Willingness to Receive Influenza Vaccination and its associated factors among Myanmar Migrants along the Thailand–Myanmar Border, Thailand

Author : Pamornsri Inchon, Santiphap Maungjarmad, Phitsanuruk Kanthawee, Sutthichai Nakphook, Chakrarat Pittayawonganon

Abstract :Influenza remains a significant global public health concern, causing an estimated 3–5 million cases of severe illness and up to 650,000 deaths annually. Influenza vaccination is needed to prevent infection and severe conditions. Myanmar migrants in Thailand–Myanmar border areas face heightened vulnerability due to limited access to healthcare and preventive services. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the willingness to receive influenza vaccination and its associated factors among Myanmar migrants attending the Mae Tao Clinic in Tak Province. Using a structured questionnaire based on the WHO Behavioral and Social Drivers of Vaccination framework, 1,410 adult participants were surveyed. 88.9% of those were willing to receive the influenza vaccination. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that higher education (secondary level: AOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1-3.7, p 0.031; bachelor’s degree or higher: AOR 3.4, 95% CI 1.2-3.7, p 0.022), day laborers (AOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.6, p 0.012), and a strong perception of influenza severity and vaccine importance (moderate: AOR 2.9, 95% CI 1.5-5.6, p 0.002; high: AOR 9.4, 95% CI 5.2-17.2, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with willingness. Additional factors included awareness of influenza, belief in vaccine safety and effectiveness, support from family, community, and healthcare providers. Free vaccination (81.3%) and a doctor’s recommendation (90.1%) were strong motivators. These findings underscore the need for targeted public healthcare policies that promote vaccine education, enhance communication among healthcare providers, and eliminate financial barriers to increase influenza vaccination coverage among migrant populations along the Thailand–Myanmar border

Keywords :Influenza vaccination, migrant health, Thailand–Myanmar border.

Conference Name :International Conference on Public Healthcare Policy (ICPHP-25)

Conference Place Fukuoka, Japan

Conference Date 11th Aug 2025