Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 Vaccine Experiences and Safety-Related Reports on Vaccine Confidence among Nursing Students in Delta State College of Nursing Science Agbor, Nigeria

Background: Vaccine confidence is crucial for public health but remains a challenge in developing nations like Nigeria. This study explores vaccination confidence among nursing students at Delta State College of Nursing Science, Agbor. focusing on trends experiences with vaccines and potential impacts on future vaccination decisions. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 279 nursing students at DSCNSA was conducted on vaccination experiences, exposure to and impact of safety-related information about COVID-19 vaccines. Results: Only 37.3% had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, primarily Moderna and Pfizer, although 47.1% could not remember the brand. A total of 52.8% reported experiencing mild side effects, and one student reported having a seizure. Although many students expressed concerns about safety and efficacy, 91.7% showed a positive perception towards vaccination. Also, 93.6% of the 84.2% who are aware of COVID-19 safety/risk reports trusted the sources, 95.3% say it impacted their overall confidence in vaccines, and 55.1% are truly sceptical about future vaccinations. Vaccine perception shared association with history of COVID-19 vaccination (P = 0.0280). Females were more influenced by safety concerns while males were more likely to consider future vaccinations. Vaccine confidence also varied by religious affiliation, student year, and side effects experienced after COVID-19 vaccination, with those experiencing mild side effects showing a higher inclination to receive future vaccinations. Conclusion: This study indicates that Nigerian nursing students have mixed views on vaccines with concerns about safety and efficacy remaining prominent. Addressing these concerns through accurate information is essential to boosting vaccine confidence.