Hyperlocal Covid-19 Testing and Vaccination Strategies to Reach Communities with Low Vaccine Uptake: Considerations for States and Localities

Abstract

Hyperlocal strategies that build on local partnerships and public health capacity are needed to address disparities in testing and vaccination uptake, especially as Covid-19 variants increase in prevalence in the United States. Mass Covid-19 testing programs at schools and workplaces are increasing as the Delta variant spreads, but such efforts are unevenly distributed across the country. This paper provides practical guidance to state and local health officials to ensure Covid-19 diagnostic testing and vaccinations are equitably accessible and distributed among communities experiencing low vaccine uptake. The authors spotlight illustrative examples that show how states and communities can use existing infrastructure as a starting point and modify strategies to meet each community’s needs. These examples are informed by interviews with state and local health officials representing three states and two localities as well as practitioners representing two community-based models. Findings were synthesized into three guiding principles: tailoring approaches; delivering services and communications that are culturally responsive, linguistically accessible, and Americans with Disability Act (ADA) accessible; and engaging community partners. Forward-looking strategies that stem from efforts outlined in this paper can increase state and local capacity to respond to ongoing and future public health crises in an equitable, timely, and community-responsive manner.