Developing a tool to support vaccine literacy with a participatory approach: Glossary of essential terms on vaccinations

Abstract Issue Access to vaccination services on their own is often difficult for migrants, especially newcomers (NAM), due to few vaccine literate services. Professionals who meet migrants need easily accessible vaccine information, to strengthen their ability to promote vaccination and facilitate vaccination access for NAM, especially non-medical professionals such as cultural mediators, reception staff, language teachers, social workers and community leaders. Description For offering accurate, accessible and actionable information by using plain language, a Glossary of Essential terms on Vaccination was developed and then tailored in each consortium countries, with a participatory approach. The Glossary is structured in two sections: vaccination related terminology and terms specific to country healthcare organization. Results 8 workshops were organized in Greece, Italy, Spain, Germany, Cyprus, Malta, Poland, Romania to consult health and non-health professionals who work with migrants to make the tool as actionable as possible (83 participants). Cultural mediators were most represented, followed by NGO operators and physicians. The workshops were held based on shared guidelines, the focus was on assessing the clarity, completeness and usability of the glossary. 90% reported that the glossary is clear and useful, 80% considered the tool relevant, while 75% thought it is easy to use. The Glossary has been formatted with facing text in different languages for each consortium country, thus providing a comprehensive resource (53 final versions). Lessons By implementing the glossary, we aim to enable, empower, guide and facilitate access to immunization for NAMs. Sharing an essential vaccine-related information tool with “professionals for health” boosts their advocacy for NAM’s vaccination and healthcare system’s responsiveness to vaccine literacy. The participatory approach increases effectiveness and permeability of the tool itself.