for routine vaccines across Europe, which has accelerated post-pandemic, places these and other under-immunised populations at even greater risk of vaccine-preventable diseases. However, despite clear guidelines around the importance of delivering 'catch-up' vaccination throughout the life-course, migrants are rarely effectively incorporated into routine vaccination programmes on arrival to Europe. These populations have subsequently been involved in outbreaks, including measles and diphtheria, and are missing opportunities to receive more recently introduced vaccines such as HPV to align them with European vaccine schedules. WHO's new Immunization Agenda 2030 places a renewed emphasis on equitable access to vaccine systems and integrating catch-up vaccination for missed vaccines and doses throughout the life-course. In addition, lessons learned and innovations from the COVID-19 pandemic merit further consideration in the design and delivery of more inclusive vaccination programmes. We describe current gaps in policy and practice around life-course vaccination in migrant populations, key factors that drive low vaccine uptake and coverage, and explore the benefits of participatory approaches to designing and delivering interventions with impacted communities, to define new strategies to advance vaccine equity across the Region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Knights
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
| | - Jessica Carter
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
| | - Anna Deal
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
| | - Alison Crawshaw
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
| | - Oumnia Bouaddi
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- International School of Public Health, Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
- Mohammed VI Center for Research and Innovation, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Nuria Sanchez-Clemente
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
| | - Farah Seedat
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
| | - Sam Vanderslott
- Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Rachel Eagan
- The Vaccine Confidence Project, LSHTM, London, UK
| | | | - Yusuf Ciftci
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
| | - Miriam Orcutt
- The Health and Migration Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Holly Seale
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Santino Severoni
- The Health and Migration Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sally Hargreaves
- The Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- The Lancet Migration European Regional Hub, UK
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Sentell T, Finn J, Tolentino NK, Birnie KK, Phillips MM. Public Health Communication to Build Equity: 10 Best Practice Pandemic Insights and Examples from Hawai'i. HAWAI'I JOURNAL OF HEALTH & SOCIAL WELFARE 2024; 83:168-172. [PMID: 38855710 PMCID: PMC11161208 DOI: 10.62547/hhzj2325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Tetine Sentell
- Office of Public Health Studies, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI (TS, JF, MMP)
| | - Julia Finn
- Office of Public Health Studies, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI (TS, JF, MMP)
| | | | | | - Michael M Phillips
- Office of Public Health Studies, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI (TS, JF, MMP)
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Crawshaw AF, Goldsmith LP, Deal A, Carter J, Knights F, Seedat F, Lau K, Hayward SE, Yong J, Fyle D, Aspray N, Iwami M, Ciftci Y, Wurie F, Majeed A, Forster AS, Hargreaves S. Driving delivery and uptake of catch-up vaccination among adolescent and adult migrants in UK general practice: a mixed methods pilot study. BMC Med 2024; 22:186. [PMID: 38702767 PMCID: PMC11068568 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03378-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migrants in the UK and Europe face vulnerability to vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) due to missed childhood vaccines and doses and marginalisation from health systems. Ensuring migrants receive catch-up vaccinations, including MMR, Td/IPV, MenACWY, and HPV, is essential to align them with UK and European vaccination schedules and ultimately reduce morbidity and mortality. However, recent evidence highlights poor awareness and implementation of catch-up vaccination guidelines by UK primary care staff, requiring novel approaches to strengthen the primary care pathway. METHODS The 'Vacc on Track' study (May 2021-September 2022) aimed to measure under-vaccination rates among migrants in UK primary care and establish new referral pathways for catch-up vaccination. Participants included migrants aged 16 or older, born outside of Western Europe, North America, Australia, or New Zealand, in two London boroughs. Quantitative data on vaccination history, referral, uptake, and sociodemographic factors were collected, with practice nurses prompted to deliver catch-up vaccinations following UK guidelines. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with staff and migrants explored views on delivering catch-up vaccination, including barriers, facilitators, and opportunities. Data were analysed using STATA12 and NVivo 12. RESULTS Results from 57 migrants presenting to study sites from 18 countries (mean age 41 [SD 7.2] years; 62% female; mean 11.3 [SD 9.1] years in UK) over a minimum of 6 months of follow-up revealed significant catch-up vaccination needs, particularly for MMR (49 [86%] required catch-up vaccination) and Td/IPV (50 [88%]). Fifty-three (93%) participants were referred for any catch-up vaccination, but completion of courses was low (6 [12%] for Td/IPV and 33 [64%] for MMR), suggesting individual and systemic barriers. Qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 39) with adult migrants highlighted the lack of systems currently in place in the UK to offer catch-up vaccination to migrants on arrival and the need for health-care provider skills and knowledge of catch-up vaccination to be improved. Focus group discussions and interviews with practice staff (n = 32) identified limited appointment/follow-up time, staff knowledge gaps, inadequate engagement routes, and low incentivisation as challenges that will need to be addressed. However, they underscored the potential of staff champions, trust-building mechanisms, and community-based approaches to strengthen catch-up vaccination uptake among migrants. CONCLUSIONS Given the significant catch-up vaccination needs of migrants in our sample, and the current barriers to driving uptake identified, our findings suggest it will be important to explore this public health issue further, potentially through a larger study or trial. Strengthening existing pathways, staff capacity and knowledge in primary care, alongside implementing new strategies centred on cultural competence and building trust with migrant communities will be important focus areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison F Crawshaw
