COVID-19 Vaccine Knowledge, Attitude, and Acceptance in Students of Tertiary Institutions in Central Nigeria

Abstract

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND: On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic. Nigeria, among African nations, has borne the highest burden of COVID-19 reporting 163,498 cases and 2,058 fatalities. Institutions of higher learning possess certain characteristics that can increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission within their campuses. These features include a sizable student population, high population density, and frequent student interactions. As a result, it is imperative to implement protective measures to mitigate the virus’s spread on campus. 
 
 AIM/OBJECTIVE: This research aimed to explore the connection between the knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines among students in tertiary institutions located in Central Nigeria. 
 
 METHODOLOGY: An anonymous online survey was conducted among Nigerian students, gathering information related to their demographics, as well as assessing their knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to accept vaccines in the post-COVID-19 era. The collected data were subjected to analysis through descriptive and inferential statistics.
 
 RESULTS: Out of the 400 participants included in the survey, 140 (35.0%) reported having already received a COVID-19 vaccine, while 144 (36.0%) expressed an intention to be vaccinated. The analysis indicated that there is a positive yet very weak correlation between attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination and the intention to get vaccinated (r = −0.023, N = 365, p < 0.01). Conversely, knowledge regarding COVID-19 vaccines demonstrated a significant positive correlation with the intent to be vaccinated (r = 0.222, N = 367, p < 0.01). 
 
 CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of students’ knowledge and attitudes regarding vaccines in shaping their acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines. The results emphasize the critical necessity of providing comprehensive information on COVID-19 vaccines to address concerns related to unforeseen side effects, mitigate general mistrust in vaccine benefits, and alleviate apprehensions about the profitability of pharmaceutical companies.