Post-pandemic Knowledge, Myths, and Misconceptions about COVID-19 Vaccines: A Cross- sectional Analysis of Determinants Among Residents in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Vaccines are crucial for improving health outcomes and life expectancy by controlling and preventing communicable diseases, including COVID-19. Understanding misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine is essential for effective risk communication to the public. This study aimed to assess post-pandemic myths, misconceptions, and knowledge of COVID-19 vaccination among residents of Osun State, Southwestern Nigeria.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 residents of Osun State, Southwestern Nigeria, between July 2023 and January 2024. A multistage sampling technique was used for participant selection. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and analysed with IBM SPSS Statistics 27.0. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed, with statistical significance set at p<0.05.

Results: Good knowledge of COVID-19 vaccines was observed in 50.5% of respondents, while 54.0% held at least one misconception, predominantly at a low level. In bivariate analysis, age, residence, and perceived importance of accurate vaccine information were associated with misconception status. In multivariable analysis, respondents aged 40 years and older had lower odds of good knowledge (AOR=0.155, 95% CI: 0.031-0.764), whereas secondary education (AOR=2.378, 95% CI: 1.020-5.541) and urban residence (AOR=1.581, 95% CI: 1.039-2.045) were associated with higher odds of good knowledge.

Conclusion: Post-pandemic COVID-19 vaccine knowledge was moderate, while misconceptions remained common but were usually low-level. Sustained, targeted public health communication, particularly for rural populations and groups that place lower importance on accurate vaccine information, may help address persistent misconceptions.