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Lucy P Goldsmith
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Anna Deal
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jessica Carter
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Felicity Knights
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Farah Seedat
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Karen Lau
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sally E Hayward
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Joanna Yong
- NHS North Central London Research Network (NoCLoR) and Clinical Research Network (CRN) North Thames, London, UK
| | - Desiree Fyle
- NHS North Central London Research Network (NoCLoR) and Clinical Research Network (CRN) North Thames, London, UK
| | - Nathaniel Aspray
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Michiyo Iwami
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Yusuf Ciftci
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Fatima Wurie
- Addiction and Inclusion Directorate, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department of Health and Social Care, 39 Victoria Street, London, SW1H 0EU, UK
| | - Azeem Majeed
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Sally Hargreaves
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK.
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Marcelin JR, Hicks LA, Evans CD, Wiley Z, Kalu IC, Abdul-Mutakabbir JC. Advancing health equity through action in antimicrobial stewardship and healthcare epidemiology. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2024; 45:412-419. [PMID: 38351853 PMCID: PMC11318565 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2024.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine R. Marcelin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Lauri A. Hicks
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Christopher D. Evans
- Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Program, Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Zanthia Wiley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ibukunoluwa C. Kalu
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jacinda C. Abdul-Mutakabbir
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Division of the Black Diaspora and African American Studies, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
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Ullah N, Martin S, Poduval S. A Snapshot of COVID-19 Vaccine Discourse Related to Ethnic Minority Communities in the United Kingdom Between January and April 2022: Mixed Methods Analysis. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e51152. [PMID: 38530334 DOI: 10.2196/51152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing literature highlights the role of social media as a key source of information for the public during the COVID-19 pandemic and its influence on vaccination attempts. Yet there is little research exploring its role in the public discourse specifically among ethnic minority communities, who have the highest rates of vaccine hesitancy (delay or refusal of vaccination despite availability of services). OBJECTIVE This study aims to understand the discourse related to minority communities on social media platforms Twitter and YouTube. METHODS Social media data from the United Kingdom was extracted from Twitter and YouTube using the software Netlytics and YouTube Data Tools to provide a "snapshot" of the discourse between January and April 2022. A mixed method approach was used where qualitative data were contextualized into codes. Network analysis was applied to provide insight into the most frequent and weighted keywords and topics of conversations. RESULTS A total of 260 tweets and 156 comments from 4 YouTube videos were included in our analysis. Our data suggests that the most popular topics of conversation during the period sampled were related to communication strategies adopted during the booster vaccine rollout. These were noted to be divisive in nature and linked to wider conversations around racism and historical mistrust toward institutions. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests a shift in narrative from concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine itself, toward the strategies used in vaccination implementation, in particular the targeting of ethnic minority groups through vaccination campaigns. The implications for public health communication during crisis management in a pandemic context include acknowledging wider experiences of discrimination when addressing ethnic minority communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazifa Ullah
- Research Department of Primary Care & Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sam Martin
- Vaccines and Society Unit, Oxford Vaccine Group, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Shoba Poduval
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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González-Salinas AI, Andrade EL, Abroms LC, Gómez K, Favetto C, Gómez VM, Collins KK. Latino Parents' Reactions to and Engagement With a Facebook Group-Based COVID-19 Vaccine Promotion Intervention: Mixed Methods Pilot Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e51331. [PMID: 38483457 PMCID: PMC10979334 DOI: 10.2196/51331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Misinformation in Spanish on social media platforms has contributed to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Latino parents. Brigada Digital de Salud was established to disseminate credible, science-based information about COVID-19 in Spanish on social media. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess participants' reactions to and engagement with Brigada Digital content that sought to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake among US Latino parents and their children. METHODS We conducted a 5-week intervention in a private, moderator-led Facebook (Meta Platforms, Inc) group with Spanish-speaking Latino parents of children aged ≤18 years (N=55). The intervention participants received 3 to 4 daily Brigada Digital posts and were encouraged to discuss the covered topics through comments and polls. To assess participants' exposure, reactions, and engagement, we used participants' responses to a web-based survey administered at 2 time points (baseline and after 5 weeks) and Facebook analytics to calculate the average number of participant views, reactions, and comments. Descriptive statistics were assessed for quantitative survey items, qualitative responses were thematically analyzed, and quotes were selected to illustrate the themes. RESULTS Overall, 101 posts were published. Most participants reported visiting the group 1 to 3 