Attitude of medical students to vaccination against COVID-19

Abstract

The World Health Organization has identified the problem of distrust of vaccines as one of the main global threats to human health. The adoption of a positive decision on vaccination is significantly influenced by medical professionals. However, there are people among health professionals who are not committed to vaccination. An analytical review of studies conducted among students of medical educational institutions in European countries, the USA and Asian countries shows that the majority of students have a positive attitude to vaccination against COVID-19. Among the reasons for refusing vaccination, the students indicated the fear of complications and the possibility of introducing microchips. Among the sources of information about vaccines, students indicated an educational institution and social networks. The authors of the studies suggest that such concerns may be associated with insufficient training of students in the field of vaccinology. During the surveys, medical workers and students indicated their lack of awareness of vaccination prevention issues and unwillingness to discuss with opponents of vaccination. The results of the study conducted by the authors in Moscow (Russia), revealed similar results. Among the reasons for refusing vaccination, respondents indicated fears of complications. Negative information about vaccines was mainly obtained from the Internet. At the same time, respondents had great confidence in the opinion of medical professionals, including in making a positive decision on vaccination. The meeting of students with leading experts in the field of vaccination showed its high demand and effectiveness. As a result of the meeting, educational and methodological materials on vaccines and exposing myths about vaccination were prepared.