Racial and ethnic groups in the USA face significant inequities in COVID-19 infection and vaccine uptake, particularly among individuals with rheumatic conditions who are immunocompromised.
A community-based trial is being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of training trusted community leaders (POLs) to promote COVID-19 vaccination, using either a racial justice framework or a biomedical approach.
The trial aims to increase vaccine uptake by having POLs educate their social networks about COVID-19 vaccines, assessing the impact on vaccination rates among those who have not received the latest vaccine.
Objective: Accurately translated health materials are needed to achieve equity in vaccine uptake among U.S. individuals with non-English language preferences.
The study explores COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Black individuals with rheumatic conditions, emphasizing the need for community and physician insights to address disparities in vaccine uptake.
Participants identified misinformation, mistrust, and historical injustices as key barriers to vaccination, stressing the influence of demographic factors like race and age.
Effective strategies for improving vaccine acceptance involve empathetic, tailored communication and personal storytelling, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying social issues.