times (22/55, 40%) or 4 to 6 (18/55, 33%) times per week and viewing 1 to 2 (23/55, 42%) or 3 to 4 (16/55, 29%) posts per day. Facebook analytics validated this exposure, with 36 views per participant on average. The participants reacted positively to the intervention. Most participants found the content informative and trustworthy (49/55, 89%), easy to understand, and presented in an interesting manner. The participants thought that the moderators were well informed (51/55, 93%) and helpful (50/55, 91%) and praised them for being empathic and responsive. The participants viewed the group environment as welcoming and group members as friendly (45/55, 82%) and supportive (19/55, 35%). The 3 most useful topics for participants were the safety and efficacy of adult COVID-19 vaccines (29/55, 53%), understanding child risk levels (29/55, 53%), and the science behind COVID-19 (24/55, 44%). The preferred formats were educational posts that could be read (38/55, 69%) and videos, including expert (28/55, 51%) and instructional (26/55, 47%) interviews. Regarding engagement, most participants self-reported reacting to posts 1 to 2 (16/55, 29%) or 3 to 4 (15/55, 27%) times per week and commenting on posts 1 to 2 (16/55, 29%) or <1 (20/55, 36%) time per week. This engagement level was validated by analytics, with 10.6 reactions and 3 comments per participant, on average, during the 5 weeks. Participants recommended more opportunities for engagement, such as interacting with the moderators in real time. CONCLUSIONS With adequate intervention exposure and engagement and overall positive participant reactions, the findings highlight the promise of this digital approach for COVID-19 vaccine-related health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kaitlyn Gómez
- California State University, Fullerton, CA, United States
| | - Carla Favetto
- George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
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Koku EF, Johnson-Yengbeh N, Muhr A. Addressing COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Uptake Among African Immigrants: Lessons from a Community-Based Outreach Program. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-01947-9. [PMID: 38443740 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-01947-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
In 2021, the African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA) implemented a community-based vaccine education and outreach program to decrease hesitancy and increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake among African immigrants in Philadelphia. The program had three components: (1) tailored messaging on the benefits of vaccines by trusted community health navigators in familiar languages/dialects, (2) use of educational/tabling events, and (3) establishment of a vaccine clinic in community settings. Using secondary data analysis, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and a self-administered survey, we explored (i) the impact and effectiveness of the outreach program and extent of vaccine uptake, (ii) African immigrants' beliefs about the COVID-19 pandemic and the vaccine, and (iii) barriers and facilitators of vaccine knowledge, uptake, and hesitancy. Our analysis showed that ACANA's outreach program was effective in addressing several cultural, logistic, and systematic barriers to vaccine uptake. The program distributed 2000 educational/informational flyers, reached 3000 community members via social media campaigns, and an additional 2320 through other person-to-person outreach events. The program was effective and resulted in the vaccination of 1265 community members over the course of the outreach. The impact of this outreach underscores the critical role of community-based organizations in addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and increasing vaccine uptake in underserved and minority communities. The paper concludes with suggestions and recommendations for using community-based outreach programs to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake and decrease hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel F Koku
- Department of Sociology, Drexel University, 3201 Arch Street, Room 288, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Nettie Johnson-Yengbeh
- Health Department, African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA), 5530 Chester Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19143, USA
| | - Ava Muhr
- Health Department, African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA), 5530 Chester Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19143, USA
- School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, 15a George Square, EH8 9LD, Edinburgh, UK
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Blaser C, Gautier L, Brousseau É, Auger N, Frohlich KL. Inequality in COVID-19 mortality in Quebec associated with neighbourhood-level vulnerability domains. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SANTE PUBLIQUE 2024; 115:53-66. [PMID: 38100050 PMCID: PMC10868572 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-023-00829-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We measured disparities in COVID-19 mortality associated with increasing vulnerability to severe outcomes of infectious disease at the neighbourhood level to identify domains for prioritization of public interventions. METHODS In this retrospective ecological study, we calculated COVID-19 mortality rate ratios (RR) comparing neighbourhoods with the greatest vulnerability relative to lowest vulnerability using the five domains from the COVID-19 vulnerability index for Quebec using hospital data from the first year of the pandemic and vulnerability levels from 13,182 neighbourhoods. We estimated the attributable fraction to assess disparities in COVID-19 mortality associated with vulnerability. Domains covered biological susceptibility, sociocultural characteristics, socioeconomic characteristics, and indoor and outdoor risk factors for exposure to SARS-CoV-2. RESULTS Vulnerable neighbourhoods accounted for 60.7% of COVID-19 deaths between March 2020 and February 2021. Neighbourhoods with biological susceptibility accounted for 46.1% and indoor exposure for 44.6% of deaths. Neighbourhoods with socioeconomic vulnerability experienced 23.5%, outdoor exposure 14.6%, and sociocultural vulnerability 9.0% of deaths. Neighbourhoods with high relative vulnerability had 4.66 times greater risk of COVID-19 mortality compared with those with low vulnerability (95%CI 3.82-5.67). High vulnerability in the biological (RR 3.33; 95%CI 2.71-4.09), sociocultural (RR 1.50; 95%CI 1.27-1.77), socioeconomic (RR 2.08; 95%CI 1.75-2.48), and indoor (RR 3.21; 95%CI 2.74-3.76) exposure domains were associated with elevated risks of mortality compared with the least vulnerable neighbourhoods. Outdoor exposure was unassociated with mortality (RR 1.17; 95%CI 0.96-2.43). CONCLUSION Public intervention to protect vulnerable populations should be adapted to focus on domains most associated with COVID-19 mortality to ensure addressing local needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Blaser
