Barriers and Facilitators of COVID-19 Booster Uptake Among Ethnic Minority Populations in the UK: A Systematic Review

https://doi.org/10.55640/irjmshc-v02i05-02
Section: Articles Published Date: 2025-05-03 Pages: 8-28 Abstract Views: 70 Downloads: 23

Authors

  • Kennedy Oberhiri Obohwemu PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Birmingham Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Gordon Mabengban Yakpir PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Birmingham Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Joyce Eberechukwu Idomeh PhD, Department of Social Works (DSW), College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Bedford Park Campus, Sturt Road, Bedford Park 5042, South Australia; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Gabriel Olaoluwa Abayomi PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Manchester Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Maame Ama Owusuaa-Asante PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Birmingham Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Sandra Chinyeaka Nwokocha PhD, Faculty of Business & Tourism Management, Canterbury Christ Church University, GBS Partnership, Birmingham, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Iyevhobu Oshiokhayamhe Kenneth MPH, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria
  • Rupali Chauhan MPH, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Manchester, United Kingdom
  • Shubham Sharma MDS, Independent Researcher, Manchester, United Kingdom
  • Divya Motupalli MPHGH, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Manchester, United Kingdom
  • Mary Akadiri MSc, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Birmingham, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Funke Abolade Adumashi MSc, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Pearson, GBS Partnership, Manchester, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Samuel Oluwatosin Adejuyitan MSc, Doctoral Researcher, School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the West of Scotland, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
  • Oluwadamilola R. Tayo MPH, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Leeds, United Kingdom
  • Bartholomew Ituma Aleke PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Abstract

Background:

Ethnic minority populations in the United Kingdom have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Addressing disparities in vaccine uptake is essential to ensuring the success of national immunisation efforts. Understanding the factors contributing to lower COVID-19 booster vaccination rates among these groups is critical to meeting both national and global public health objectives.

Objectives:

This systematic review aimed to identify the key factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine booster uptake among ethnic minority populations in the UK.

Methods:

Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across MEDLINE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and CINAHL for epidemiological studies published up to December 2023. Studies were included if they reported on vaccine uptake or explored factors influencing COVID-19 vaccination among ethnic minority groups in the UK. Of 4,382 records screened, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final synthesis.

Results:

All seventeen included studies were assessed as being of acceptable quality. Ethnic minority status was associated with greater vaccine hesitancy and lower uptake compared to White British groups. Key barriers included limited knowledge about vaccine safety, misinformation, inaccessible communication strategies, and logistical challenges. Facilitators included targeted media outreach and culturally sensitive communication delivered by trusted sources within communities.

Conclusion:

Community engagement, supported by trusted healthcare and social networks, is essential to addressing the concerns and information needs of ethnic minority populations. Such approaches can help reduce disparities and improve uptake of COVID-19 booster vaccines.

Keywords

COVID-19, vaccine uptake, booster vaccine, ethnic minority, predictors, facilitators, barriers, United Kingdom

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