Examining the Role of Social Environment on COVID-19 Infections and Vaccine Uptake Among Migrants in Japan: Findings from Nationwide Surveys in 2021 and 2023

Studies have shown that migrants and ethnic minority groups were unevenly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with most evidence coming from Western countries. This study explores the experience of migrants in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic, examining the association between social environment (i.e., population density, neighborhood deprivation, ethnic density, and social networks) and both COVID-19 infections and vaccination uptake. Data from two nationwide online surveys conducted in 2021 and 2023 were used to analyze these associations during the middle and waning stages of the pandemic. We found that migrants in Japan were more vulnerable to COVID-19 infection but were more receptive to vaccination compared to Japanese nationals. However, not all migrant groups experienced the same outcomes. The effects of social environmental factors on infection and vaccination acceptance were complex and could change, as the pandemic progressed. Environmental factors such as neighborhood population density were not necessarily determinants of COVID-19 infection. More social contacts with Japanese nationals could mitigate vaccination hesitancy, while larger social ties with co-national in the neighborhoods could lead to a higher infection rate. In anticipation of future pandemics, customized programs should be prepared to address the unique healthcare needs of migrants.