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - Lara Gautier
- Department of Management, Evaluation and Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Émilie Brousseau
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Nathalie Auger
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Katherine L Frohlich
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Portela V, Hamwi S, Oliveira Martins MR. Exploring refugees' health care access in times of COVID-19: a quantitative study in the Lisbon region, Portugal. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1337299. [PMID: 38347925 PMCID: PMC10859453 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1337299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background To address the health needs of refugees, health services must be culturally competent and facilitate this population's access to health care, especially in a context prone to the amplification of social inequities, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, few quantitative studies exist in the European Union, and to the extent of our knowledge, there are no published quantitative studies exploring refugees' access to health care during the pandemic in Portugal. The objective of this study is to describe the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of refugees living in Lisbon and to explore their healthcare access patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive, and quantitative study from May to November 2022. Using Levesque' s theory on health care access, we designed and applied a 38-item questionnaire through face-to-face interviews with refugees living in Lisbon for at least 12 months, and used descriptive statistics to characterize sociodemographic and healthcare access profiles during the pandemic. Results The mean age of the 36 recruited refugees was 35 years (SD = 10.24), the majority were male (56%), married (72%), had at least a secondary education (69%), were unemployed (77.8%), and had a median length of stay in Portugal of 17 months (IQR = 45). All were registered in a primary care center, and 94% used healthcare services during the pandemic. The majority never tested positive for the coronavirus (58%) and one out of the positive was admitted to hospital due to severe COVID-19. A total of 97% received COVID-19 vaccination, of which 69% had an incomplete schedule. A quarter of the participants did not have access to information about COVID-19 in a language they understood, and although 97% needed health care during the pandemic, more than half (63%) did not seek it because of structural and cultural barriers. Half of the respondents had difficulty getting medical advice by phone or email, and 39.4% could not afford a medical examination or treatment. Only 18.2% sought counseling services. A total of 58.8% of the participants felt like healthcare professionals did not always show respect towards their culture, and 64.7% reported that healthcare professionals did not always discuss treatment options with them. Conclusion This study's findings highlight the need to endow inclusive communication, cultural competency, and patient involvement in health care, alongside improving the socioeconomic condition of refugees. Identified population characteristics and barriers to health care access by refugees in this study may inform future research on the health care needs of refugees in Portugal and ultimately assist in the devising of strategies to reduce inequalities in health care access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Portela
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sousan Hamwi
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria R. Oliveira Martins
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Zhang CX, Bankhead C, Quigley MA, Kwok CH, Carson C. Ethnic inequities in routine childhood vaccinations in England 2006-2021: an observational cohort study using electronic health records. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 65:102281. [PMID: 37965428 PMCID: PMC10641103 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Population groups that are underserved by England's childhood vaccination programme must be identified to address the country's declining vaccination coverage. We examined routine childhood vaccination coverage in England by maternal ethnicity between 2006 and 2021. Methods We created first, second and fifth birthday cohorts using mother-child linked electronic health records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) Aurum. After validation against the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and National Health Service England (NHSE) annual statistical reports, we described vaccination coverage for each vaccine by ethnicity and year. We used modified Poisson regression to analyse the effect of ethnicity on receiving the primary and full course of each vaccine. Findings Up to 1,170,804 children born after 1 April 2006 were included in the first birthday cohort, reducing to 645,492 by the fifth birthday. Children were followed up until 31 March 2021 at the latest. Children born to mothers in 9 minority ethnic groups and those of unknown ethnicity had lower vaccination coverage (61.3-97.5%) than the White British group (79.9-97.8%) for all vaccines. Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Any other Asian background, and White and Asian ethnic groups had similar vaccination coverage to the White British group (above 90% for most vaccines in most years). Inequities particularly affected the Caribbean group (e.g. 61% coverage for the 6/5/4-in-1 full course in 2020-21 by children's fifth birthday; RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.6-0.74 compared with the White British group) and Any other Black, African and Caribbean background (e.g. coverage 68% for the MMR primary course in 2020-21; RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.64-0.78). These inequities widened over the study period. For example, the absolute difference in coverage between the Caribbean and White British groups for the full course of MMR increased from 12% in 2011-12 to 22% in 2019-20. These inequities remained even after accounting for sociodemographic, maternal and birth related factors, and also widened from primary course to full course. Interpretation Our findings suggest that urgent policy action is needed to address the ethnic inequities throughout England's routine childhood vaccination programme, which have been worsening over time. Funding University of Oxford Clarendon Fund, St Cross College and Nuffield Department of Population Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire X. Zhang
