Contextual factors that shape uptake of COVID-19 preventive measures by persons of Ghanaian and Eritrean origin in The Netherlands: a focus group study

Torensma, Marieke; Harting, Janneke; Boateng, Linda; Agyemang, Charles; Tekle, Yordi Lassooy; Jacob, Yodit; van den Muijsenbergh, Maria; Fakiri, Fatima el; Prins, Maria; Stronks, Karien

Objectives: To explore the contextual factors that shape uptake of COVID-19 preventive measures, in specific migrant and ethnic minority populations, with a focus on migration-related, sociocultural and socioeconomic conditions. Design: A qualitative design, consisting of three online focus group discussions. Setting: This study was conducted among smaller, albeit substantial, migrant and minority ethnic populations in the Netherlands. Participants: A total of 25 participants (12 male; 13 female) of Ghanaian and Eritrean origin, purposively sampled to ensure diversity within groups, with regards to sex, age, educational level, occupation, household size and length of stay in the Netherlands. Focus group discussions were held online, therefore, experience in the use of video conferencing software was a prerequisite. Results: Participants’ awareness and knowledge of COVID-19 and COVID-19 preventive measures was shaped by migration-related factors, such as limited Dutch proficiency, by access to understandable information and interference of misinformation. Participants’ engagement by COVID-19 preventive measures was subject to COVID-19 threat appraisal and the ease with which complex behavioural messages could be translated to individual situations. Lastly, a strong social norm to keep with cultural and religious practices, and limited opportunity for preventive behaviour in the work and home context hinder the uptake of preventive behaviour following a decision to act according to measures. Conclusions: Migration-related, sociocultural, and socioeconomic factors shape uptake of COVID-19 preventive measures amongst persons of Ghanaian and Eritrean origin in The Netherlands. To ensure equitable uptake our results suggest the importance of timely spread of multilingual information tailored to literacy needs; as well as, education and modelling delivered through online platforms and by leading figures in respective communities; and, regulations to ensure continued access to financial and material resources to minimise negative spill-over effects and exacerbation of inequality.