New study explores factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine uptake among Métis citizens

Press Release

May 22, 2026

What influences whether someone chooses to get vaccinated? A new study from the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES) in partnership with the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) explored the psychological factors linked to COVID-19 vaccine uptake among Métis citizens in Ontario.

Drawing on responses from nearly 4,000 Métis citizens through an MNO population-based online survey, the research used the “5Cs” model to better understand factors connected to vaccine confidence and hesitancy. The 5Cs include:

• Confidence–trust in vaccines and the systems that provide them
• Complacency–perceived risk of contracting and severity of the disease
• Constraints–structural and psychological barriers to vaccination
• Calculation–efforts in searching for information
• Collective responsibility–the willingness to protect others

The survey data helped researchers better understand how the 5Cs factors related to vaccine hesitancy and vaccination decisions among Métis citizens.

Key Findings:

• Trust in vaccine safety (Confidence) and believing COVID was a serious risk (Complacency) were the two biggest reasons people chose to get vaccinated.
• People who did not trust that COVID-19 vaccines were safe were much less likely to get vaccinated.
• People who believed COVID-19 was a real risk were much more likely to get vaccinated.

These findings highlight the need for targeted health education and health promotion initiatives. When addressing vaccine hesitancy among Métis citizens, it is also important to emphasize that the disease poses greater health risks than vaccination.

At the same time, mistrust rooted in historical trauma and ongoing inequities plays a key role. Effective messaging should acknowledge these realities and be culturally responsive.

The MNO and ICES research team extends heartfelt thanks to the individuals who shared their personal experiences and insights.

Click here to view the full research study.

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