COVID-19 Virus and Vaccine Education
An undercurrent of anticipation blended with the air, rising with verbal directions and cheerful greeting. For a communal society who highly values social ties, and face to face communication, it had been far too long since they had been able to gather together. Mild apprehension pushed against purpose with the setting up of the canopies, tables, food, and supplies, as individuals awkwardly attempted to observe social distancing and the use of masks. “I'm scared of the virus, but I’m more scared of the vaccine,” one woman whispered to me. “One Micronesian minister on Facebook said it’s part of the anti-Christ, but he and his wife died from it”, another reported. “I don’t think it’s (vaccine) safe” another responded.
Approximately 40% of the 100+ people participating in the COVID-19 health education presentation had not received the vaccine. The group was skeptical as the Sain Mamau health education team began explaining what the COVID-19 virus is and and how the vaccine works. Knowing this was a topic evoking strong emotions, the team worked hard to develop a culturally appropriate presentation, and materials. The presentation began and ended with prayer. Sain Mamau’s President acted as interpreter and carefully observed participant engagement and response during the entire presentation as well as guided spontaneous changes as needed. The participants remained engaged, taking photos and videos, and chuckling at humor. During the follow up question and answer session, many honest questions were asked.
Following the education presentation, some individuals approached our staff, thanking them for helping them to understand more about the COVID-19 vaccine. One woman replied, “Thank you, I am going to share this with my family and encourage all of them to get vaccinated.” One elder reported, “We didn’t understand this. Thank you. I feel like I will go ahead and get the vaccine.” Others were thankful for the information, but preferred to remain unvaccinated.
The purpose of the education was not convince or force participants to get vaccinated, but rather to provide science validated education in a culturally appropriate way. Information regarding where vaccinations could be received was also provided.
Verbal follow up with some non vaccinated participants several weeks following the presentation revealed at least 4 participants voluntarily receiving the vaccine. Two groups of Micronesians living on the mainland contacted the President of Sain Mamau several weeks following the presentation, thanking him and reporting some who decided to get the vaccination.
