Uptake of the COVID-2019 Vaccines Among College Students: Assessing Health Beliefs and Reasons for Vaccine Uptake

Abstract

Background: College students are susceptible to airborne infectious diseases due to a communal living or learning environment. Adherence to vaccine regimens could safeguard population health in college communities. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between COVID-19 vaccine uptake and health beliefs among university students using the Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs. The secondary objectives were to identify sources of health information on COVID-19 and reasons for vaccine uptake. Methods: A cross-sectional study was implemented among students at a university in the Northeastern region of the United States. The online survey assessed perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy. Data analyses include qualitative, descriptive statistics, and logistic regression. Results: Of the 385 participants, 266 (69.1%) were within the age range of 20-29 years old. Three HBM constructs predicted vaccine uptake: (1) perceived benefits (aOR 5.02, 95% CI [2.86, 8.82], p = < 0.001), (2) perceived barriers (aOR 0.24, 95% CI [0.14, 0.42], p = <0.001), and (3) cues to action (aOR 4.36, 95% CI [1.92, 9.93], p = <0.001). The reason for vaccine uptake included protecting themselves and the community. A primary source of information varied in the study population. Conclusion: The study findings may inform college administ rators' decision-making to incorporate effective health promotion methods for vaccine uptake.