COVID-19 Behaviors and Beliefs Toward Immunizations among College Students in Lima, Peru.

Abstract

Introduction: Peru has experienced one of the highest rates of COVID-19 with only 27% of the population vaccinated. College students must make decisions on vaccination based on their belief and knowledge about immunizations. The purpose of this study was to describe COVID-19 behaviors and beliefs toward immunization among college students in Lima, Peru. Methods: Undergraduate students from Universidad Maria Auxiliadora (UMA) participated in this descriptive study. The CDC National 2009 H1N1 Flu Survey was adapted to measure behaviors and beliefs about immunizations of COVID-19. Results: 818 students participated in the study during the 2020 academic year. Significant differences were identified about taking vaccine when it was available by age (p = .02), gender (p < .001), marital status (p = .004), and income (p = .002). Significant associations were found between participants' ethnicity and location of last vaccination (p < .001) and race and reason to not receive the COVID-19 vaccine (p < .001). Conclusions: Peruvian students under the age of 32 are not eligible for the COVID-19 at this time. Findings can prepare academic institutions to promote education about the vaccine in this age group who have unique barriers in receiving health care and vaccinations.