Knowledge and perceptions of the importance of vaccination among Medical students in a private medical school

Abstract

Objective: To assess knowledge and perceptions regarding the importance of vaccination among medical students at a private institution, as well as their role as information disseminators, and to identify factors associated with non-adherence and vaccine hesitancy. Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted with 107 medical students from a private institution in Aracaju, Brazil. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire addressing sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, vaccination coverage, perceptions and practices. Data were analyzed using R, with simple linear regressions (p < 0.05). Results: Knowledge significantly increased with academic progression. Vaccination coverage was high for essential vaccines, although lower for influenza. Vaccine recommendation and communication of benefits were frequent (68.2%), whereas communication of adverse effects was limited (31.8%). Vaccine hesitancy was low, and no significant association was found between risk perception and adherence. Conclusion: Students showed good knowledge and high vaccination adherence, with improvement throughout training. However, gaps remain in risk communication. Educational strategies should strengthen communication skills.