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Clare Bankhead
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Maria A. Quigley
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Chun Hei Kwok
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Carson
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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11
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Charania NA, Kirkpatrick L, Paynter J. Paediatric COVID-19 vaccination coverage and associated factors among migrant and non-migrant children aged 5-11 years in Aotearoa New Zealand: A population-level retrospective cohort study. Aust N Z J Public Health 2023; 47:100086. [PMID: 37729755 DOI: 10.1016/j.anzjph.2023.100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Children with migrant and refugee backgrounds may experience immunisation inequities due to barriers to accessing and accepting vaccines. In Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ), national reporting can mask inequities in coverage by migration background. This study explored paediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake among children with migrant and refugee backgrounds. METHODS This population-level retrospective cohort study compared rates and determinants of paediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake as of July 2022 amongst migrant and non-migrant children who were aged between 5 and 11 years as of January 2022. Linked de-identified administrative and health data available in Statistics NZ's Integrated Data Infrastructure were used, and univariate and multivariable logistic regression were conducted to determine associations. RESULTS Of the total study population (N = 451,323), 3.5% were overseas-born migrant children, 31.3% were NZ-born migrant children, and 65.3% were NZ-born non-migrant children. Only 50.8% (229,164 out of 451,323) of children had received at least one dose. Migrant children were significantly more likely to have received a COVID-19 vaccination than non-migrant children. Logistic modelling revealed that all factors, including ethnicity, gender, age, family type, household income, deprivation, region, parent COVID-19 vaccination status, and child's previous COVID-19 infection, significantly influenced COVID-19 vaccine uptake. The largest contributing factor was parents' COVID-19 vaccination status. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that NZ's paediatric COVID-19 vaccination programme was able to address logistical and motivational barriers commonly identified amongst migrants and refugees. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH As parents' vaccination status is an important factor in vaccinating their own children, continuous efforts are needed to support confident parental COVID-19 vaccine decision-making. To address social inequities, engagement with marginalised communities to co-design tailored and localised approaches is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A Charania
- Department of Public Health, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand; Migrant and Refugee Health Research Centre, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Linda Kirkpatrick
- New Zealand Work Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Janine Paynter
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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12
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Stimpson JP, Ortega AN. Social media users' perceptions about health mis- and disinformation on social media. HEALTH AFFAIRS SCHOLAR 2023; 1:qxad050. [PMID: 38107206 PMCID: PMC10722559 DOI: 10.1093/haschl/qxad050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
This study used recently released nationally representative data with new measures on health information seeking to estimate the prevalence and predictors of adult social media users' perceptions of health mis- and disinformation on social media. Most adults who use social media perceive some (46%) or a lot (36%) of false or misleading health information on social media, but nearly one-fifth reported either none or a little (18%). More than two-thirds of participants reported that they were unable to assess social media information as true or false (67%). Our study identified certain population groups that might be a focus of future intervention work, such as participants who use social media to make decisions. The perception by social media users that false and misleading health information on social media is highly prevalent may lend greater urgency to mitigate the spread of false or misleading health information that harms public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim P. Stimpson
- Peter O’Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Alexander N. Ortega
- Thompson School of Social Work and Public Health, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, United States
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13
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Ngongalah L, Rapley T, Rankin J, Heslehurst N. Cultural Influences on African Migrant Pregnant and Postnatal Women's Dietary Behaviours and Nutrition Support Needs in the UK. Nutrients 2023; 15:4135. [PMID: 37836419 PMCID: PMC10574463 DOI: 10.3390/nu15194135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Black women in the UK face significantly higher risks of overweight and obesity and adverse pregnancy outcomes compared to women from other ethnic groups. Maternal nutrition plays a pivotal role in influencing the health outcomes of women and their children, especially during preconception and pregnancy. Cultural and environmental factors significantly influence the dietary experiences of African women after migration. This study explored the unique nutrition-related challenges faced by African migrant pregnant and postnatal women in the UK, and their nutrition support needs. Interviews were conducted with 23 African migrant women living in the UK, who were either pregnant or had a pregnancy within the past 3 years. These were analysed thematically, resulting in five overarching themes: food rituals and beliefs, pregnancy cravings, limited access to culturally appropriate food, limited access to culturally appropriate and evidence-based nutritional guidance, and the focus on healthy weight. The study identified challenges that African migrant women face in balancing their cultural heritage with the UK food environment and dietary recommendations, including potential implications on their health and pregnancy outcomes. It emphasised the importance of addressing these challenges through culturally sensitive approaches and tailored interventions, to enable informed decision making and enhance health outcomes for these women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lem Ngongalah
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4AX, UK; (J.R.); (N.H.)
