Ethnocultural perspectives on routine childhood vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic: “Here in Canada, we're multicultural people, right?”

Background An ethnocultural group is defined by shared characteristics such as country of origin, ethnicity, cultural traditions, or physical traits. Low vaccine coverage and increased incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) have been identified within some ethnocultural groups in Canada. We explored how intersections of ethnocultural identity and social location influenced perceptions about routine childhood vaccination and access to services during the COVID-19 pandemic, among racialized minority, newcomer, Indigenous, and language minority parents. Methods. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, we conducted semi-structured virtual interviews with parents of children ≤ 11 years of age. Participants were from 6 provinces, and self-identified with ethnocultural groups known to be at risk for experiencing vaccination inequities. Participants were asked to describe their ethnocultural identity, social location, and vaccination experiences within and, if applicable, outside of Canada, and contextualize how these influenced routine childhood vaccination during the pandemic. Analysis focused on emerging themes and utilized intersectionality theory. Results. Of the 17 participants, 4 self-identified as Indigenous, 11 primarily spoke minority languages, and 13 immigrated to Canada from outside of North America. Themes included: (1) newcomers found Canadian childhood vaccination accessible, although unfamiliarity with vaccine schedules and processes created uncertainty; (2) ethnocultural diversity was a protective factor against racialized minority discrimination; (3) vaccination inclusivity consisted of normalization and socialization processes, and was more than just a convenient ‘location’; and (4) polarized perceptions placed high importance on routine vaccines but increased hesitancy towards influenza and COVID-19 vaccines for children. Conclusions Our findings suggest that previous social and cultural perceptions of vaccination and experiences with VPDs shaped parents' positive perceptions and acceptance of routine vaccines for their children. Canada’s multiculturalism fosters respectful and inclusive services.