The where and the why: sources of information about COVID-19 vaccines among migrants in Australia

Abstract

Background: Access to timely, accurate health-related information can protect migrants’ health during public health crises. However, unmet language needs, social alienation and mistrust were among the barriers that migrants faced in accessing official information about COVID-19 and recommended vaccines. This study aimed to explore information-seeking behaviour about COVID-19 vaccines among Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO) born migrants in Australia.

Methods: With an explanatory mixed-method approach, we employed an online survey followed by semi-structured interviews. Survey and interviews were advertised through migrants-specific organisations' websites and social media posts, and Facebook advertisements. The survey collected data on socio-demographics, sources of information, preferred communication channels and information-gathering capacity from 300 individuals between September and November 2021. Seventeen adults participated in interviews between December 2021 and February 2022. The qualitative data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results: The survey participants’ mean age was 41.4 ± 11.8 years and 52% were male. Around 70% reported that the Australian government was among their main sources of information, and 37% preferred receiving information via email or SMS. Around 70% agreed that they can easily access the information they need, feel included in government communications, and can distinguish between fake and good information. Around 60% agreed they could access information in their language, while approximately 50% of respondents indicated they had difficulty understanding vaccine information. Analysis of the interview transcripts revealed that the information sources used depended on their perceived need, their information-gathering capacity, ease of access and trust in sources. Lack of trust in official sources made it more difficult to accept uncertainty. Sources of information favoured included community networks and personal experience.

Conclusion: To ensure equitable access to health information, health communications should be tailored to migrants’ specific needs, preferences and information-gathering capacity. Such communication should be practised in all aspects of health, not only during a public health crisis, to improve trust in official sources.