HPV and MMR vaccine education intervention to promote migrant health equity in Greece

Abstract Background Vaccination coverage for MMR and HPV remains significantly lower among migrant and refugee children in Greece compared to the general population. The RIVER-EU project aims to reduce health inequalities and improve vaccine uptake among underserved populations through co-designed, community-driven interventions. Methods Using a participatory approach with migrant communities, we identified trusted sources of health information-doctors and community leaders. We trained doctors and community leaders (who served as health promoters) on culturally aware communication. We trained them to deliver tailored educational sessions on MMR and HPV vaccines in an easily comprehensible way with culturally and linguistically adapted presentations. Following their training, educational sessions were provided in schools, NGOs, diaspora organizations, and workplaces. Pre-, post-, and 6-month follow-up questionnaires assessed participants’ vaccine knowledge and intention to vaccinate. Vaccine uptake was measured 6 months post-intervention. Children and their parents were targeted, recognizing the dual importance of parental decision-making and youth vaccine literacy in fostering informed dialogue within families. Results Preliminary findings indicate an improvement in vaccine-related knowledge among parents and children following the educational sessions. Parents’ intention to vaccinate their children for HPV and MMR also increased significantly post-intervention, with some sustained effects at 6 months. Conclusions Vaccine education interventions co-designed with communities and delivered by trusted figures can effectively enhance knowledge and intention towards vaccination. Challenges persist, including vaccine hesitancy, systemic mistrust, and competing priorities for basic needs such as housing and employment. Sustained engagement and context-sensitive strategies are essential to address these barriers and promote long-term health equity for migrant populations.