| | - Tim Rapley
- Department of Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7XA, UK;
| | - Judith Rankin
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4AX, UK; (J.R.); (N.H.)
| | - Nicola Heslehurst
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4AX, UK; (J.R.); (N.H.)
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14
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Jawad D, Taki S, Baur L, Rissel C, Mihrshahi S, Ming Wen L. Resources used and trusted regarding child health information by culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia: An online cross-sectional survey. Int J Med Inform 2023; 177:105165. [PMID: 37531718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2023.105165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents' play a proactive role in seeking health information to ensure optimal growth and development for their children. To date, very little is known about the differences between information seeking behaviour for child health and engagement with resources between culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) and non-CALD parents. OBJECTIVE To investigate the differences in resources used and trusted for information related to child health behaviours and engagement with online features among CALD and non-CALD respondents in Australia. METHODS An analysis of a theory informed online cross-sectional survey was conducted using data from 122 CALD and 399 non-CALD parents who had a child younger than 24 months or were currently pregnant in Australia. Descriptive statistics and chi-squared were used to compare the differences, and logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with using health resources. RESULTS The most trusted sources for information reported by respondents were health professionals (76.2 %), websites run by health professionals (59.5 %), and government websites (53.2 %). Social media was significantly more trusted as a source of information for child health behaviours among CALD respondents than non-CALD respondents (odds ratio (OR) 1.92, P = 0.01). In contrast, booklets/ pamphlets and friends were significantly more trusted by non-CALD parents than for CALD parents (OR 0.54, P = 0.02). General search engines were used very frequently among CALD respondents for child health information (39.3 % vs 24.1 %, p = 0.013). Overall, the most common features respondents enjoyed on websites were images (81 %), videos (40.1 %), and discussion forums (39.9 %). CALD respondents significantly favoured videos (p = 0.003) while non-CALD respondents preferred obtaining information through attachments (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Despite parents' reporting health professionals, websites run by health professionals, and government websites as trustworthy, general search engines and social media were still the most frequently used information source for parents with young children. Credible resources parents deem as trustworthy should take into account effective and engaging means of disseminating information that are accessible to both CALD and non-CALD communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Jawad
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia; Health Promotion Unit, Population Health Research & Evaluation Hub, Sydney Local Health District, Australia; Centre of Research Excellence in Translating Early Prevention of Obesity in Childhood (EPOCH-Translate CRE), Australia.
