Clinical Immunology & Research
Open AccessFactors Associated with the Refusal of Vaccination Against COVID-19 Among Students of The Faculty of Health Sciences of Congo
Authors: Ange clauvel Niama, Yvonne Valérie Yolande Mavoungou, Gilbert Ndziessi, Kévine Ikoungou, Chéripin Ngamille, Sophie Bayonne.
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 is responsible for high morbidity and mortality. Vaccination is the main response strategy. Vaccination coverage remains low. This study investigated the factors for refusal of COVID-19 vaccination among health sciences students.
Methodology: This was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted from July to October 2021. The cluster method was used and the Schwartz formula was used to obtain the minimum sample size. Socio-demographic, socio-cultural and vaccination status variables were collected. Statistical analysis was performed with Epi Info 7.2.2.6 software. The significance level was set at 5%
Results: A total of 423 students were included. Vaccination coverage was 12.77%. The rate of students refractory to vaccination was 45.62%. Females were in the majority (54.40% vs 54.60%). The factors associated with refusal of the COVID-19 vaccination in our study were: lack of knowledge of the vaccines available in Congo (ORa=1.601 [1.009-2.539]; p=0.0453), perception of the uselessness of the vaccine (ORa=6.055 [3.646-10.055]; p < 0.0001) and the unavailability of the vaccine the student wishes to receive (ORa=2.652 [1.365-5.152]; p = 0.004).
Conclusion: This study reveals low vaccination coverage and almost half of the students were refractory to vaccination against COVID-19. Awareness and involvement of students in health sciences who are public health actors are necessary to improve this vaccination coverage.
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