Abstract
This study aimed to identify the factors affecting the practice of COVID-19 prevention behaviors among college students as future medical workers. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in September 2021. A total of 526 health college students were included in this study. A hierarchical regression analysis was performed to examine the effect on the practice of COVID-19 prevention behavior. As a result of the analysis, experiences of education on infectious diseases had significant positive effects on the practice of prevention behavior (β = 0.22, p < 0.001). Additionally, a higher COVID-19 health belief had a significant positive effect on the practice of prevention behavior (β = 0.15, p = 0.004). Increased smoking and drinking among lifestyle changes after COVID-19 had significant negative effects on the practice of prevention behavior compared with decreased physical activity (β = −0.12, p = 0.007). Based on these findings, the study discussed the importance of education on the prevention of infectious diseases among health college students, promotion of health beliefs related to infectious diseases, and formation of healthy lifestyle habits in daily life.
Highlights
In February 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as designated by the WorldHealth Organization (WHO), led to a pandemic
This study aimed to identify the factors affecting the practice of COVID-19 prevention behaviors among college students who will become future medical workers
Focusing exclusively on health college students, this study aims to: (1) assess COVID19 health beliefs, knowledge, attitudes, and prevention behaviors; (2) assess differences in COVID-19 health beliefs, knowledge, attitudes, and prevention behaviors according to the general characteristics of health college students; (3) investigate the relationship between COVID-19 health beliefs, knowledge, attitudes, and practice of prevention behavior; (4) identify the factors affecting COVID-19 prevention behavior
Summary
In February 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as designated by the WorldHealth Organization (WHO), led to a pandemic. The pandemic caused functional changes in society, leading to the restriction of large group gatherings in facilities and institutions. It had a great impact on education as classes and practical activities were conducted online in non-face-to-face settings [1]. College students interact in schools and in other settings; they interact with various types of groups in dormitories and part-time work [2]. In-person classes and clinical practice were offered in some schools during the COVID-19 pandemic without proper analysis and preparation of measures for infection prevention, such as infection awareness education [3]. Health college students were frequently in contact with infectious disease patients, possibly leading to the emergence of new cases. Taking infection prevention and management measures to protect college students is very important
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