| | - Sarah Taki
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia; Health Promotion Unit, Population Health Research & Evaluation Hub, Sydney Local Health District, Australia; Centre of Research Excellence in Translating Early Prevention of Obesity in Childhood (EPOCH-Translate CRE), Australia; Sydney Institute for Women, Children and their Families, Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Louise Baur
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia; Centre of Research Excellence in Translating Early Prevention of Obesity in Childhood (EPOCH-Translate CRE), Australia; Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Chris Rissel
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia; Flinders University, College of Medicine and Public Health, Rural and Remote Health SA and NT, Darwin, Australia
| | - Seema Mihrshahi
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Li Ming Wen
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia; Health Promotion Unit, Population Health Research & Evaluation Hub, Sydney Local Health District, Australia; Centre of Research Excellence in Translating Early Prevention of Obesity in Childhood (EPOCH-Translate CRE), Australia; Sydney Institute for Women, Children and their Families, Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, Camperdown, Australia
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15
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Andrade EL, Abroms LC, González AI, Favetto C, Gomez V, Díaz-Ramírez M, Palacios C, Edberg MC. Assessing Brigada Digital de Salud Audience Reach and Engagement: A Digital Community Health Worker Model to Address COVID-19 Misinformation in Spanish on Social Media. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1346. [PMID: 37631914 PMCID: PMC10457949 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
U.S. Spanish-speaking populations experienced gaps in timely COVID-19 information during the pandemic and disproportionate misinformation exposure. Brigada Digital de Salud was established to address these gaps with culturally tailored, Spanish-language COVID-19 information on social media. From 1 May 2021 to 30 April 2023, 495 Twitter, 275 Facebook, and 254 Instagram posts were published and amplified by 10 trained community health workers. A qualitative content analysis was performed to characterize the topics and formats of 251 posts. To assess reach and engagement, page analytics and advertising metrics for 287 posts were examined. Posts predominantly addressed vaccination (49.45%), infection risks (19.12%), and COVID-related scientific concepts (12.84%). Posts were educational (48.14%) and aimed to engage audiences (23.67%), promote resources (12.76%), and debunk misinformation (9.04%). Formats included images/text (55.40%), carousels (27.50%), and videos (17.10%). By 9 June 2023, 394 Facebook, 419 Instagram, and 228 Twitter followers included mainly women ages 24-54. Brigada Digital reached 386,910 people with 552,037 impressions and 96,868 engagements, including 11,292 likes, 15,240 comments/replies, 9718 shares/retweets, and 45,381 video play-throughs. The most engaging posts included videos with audio narration, healthcare providers, influencers, or music artists. This community-based model to engage Spanish-speaking audiences on social media with culturally aligned content to counter misinformation shows promise for addressing public health threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L. Andrade
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (L.C.A.); (A.I.G.); (C.F.); (V.G.); (M.C.E.)
| | - Lorien C. Abroms
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (L.C.A.); (A.I.G.); (C.F.); (V.G.); (M.C.E.)
| | - Anna I. González
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (L.C.A.); (A.I.G.); (C.F.); (V.G.); (M.C.E.)
| | - Carla Favetto
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (L.C.A.); (A.I.G.); (C.F.); (V.G.); (M.C.E.)
| | - Valeria Gomez
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (L.C.A.); (A.I.G.); (C.F.); (V.G.); (M.C.E.)
| | | | - César Palacios
- Proyecto Salud, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20902, USA;
| | - Mark C. Edberg
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (L.C.A.); (A.I.G.); (C.F.); (V.G.); (M.C.E.)
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16
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Roederer T, Mollo B, Vincent C, Leduc G, Sayyad-Hilario J, Mosnier M, Vandentorren S. Estimating COVID-19 vaccine uptake and its drivers among migrants, homeless and precariously housed people in France. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2023; 3:30. [PMID: 36801917 PMCID: PMC9939372 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-023-00257-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migrants, people experiencing homelessness (PEH), or precariously housed (PH) are at high risk for COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. However, while data on COVID-19 vaccine uptake in these populations are available in the USA, Canada, and Denmark, we are lacking, to the best of our knowledge, data from France. METHODS In late 2021, we carried out a cross-sectional survey to determine COVID-19 vaccine coverage in PEH/PH residing in Ile-de-France and Marseille, France, and to explore its drivers. Participants aged over 18 years were interviewed face-to-face where they slept the previous night, in their preferred language, and then stratified for analysis into three housing groups (Streets, Accommodated, and Precariously Housed). Standardized vaccination rates were computed and compared to the French population. Multilevel univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were built. RESULTS We find that 76.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 74.3-78.1) of the 3690 participants received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose while 91.1% of the French population did so. Vaccine uptake varies by stratum, with the highest uptake (85.6%; reference) in PH, followed by Accommodated (75.4%; adjusted odds-ratio = 0.79; 95% CI 0.51-1.09 vs. PH) and lowest in Streets (42.0%; AOR = 0.38; 95%CI 0.25-0.57 vs. PH). Use for vaccine certificate, age, socioeconomic factors, and vaccine hesitancy is associated with vaccination coverage. CONCLUSIONS In France, PEH/PH, and especially the most excluded, are less likely than the general population to receive COVID-19 vaccines. While vaccine mandate has proved an effective strategy, targeted outreach, on-site vaccinations, and sensitization activities are strategies enhancing vaccine uptake that can easily be replicated in future campaigns and other settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bastien Mollo
- grid.452373.40000 0004 0643 8660Epicentre, Paris, France ,grid.452373.40000 0004 0643 8660Médecins Sans Frontières, Paris, France ,grid.411119.d0000 0000 8588 831XInfectious and Tropical Diseases Department, Bichat-Claude Bernard Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | | | - Ghislain Leduc
- grid.452373.40000 0004 0643 8660Epicentre, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Stéphanie Vandentorren
