ABSTRACT

Vaccine development, distribution, and immunization of large populations have been identified as vital mitigation strategies for curbing the spread of COVID-19. However, vaccine hesitancy is a major barrier to this. The knowledge and o attitude towards COVID-19 vaccines can improve vaccine acceptance. The purpose of this study was to assess undergraduate medical students’ knowledge, attitude, and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines. This study was an observational cross-sectional questionnaire-based study done in the University of Benin from February 2024 to April 2024. A total of 370 participants were included in the study. The result from the analysis shows 81% (300) of respondents have heard of the COVID-19 vaccine, while 19% (70) have not. With 55.1% (204) of respondents strongly agree that taking COVID-19 vaccines is part of their responsibility in building a COVID-19 free university, the attitude towards COVID-19 vaccines among students appears generally positive. These findings provide valuable insight for public health efforts aimed at increasing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake. While positive attitudes towards vaccination were prevalent, challenges related to accessibility, information dissemination, and cultural beliefs need to be addressed to enhance vaccine uptake. The findings underscore the importance of targeted educational interventions, improved access to vaccination services, and culturally sensitive approaches in promoting vaccination among students and the wider population.

KEYWORDS: Knowledge, attitude, acceptance, COVID-19 vaccines, medical students.