Exploring COVID-19 Vaccine Concerns, Uptake, and Hesitancy Among Pregnant Central American Immigrant Women in the United States During the Pandemic.

Abstract

Objective: The COVID-19 vaccine is vital for protecting pregnant women and their babies, yet many foreign-born women face unique challenges in vaccine uptake. This study explores COVID-19-related fears and vaccine acceptance among from the Northern Triangle countries-El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras in the United States (U.S.).

Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to identify factors influencing COVID-19 vaccination among foreign-born pregnant women from Central America, specifically El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, living in the U.S.

Results: The study included 93 women (mean gestation: 23.3 weeks), most of whom had lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years and had low acculturation. Over two-thirds (66.7%) were fully vaccinated. Key factors driving vaccine acceptance included healthcare access, community health initiatives, and trusted provider recommendations. Cultural values emphasizing family protection and a heightened sense of vulnerability to COVID-19 also contributed to higher vaccination rates. However, 33.3% expressed hesitancy, particularly due to distrust in government, fear of needles, and concerns about the vaccine's rapid development, with Guatemalan participants showing the highest hesitancy.

Conclusions: Findings underscore the critical role of healthcare providers in vaccination decisions, and tailored communication strategies addressing cultural and emotional factors are essential to improving vaccine uptake, particularly in immigrant communities.