Views on Covid and Flu vaccinations from Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities - June 2023

Initial findings included: 

• Most had taken the childhood vaccinations or ones needed for travel because it was expected, insisted upon, or required for travel.
• Eleven of the 15 interviewed said they had taken the Covid vaccine, but only six had taken the Flu vaccine.
• Most would not want to have both Covid and Flu injections on the same day due to a risk of feeling worse.
• Some would take the yearly Flu vaccinations, and some are less sure about it.
• Of those who wanted a Covid vaccine most found it easy, but some found it more difficult to get a Flu one.
• Planning decisions on vaccination were varied: Some focused on the environment of where this would take place and safety.
• Information sources and experiences: There was a definite fear factor about Covid based much on what respondents saw in the news and within their own network of families and friends, as well as work settings.
• Second booster: The overriding concern was of side effects based on experience of already had the vaccination.
• Additional doses: Again, there were a range of views based very much on previous experience and trust not necessarily in the vaccination but the health system that is behind it.
• Influencers: Family members were a significant influence for some, and a sense of protecting the family was a factor.
• Other people’s opinion: Many agree that they make their own decisions.
• Role of healthcare professionals: Nearly all had healthcare professionals to help them decide.
• Improvements they would like to see: Some wish to see their own views respected.
• Other points: Some raised concerns that a person’s immigration status may affect their ability to get vaccinations.
• Reaction to the letter is very much in context: Those who had negative experiences or view found it pressuring particularly in the context of the other communications they were receiving.

Read and download the full report below.