- grid.493975.50000 0004 5948 8741Santé Publique France, Saint Maurice, France ,grid.508062.90000 0004 8511 8605University of Bordeaux, INSERM UMR 1219-Bordeaux Population Health, Bordeaux, France
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17
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Gibbs L, Thomas AJ, Coelho A, Al-Qassas A, Block K, Meagher N, Eisa L, Fletcher-Lartey S, Ke T, Kerr P, Kwong EJL, MacDougall C, Malith D, Marinkovic Chavez K, Osborne D, Price DJ, Shearer F, Stoove M, Young K, Zhang Y, Gibney KB, Hellard M. Inclusion of Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in COVID-19 Public Health Research: Research Design Adaptations to Seek Different Perspectives in Victoria, Australia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2320. [PMID: 36767686 PMCID: PMC9916203 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Participation of people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in public health research is often limited by challenges with recruitment, retention and second-language data collection. Consequently, people from CALD communities are at risk of their needs being marginalised in public health interventions. This paper presents intrinsic case analyses of two studies which were adapted to increase the cultural competence of research processes. Both cases were part of the Optimise study, a major mixed methods research study in Australia which provided evidence to inform the Victorian state government's decision-making about COVID-19 public health measures. Case study 1 involved the core Optimise longitudinal cohort study and Case study 2 was the CARE Victorian representative survey, an Optimise sub-study. Both case studies engaged cultural advisors and bilingual staff to adjust the survey measures and research processes to suit target CALD communities. Reflexive processes provided insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the inclusive strategies. Selected survey results are provided, demonstrating variation across CALD communities and in comparison to participants who reported speaking English at home. While in most cases a gradient of disadvantage was evident for CALD communities, some patterns were unexpected. The case studies demonstrate the challenge and value of investing in culturally competent research processes to ensure research guiding policy captures a spectrum of experiences and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Gibbs
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Karen Block
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Niamh Meagher
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Limya Eisa
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | | | - Tianhui Ke
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Phoebe Kerr
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Edwin Jit Leung Kwong
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Colin MacDougall
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Deng Malith
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Katitza Marinkovic Chavez
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
| | | | - David J. Price
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Freya Shearer
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Mark Stoove
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Kathryn Young
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Yanqin Zhang
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Katherine B. Gibney
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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Crawshaw AF, Hickey C, Lutumba LM, Kitoko LM, Nkembi S, Knights F, Ciftci Y, Goldsmith LP, Vandrevala T, Forster AS, Hargreaves S. Codesigning an intervention to strengthen COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Congolese migrants in the UK (LISOLO MALAMU): a participatory qualitative study protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e063462. [PMID: 36639215 PMCID: PMC9842599 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Migrants positively contribute to host societies yet experience barriers to health and vaccination services and systems and are considered to be an underimmunised group in many European countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted stark inequities in vaccine uptake, with migrants facing access and informational barriers and lower vaccine confidence. A key challenge, therefore, is developing tailored vaccination interventions, services and systems which account for and respond to the unique drivers of vaccine uptake in different migrant populations. Participatory research approaches, which meaningfully involve communities in co-constructing knowledge and solutions, have generated considerable interest in recent years for those tasked with designing and delivering public health interventions. How such approaches can be used to strengthen initiatives for COVID-19 and routine vaccination merits greater consideration. METHODS AND ANALYSIS LISOLO MALAMU ('Good Talk') is a community-based participatory research study which uses qualitative and coproduction methodologies to involve adult Congolese migrants in developing a tailored intervention to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Led by a community-academic coalition, the study will involve (1) semistructured in-depth interviews with adult Congolese migrants (born in Democratic Republic of Congo, >18 years), (2) interviews with professional stakeholders and (3) codesign workshops with adult Congolese migrants. Qualitative data will be analysed collaboratively using reflexive thematic analysis, and behaviour change theory will be used in parallel to support the coproduction of interventions and make recommendations across socioecological levels. The study will run from approximately November 2021 to November 2022. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was granted by the St George's University Research Ethics Committee (REC reference: 2021.0128). Study findings will be disseminated to a range of local, national and international audiences, and a community celebration event will be held to show impact and recognise contributions. Recommendations for implementation and evaluation of prototyped interventions will be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison F Crawshaw
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Caroline Hickey
- Hackney Refugee and Migrant Forum, Hackney Council for Voluntary Service, London, UK
| | | | | | - Sarah Nkembi
- Hackney Congolese Women Support Group, London, UK
| | - Felicity Knights
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Lucy Pollyanna Goldsmith
- Institute for Infection and Immunity and Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Tushna Vandrevala
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Centre for Applied Health and Social Care Research, Kingston University, Kingston, UK
| | | | - Sally Hargreaves
- Migrant Health Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, UK
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