Perceived barriers of migrants and refugees to vaccinate their children against Measles and polio: a study in Iran

Abstract

Background: This study examined the perceived barriers of migrants and refugees to vaccinating their children against measles and polio in Iran.

Methods: First, an instrument was developed and validated through several steps. Next, 1,067 parents who had not vaccinated their children against polio and measles or had delayed receiving any dose of these two vaccines until the age of 15 were selected from 16 provinces and completed the instrument. Finally, the data were analyzed.

Results: The results of the explanatory factor analysis showed that the perceived barriers affecting vaccination against polio and measles vaccines were categorized into five factors: low knowledge, negative attitude, communication challenges, lack of participation in vaccination programs, and problems related to migration and refugees. Additionally, the results indicated a significant difference in the mean score of perceived barriers based on participants' level of education, economic status, and nationality.

Conclusion: The identified barriers may provide a perspective for developing effective efforts in this area. Interventions should focus on parents with low education and poor economic status.

Keywords: Iran; Measles and polio vaccination; Migrant and refugee people; Perceived barriers.