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Reaching Unvaccinated Urban Native Americans: A COVID-19 Study for the Department of Indian Work

Authors: Maria Robisnon

Publication Year: 2022

Last Updated: June 2022

Journal:

Keywords: Covid-19; Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Health Disparities; Vaccination/Immunization; Messaging; Mistrust

Short Abstract: Through interviews with experts in the field, unvaccinated individuals, and a scan of what other organizations around the U.S. that serve urban Native American populations are doing, we found that COVID-19 vaccine-related messaging and strategies should use a culturally based approach centering the Native American community.

Abstract: Through interviews with experts in the field, unvaccinated individuals, and a scan of what other organizations around the U.S. that serve urban Native American populations are doing, we found that COVID-19 vaccine-related messaging and strategies should use a culturally based approach centering the Native American community. Organizations should focus their efforts on targeting messages and strategies to those who may be on the fence about vaccinations and should not waste time and resources trying to convince those who feel strongly that they will not get vaccinated. With this in mind, some key findings are:  Communities of color, especially Native American communities, experience significant health disparities, such as higher rates of infectious and chronic diseases including COVID-19. Disparities have always existed but have been exacerbated by COVID-19.  Those least like to get vaccinated in the Native American community are: people age 20-50; those who identify as traditionalists or religious; women who are pregnant, nursing, or breastfeeding; and community members who are transient.  There is a lack of trust in government and western medical entities among the Native American community rooted in multigenerational experiences of racism and discrimination.  Use trusted messengers like family and friends to disseminate information about COVID-19 and the vaccine.  Education and understanding of how vaccines are created and approved would help address common misconceptions and concerns in the Native American community.

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://www.wilder.org/sites/default/files/imports/InterfaithAction_COVIDHotlineEvaluation_6-22revised.pdf