Knowledge and perceptions of youths towards COVID-19 vaccine in Tshino Village, Limpopo Province

Vaccination is the most effective method of protecting the public against COVID-19. A portion of the youth population is hesitant to get the vaccine for fear of contracting the disease and the myths around the COVID-19 vaccines. Since COVID-19 vaccination has begun worldwide, it is critical to assess the knowledge and perceptions of youth towards the vaccine. Hence, this study assessed the level of knowledge and perceptions of youths in Vuwani towards the COVID-19 vaccine. The study adopted the qualitative approach, exploratory and descriptive research designs, and used convenience sampling. The data collection tool was pretested to test the interviewer's skills and ensure participants understood the questions. Data was analysed using the thematic data analysis technique. Measures to ensure trustworthiness, such as credibility, dependability, conformability, and transferability, were ensured. Ethical principles such as informed consent, confidentiality and anonymity was ensured throughout the study. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the youths hade negative views/ perception about the COVID 19 vaccine . Overall findings revealed that vaccine knowledge among the youth is influenced by a lack of confidence and high levels of complacency toward the COVID-19 vaccine. Participants mistrusted the vaccine’s safety and the perceived intentions of the governments, manufacturers, funders, and promoters. The study recommends community education and engagement , to organise community education and awareness campaigns to provide accurate information about the COVID 19 vaccine , addressing common myths and misconceptions.

Author dc:creator

• Shai, Mmakanaga

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Mudau, A. G.
• Tshivhase, S. E.

• COVID-19
• Knowledge
• Perceptions
• Vaccine
• Youth

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

http://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/123456789/2776

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:123456789/2776