European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Introduction: COVID-19 vaccines have emerged as a key strategy, being the most effective public health intervention in preventing the massive humanitarian crisis. Thus, as a part of preventive measure, government of India had launched COVID-19vaccines on 16 January 2021.Indeed vaccine hesitancy is one of the most significant barriers for success of any immunization drive. Hence, in view of the recent surge in Covid19 cases in our country, this study was planned to assess the awareness, hesitancy and acceptance attitudes ofCOVID-19vaccine among Medical Students (MS) of Maharashtra.
Methodology: This was a cross sectional study. Data was collected using self-reported, structured questionnaire from 356 MS through online Google form. Data were extracted, transferred and analysed using appropriate statistical tool.
Results: The study reported 83.43%vaccine acceptance and 16.57% of hesitancy among MS. Furthermore, the main source of COVID-19 vaccine information was social media followed by government web sites. Majority 91.57% of the students were aware of different types of COVID-19vaccines available in our country. However 62.62% MS among acceptance group were willing to get vaccinated through college or university health centre. Beside the main reason for hesitancy was fear of adverse reactions.  Moreover the hesitant group was uncertain about safety and efficacy of available vaccines.
Conclusion: High acceptance was shown among MS regarding COVID-19 vaccine; however, it is critical to alleviate uncertainties among hesitant MS by continuous education, encouragement and motivation. Consequently, planning and implementation of strategies to further amplify the vaccination rate among medical student is vital to augment the COVID-19 vaccination drive in our country.