PREVAC in Communications Medicine

Within the framework of the PREVAC study, following the epidemiological study COVIDep-Homeless, was published the paper: “Estimating COVID-19 vaccine uptake and its drivers among migrants, homeless and precariously housed people in France” in the Communications medicine journal.

“Vulnerable populations, such as people experiencing homelessness, are less likely to have a COVID-19 vaccine. We aimed to identify potential reasons for this, by interviewing homeless/precariously housed people in France. We found that although most homeless people have been vaccinated, vaccination rates are lower than the general population. Among the homeless, the least likely to be vaccinated are those living on the streets. The need for vaccine certificates and the support of social workers are positive drivers of vaccine uptake, while influence from family/friends, vaccine hesitancy and fear of the vaccine negatively affect uptake. Providing vaccines on-site and tailoring programs to better target these vulnerable groups should be priorities. Raising awareness by involving trusted third parties is also key to countering negative vaccine beliefs. Our insights apply beyond the COVID-19 crisis, when routinely supporting the health of vulnerable populations.”

Roederer, T., Mollo, B., Vincent, C. et al. Estimating COVID-19 vaccine uptake and its drivers among migrants, homeless and precariously housed people in France. Commun Med 3, 30 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43856-023-00257-1

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