Identifying Facilitators and Barriers to Increasing COVID-19 Vaccination and Trial Participation in Vaccinated Vietnamese Americans

Abstract

Background: Preventing morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 requires reaching diverse communities. Purpose: To identify facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 immunization and COVID-19 clinical trial participation in the vaccinated Vietnamese American population in Houston, TX. Methods: Community-based qualitative study using focus groups and key informant interviews. Results: Themes that emerged included culturally appropriate language, generational differences, and a collectivist approach. Conclusion: Promoting science-based information through trusted messengers, improving awareness and access, and illuminating benefits to the community could increase the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and volunteering for therapeutic trials among Vietnamese Americans.