Voluntary HIV and Viral Hepatitis Testing in Newly Arrived Migrant Men in a First Reception Center in the North of Paris—a Qualitative Study on the Perception and Forms of Participation

Newly arrived migrants are in a situation of physical and mental vulnerability and precariousness. As a result, they may be at risk of acquiring HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections; but also, at risk of late treatment for their infection. This study evaluated the acceptability of screening for HIV and viral hepatitis and the perception and experience of screening in this vulnerable population. It also explored the different forms of participation in rapid voluntary testing for these infections among newly arrived migrants and assessed their knowledge about infectious communicable diseases in general, particularly in relation to high-risk sexual behavior. In addition, we asked a sample of 6 migrants for their reasons for not participating in this voluntary screening. The semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted in a sample of twenty-five men housed in a first reception center in the north of Paris from 01/10/2019 to 30/07/2020. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded and analyzed. Observation was also used as a complementary qualitative method. This protocol is registered and was approved by the Ethics Evaluation Committee and by the IRB ethics committee (authorization 00,003,888; 6 Sep 2019). It complies with the reference methodology (MR-004) of the French National Commission for Data Protection (CNIL). Most participants were satisfied with the screening program. Participation was either as an individual or in a group. The reasons for participation were categorized as a simple self check-up or as self-reassurance because of doubt or anxiety related to a risky situation. Group participation was also related to self-affirmation and to attesting good health to others in the group and particularly to the host society. There is a limited knowledge of hepatitis B and C in this population. Screening for infection offered an opportunity to speak with migrants about their sexual health and more broadly their general health.