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.

Keywords: COVID-19 vaccination; healthcare providers; immigrant; pregnant women; vaccine hesitancy.