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International Research Journal of Medical Sciences and Health Care

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

DOI https://doi.org/10.55640/irjmshc-v02i05-02
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Kennedy Oberhiri Obohwemu 1 , Gordon Mabengban Yakpir 1 , Joyce Eberechukwu Idomeh 1 , Gabriel Olaoluwa Abayomi 1 , Maame Ama Owusuaa-Asante 1 , Sandra Chinyeaka Nwokocha 1 , Iyevhobu Oshiokhayamhe Kenneth 1 , Rupali Chauhan 1 , Shubham Sharma 1 , Divya Motupalli 1 , Mary Akadiri 1 , Funke Abolade Adumashi 1 , Samuel Oluwatosin Adejuyitan 1 , Oluwadamilola R. Tayo 1 , Bartholomew Ituma Aleke 1 ,
4 PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Birmingham Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Birmingham Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 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
4 PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Manchester Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS, Birmingham Campus, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 PhD, Faculty of Business & Tourism Management, Canterbury Christ Church University, GBS Partnership, Birmingham, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 MPH, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria
4 MPH, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Manchester, United Kingdom
4 MDS, Independent Researcher, Manchester, United Kingdom
4 MPHGH, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Manchester, United Kingdom
4 MSc, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Birmingham, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 MSc, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Pearson, GBS Partnership, Manchester, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 MSc, Doctoral Researcher, School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the West of Scotland, United Kingdom; and PENKUP Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom
4 MPH, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Leeds, United Kingdom
4 PhD, Faculty of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Oxford Brookes University, GBS Partnership, Leeds, United Kingdom

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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