On behalf of the National Hispanic Medical Association, we present the NHMA Florida Chapter’s webinar on “Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy in Diverse Latin American Immigrant Communities: Flu, COVID-19, and Meningococcal Meningitis”.
In this webinar, we cover the latest updates on COVID-19, flu, and meningococcal disease, and how to keep you and your loved ones safe this season. The event features opening remarks from Eliseo J. Pérez-Stable, M.D., Director of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) at the NIH. Our expert panel includes Katrina Celis, MD (University of Miami), Alicia Stillman, MBA, MPH (American Society for Meningitis Prevention), and Lujan Soler, MD (FIDEC), who discussed flu, COVID-19, meningococcal disease, and immunization education.
The conversation was moderated by Dr. Luis Isea Mercado, MD FACP and Dr. Serguei Castaneda, MD, Co-Chairs of the NHMA Florida Chapter.
Click the link to watch the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abPnzZR7WHQ&t=555s
Video Transcription:
Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy in Latin American Immigrant Communities
Influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and Meningococcal Disease
Vaccine hesitancy remains a critical public health challenge, particularly within Latin American immigrant communities in the United States. This webinar—organized by National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) and partners—explores the real barriers behind hesitancy, effective communication strategies, and the importance of vaccination against **influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and meningococcal disease**.
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Why Vaccine Hesitancy Is Not Just About Beliefs
Research and real-world experience show that vaccine hesitancy in Hispanic and Latin American communities is often driven by **access barriers**, not ideology.
Key factors include:
* Limited access to healthcare and insurance
* Time constraints and transportation issues
* Language barriers
* Fear of side effects fueled by misinformation
* Immigration-related concerns
In many Latin American countries, vaccine acceptance is high. In the U.S., the challenge is often **logistics, trust, and clarity**, not rejection of science.
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The Importance of Respiratory Virus Vaccination
Respiratory viruses peak during colder months when people spend more time indoors. Vaccination remains the most effective tool to reduce **severe illness, hospitalization, and death**.
Influenza
* Requires **annual vaccination**
* Often underestimated due to familiarity
* Still causes significant morbidity and mortality every year
COVID-19
* Vaccines reduce severe disease and death
* Booster fatigue and misinformation remain major challenges
### RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
* Historically associated with children
* Causes **6,000–10,000 deaths annually** in adults over 65
* Vaccination rates remain critically low
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Meningococcal Disease: A Preventable Tragedy
Meningococcal disease is rare but devastating.
**Key facts:**
* Caused by *Neisseria meningitidis*
* Progresses rapidly—sometimes within hours
* Kills **1 in 10** infected individuals
* **1 in 5 survivors** experience permanent disabilities
Transmission occurs through close contact such as kissing or sharing drinks.
Vaccination includes:
* **MenACWY** (routine at 11–12 years, booster at 16)
* **MenB** (shared clinical decision-making)
* New **pentavalent vaccines (ABCWY)** are emerging
The complexity of recommendations often creates confusion for families and providers alike.
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Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy: What Actually Works
Healthcare providers play a critical role. The most effective strategies include:
* One-on-one conversations
* Using **trusted messengers**
* Clear, simple explanations
* Avoiding confrontation or judgment
* Framing vaccination as protection for loved ones
* Emphasizing **risk vs. benefit**, not fear
Refusal should never be taken personally—it is part of the trust-building process.
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Myths About Genetics and Vaccines
A common concern involves mRNA vaccines and genetics.
Facts:
* mRNA vaccines **do not alter DNA**
* mRNA never enters the cell nucleus
* Side effects vary due to natural genetic diversity
* Diverse representation in research improves vaccine safety
Addressing these concerns directly and calmly is essential to building confidence.
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Key Takeaways
* Vaccines are one of the most effective public health tools ever developed
* Hesitancy is often rooted in access and trust, not opposition
* RSV and meningococcal disease remain under-recognized threats
* Providers must **initiate the conversation**
* Education combined with empathy drives real impact
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Moving Forward
Community education, culturally competent communication, and consistent engagement are essential to improving vaccination rates and protecting vulnerable populations.
Becoming an **immunization champion** starts with informed, compassionate dialogue.
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