Abstract
Background: As Covid-19 causes increased morbidity and mortality, vaccination status is at the forefront of preventive action. However, approximately 52% of residents still need to be vaccinated in Mississippi. These rates are even higher among the 18–24-year-old demographic, where only 38% have reported full vaccination.Purpose: This study aimed to assess the underlying reasons for COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy among college students in the 18-24-year-old demographic.Methods: A 21-item survey was administered to college students at a large southeastern university to assess their beliefs and vaccination status regarding COVID-19.Results: Regarding safety, intention, and severity of COVID-19, statistical significance was found between those college students who were vaccinated and those who were not.Conclusion: Several identified reasons for vaccination hesitancy were derived from perceptions and beliefs on vaccine safety, intentions, and severity of COVID-19. To increase the number of vaccinations among the 18-24-year-old demographic, communication from medical providers, close family members, and university communication may be the most effective.
Recommended Citation
Hernandez, Olivia Rosemary; Gardner, Antonio J.; Pylate, Leah B. P.; and Hunt, Barry P.
(2023)
"Assessment of College Students in Understanding Beliefs, Behaviors, and Key Levels of Influence regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake,"
Journal of Public Health in the Deep South: Vol. 3:
No.
1, Article 4.
Available at:
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/jphds/vol3/iss1/4