Medical students' attitudes and perceptions of influenza and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in Cyprus.
Germs
; 12(2): 180-194, 2022 Jun.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1979794
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Infectious diseases constitute a significant problem globally and healthcare professionals (HCP) show suboptimal vaccination rates. We aimed to evaluate the determinants affecting vaccination against influenza and SARS-CoV-2 among medical students in Cyprus.Methods:
We conducted a cross-sectional study based on a self-reported, anonymous questionnaire that was sent to all medical students of two Medical Schools in the Republic of Cyprus.Results:
Among 266 respondents, 50.8% had been vaccinated against influenza in the past and 20.1% in 2020-21. The majority believed that influenza and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are safe and effective. Regarding vaccination in Cyprus, 41.3% did not know the current recommendations and a higher proportion of preclinical students replied incorrectly, compared to clinical students. Slightly over half (56.4%) considered themselves adequately informed about influenza vaccination, with more clinical students appearing confident (p=0.068). An overwhelming 71.2% were concerned about contracting SARS-CoV-2, compared to 25.4% with regards to influenza. Up to 76.8% considered themselves adequately informed about SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, with significantly more clinical students being confident (p<0.001). Although more preclinical students appeared hesitant, most students had either been vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 (49.4%) or would be as soon as possible (32.1%). Vaccination refusal was 2.3%, a group comprised entirely of preclinical students.Conclusions:
Our study provides relevant and actionable information about differences in attitudes and perceptions between clinical and preclinical medical students regarding vaccination against influenza and SARS-CoV-2 and highlights the importance of organized, systemic efforts to increase vaccination coverage.
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Type of study:
Experimental Studies
/
Observational study
/
Prognostic study
/
Randomized controlled trials
Topics:
Vaccines
Language:
English
Journal:
Germs
Year:
2022
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Germs.2022.1321
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