Examples of Communication Strategy
Case Scenario 1:
Potential for vaccine acceptance
- Almaz is a 38-year-old woman at the health facility for her infant's wellness check-up. Almaz has diabetes and is overweight. She does not ask about the COVID-19 vaccine. She always brings her baby for health visits and accepts routine vaccines. Is Almaz eligible as a member of a priority group? What would you say to Almaz?
- If eligible for COVID-19 vaccine:
- Use a presumptive approach: assume they will accept the COVID-19 vaccine.
- State that they will receive the vaccine today.
- Share key messages about the COVID-19 vaccine, benefits, common side-effects, care and follow-up.
- If you receive consent and there are no questions or concerns, proceed with vaccination.
- If questions or concerns, listen and respond with empathy. Use medical evidence or stories to convey the safety, effectiveness, and need for the vaccine.
Case Scenario 2:
Hesitant due to misinformation
- Fatuma is a 25-year-old female who arrives at the health facility for a family planning visit. She works as a nurse in a high-risk area but has not received COVID-19 vaccine. When asked, Fatuma says, "I read it can cause health problems. Is that true? Should I trust the vaccine?" Is Fatuma eligible as a member of a priority group? What would you say to Fatuma?
- If eligible for COVID-19 vaccine:
- Use a participatory approach: identify and address misinformation/rumors; help them to understand the importance/need for vaccination.
- Ask questions to discover misinformation. Share facts and stories to debunk myths and respond to concerns.
- Acknowledge risks and benefits of COVID-19 vaccine. Ask about vaccine perceptions and preferences. Listen and respond with empathy.
- If you receive consent and there are no questions or concerns, proceed with vaccination. If a person remains hesitant, be respectful and provide information to take home, and encourage them to consider vaccination.
Case Scenario 3:
Not part of a priority group
- Hadas is a healthy 28-year-old female who brings her infant for a wellness check. She says that while she is at the health facility, she would like to have a COVID-19 vaccine. Why is Hadas not eligible for COVID-19 vaccine? What would you say to Hadas?
- If not eligible for the vaccine:
- Recognize and appreciate her interest in keeping self and family healthy.
- Explain that the current guidelines do not indicate that they should get a COVID-19 vaccine at this time.
- Advise her on COVID-19 prevention measures.
- If available, provide information on when the vaccine will be available to non-priority groups.