Knowledge levels and attitudes of university students towards COVID-19 virus, COVID-19 vaccine, and protection from COVID-19 virus

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to examine the knowledge levels and attitudes of university students towards COVID-19 virus, COVID-19 vaccine, and protection from COVID-19 virus. It also aims to compare the knowledge and attitudes of students according to department, grade, worried about getting COVID-19, and following the COVID-19 cases on a daily basis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between 22 November 2020 and 6 January 2021 with 322 university students in the health sciences school of a state university. The online survey included general information of students and items about their knowledge and attitudes towards COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The students' level of knowledge about COVID-19 was high (83 ± 12 on 100 points) and their attitudes were positive and above average (3.85 ± 0.48 on 5-point Likert scale). Their attitudes towards vaccination were also found to be slightly over the average and positive. The knowledge and attitudes of the students differed significantly according to the department, grade and factors related to COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: The results of this study reveal that participants have a high level of knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic, but are hesitant about vaccination. It is recommended to improve university students’ attitudes towards COVID-19 virus, vaccination, and protection in a positive way by increasing their awareness.