Knowledge and Attitude Towards COVID-19 Vaccine: A Cross-Sectional Study of Students at a Tertiary Educational Institution in Nigeria

Abstract

The level of the COVID-19 vaccine uptake in African countries and especially Nigeria is still considerably low, when compared with other developed countries, despite the established fact on its efficacy in protecting the populace from the negative consequences of the disease. This research investigated the knowledge and attitudes of students at Ondo State College of Health Technology regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. Adopting a descriptive survey design, the study targeted Technician students from six departments, with 300 participants selected via random sampling. Data were gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire, “Trainee Health Workers Knowledge and Attitude Questionnaire,” addressing four research questions and seven hypotheses. Frequency counts, percentages, and charts were used for analysis, while Chi Square was used to test hypotheses at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed a high acceptance rate of the COVID-19 vaccine among students, though fewer had taken the second and booster doses. Participants demonstrated high knowledge and positive attitudes toward the vaccine, with low levels of misconceptions. Gender and age did not significantly influence students' knowledge or attitudes. However, the course of study significantly affected their knowledge and attitudes toward the vaccine. Additionally, there was a significant relationship between knowledge and attitude, indicating that knowledge does not necessarily equate to willingness to accept the vaccine. Recommendations included increasing exposure to valid information about the COVID-19 vaccine and conducting college-wide sensitization campaigns to persuade unvaccinated students by emphasizing the vaccine's importance. These efforts should particularly target those with remaining misconceptions.