Many people want to kōrero about the COVID-19 vaccine in a safe environment where they can ask questions of clinical experts.
Recent information session evenings held in Wainuiomata and Waiwhetū, Lower Hutt, were tailored to unvaccinated Māori, and provided valuable information that may help people to make their vaccination decision. Key influencers from whānau, who have expressed hesitancy or had questions of a clinical nature, were invited to attend.
Del Carlini, Māori Equity Lead Programme Manager – COVID-19 Response, says initial feedback has been positive and we are now working with public health organisations (PHOs) and sports clubs to run further information sessions.
The session format typically starts with a karakia, followed by facilitated Q&A with a Malaghan Institute scientist, GP and clinical nurse involved with COVID-19 vaccinations. Questions are based on what we understand most people want to know, such as what’s in the vaccine? What happens to it in your body?
“Our most effective line of questioning was when we had the Malaghan scientist reveal that she had had COVID-19 herself so she was able to describe what that was like and the long ongoing impacts. It was a compelling story," Del Carlini explains.
"We know that some people who attended the information sessions are now vaccinated and in one case, they have become vocally supportive of vaccination. We just need to do a lot more of these sessions. The information given out is one part of the process, more important is giving people an opportunity to ask questions face to face and to test their thinking. Often their questions are about specific health conditions and the vaccine."
Rugby league clubs have also requested support and an information session is planned for Thursday 28 October for rugby league players and whānau in Waitangirua.
