The impact of different brands of covid-19 vaccination on public health outcomes: analyzing the effectiveness and side effects of these vaccines among ksmu students and their perspectives towards covid vaccinations

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of vaccines in reducing infection rates and improving public health outcomes. This study focuses on the impact of different COVID-19 vaccine brands among students at Kursk State Medical University (KSMU). The research investigates vaccine effectiveness in preventing infection, the occurrence of side effects, and medical students’ perspectives regarding vaccination. Understanding these elements is essential to ensure effective vaccination campaigns among future healthcare professionals. Methods and Materials: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured online questionnaire. The sample comprised 65 foreign medical students from KSMU across various academic levels. The survey included questions on vaccine types, demographics, side effects, infection history, and personal perceptions. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the trends in vaccine effectiveness, side effects, and student attitudes. Results: Of the 65 respondents, 95.4% were vaccinated with at least one dose, with Pfizer-BioNTech, Sputnik Light, and Sinovac being the most common vaccines. Among vaccinated students, 62.9% reported side effects, including fever, fatigue, and muscle pain. Reinfection occurred in 32.8% of vaccinated participants, predominantly after the third dose. Despite this, 65.1% of students believed vaccines effectively prevent COVID-19, and 98.4% encouraged others to get vaccinated. Conclusion: The study concludes that COVID-19 vaccines, particularly booster doses, significantly reduce reinfection rates and severity of illness. Mixed and same-brand vaccine regimens demonstrated comparable effectiveness. However, persistent reinfection rates highlight the need for continued public health efforts, including booster campaigns and transparent communication to address hesitancy and misconceptions.