COVID-19 immunization in refugees and migrants: principles and key considerations: interim guidance, 31 August 2021

Overview

Although everyone is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact is not shared equally. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities and exacerbated existing inequalities within and between low- and high-income countries. These inequalities have had the biggest impact on the poorest and most vulnerable people, which may include refugees and migrants (particularly those in irregular situations). These groups often have vulnerabilities that are heightened by this pandemic.

On 31 August 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) has published an Interim Guidance entitled COVID-19 immunization in refugees and migrants: principles and key considerations. This document, which draws on a recent WHO global review of national deployment and vaccination plans and experience from their implementation and the vaccine rollout worldwide plus literature reviews and existing WHO guidance and tools, provides key principles and policy consideration on equitable prioritization and access to COVID-19 vaccines for refugees and migrants. The document provides information on key challenges and barriers to accessing vaccination services and key considerations in addressing them, as well as good practices. It highlights principles such as global equity for vaccine distribution, national equity and equal respect. It also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and communication to build trust and counter misinformation, fake news and misconceptions, as well as the importance of developing innovative approaches for vaccine delivery.

The document targets national authorities, governmental and nongovernmental organizations, health cluster teams, WHO country offices and United Nations country teams that are responsible for managing and supporting deployment, implementation and monitoring of COVID-19 vaccines in refugees and migrants; and partners who provide support.