Knowledge, attitude and practice among phase III part I medical students regarding immunisation and National Immunisation Schedule: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Immunisation remains one of the most cost-effective public health strategies. Despite its inclusion in the MBBS curriculum, gaps persist in the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAPs) of medical students regarding immunisation. As future healthcare providers, they have a crucial role in vaccine advocacy and in strengthening immunisation efforts. The objective of the study is to assess the KAP regarding immunisation among phase III part I MBBS students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 113 phase III part I MBBS students using a pre-validated structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and expressed as proportions. A total of 113 students participated, including 72 (63.7%) males and 41 (36.3%) females. Among them, 110 (97.3%) students had a correct understanding of vaccine mechanisms, 98 (86.7%) had knowledge about birth vaccines under the National Immunization Schedule and 94 (83.2%) were aware of live-attenuated vaccines. Knowledge of herd immunity was present in 110 (97.3%) students. Positive attitudes were observed, with more than 100 (>90%) students agreeing that vaccines are safe and effective. In terms of practice, 110 (97.3%) students recommended vaccination to family and friends, but only 28 (24.8%) had participated in immunisation activities and 18 (15.9%) had observed adverse events following immunisation. While the knowledge and attitudes of MBBS students toward immunisation are generally adequate, deficiencies persist in practical implementation. This highlights the need to enhance experiential learning to bridge the gap between theory and practice.