Perceived Vaccine Efficacy, Willingness to Pay for COVID-19 Vaccine and Associated Determinants among Foreign Migrants in China

Objectives: The COVID-19 public health crisis has increased the global burden of diseases and mortality. Hence, global vaccination becomes non-negotiable to support immunity to reduce morbidity and mortality burdens. The COVID-19 vaccine campaign hinges on health promotion and equitable distribution, especially among minority groups. Therefore, the current study investigated the determinants of perceived vaccine efficacy and willingness to pay among foreign migrants in China. Methods: The study appraised data from an online-based survey carried out among foreign migrants in mainland China through the WeChat platform. Data analysis was carried out through bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: A total of 498 foreign migrants were recruited, with male 47.65%, female 45.2%, and other gender minority groups (7.15%). The study found that females, gender minorities, students, preference for alternative medicine, culture neutrality, belief against vaccination, and prefer free vaccination were less likely to pay for COVID-19 vaccination. Meanwhile, those whose families/relatives are opposed to vaccination and have good subjective health than others in their age group were less likely to believe in vaccine efficacy. Those who have received at least a dose of COVI D-19 vaccine (AoR: 3.32, 95% CI: 1.94-5.58, p<0.001), believe vaccines are accessible (AoR: 2.40, 95% CI: 1.52-3.98, p<0.001) and have high perceived susceptibility to COVID-19 (AoR: 1.97,95% CI: 1.18-3.28, p<0.01) were more likely to believe in vaccine efficacy. Conclusion: The research extends evidence on vaccination behavior among foreign migrant groups. Vaccination support among migrants should target indicators like culture, gender identity, psychological health, subjective health, and perceived severity to eradicate vaccine hesitancy and misinformation that can translate to increased vaccine participation among minority groups.