Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake and hesitancy among multinational refugees and migrants in Jordan

Abstract

This article explores the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake and hesitancy among multinational refugees and migrants residing in various regions of Jordan. Drawing on an analysis of data collected from 636 participants in December 2021, only 58.2 per cent of the refugee community in Jordan received COVID-19 vaccines, knowing that vaccine hesitancy compromises vaccination campaign efforts to control the spread of the disease. In fact, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and local Jordanian authorities are well aware that, unless sufficiently vaccinated, the clustered populations of refugees and migrants might witness future infectious outbreaks similar to COVID-19. This study reveals that COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is evident among the refugee and migrant populations, who are mainly sceptical of its efficiency and safety. Migrants and refugees also have a preference for certain types of COVID-19 vaccines. In light of the findings, future interventions are needed to mitigate their concerns and boost vaccine confidence. A more holistic policy approach should prioritize migrants and refugees who are female, unemployed, less educated, and/or have poor knowledge about COVID-19 and its vaccines. Unfortunately, imposing the COVID-19 vaccination as a compulsory measure has been poorly received by some migrants and refugees, making them more hesitant.