Comparative Assessment of Adherence to Vaccination among Russian and Foreign Students of the Medical university

Relevance. Vaccination in modern conditions can protect the population from many infections, but achieving a sufficient level of disease reduction requires adequate population coverage, which depends on the reproductive index of the infection. Public adherence to vaccination is determined by the level of awareness among the population and healthcare workers, as well as by the socio-economic development of the country, its cultural and religious values. Comparative screening studies of public adherence to vaccination across different countries have not been conducted. Objective. The aim of this study is a comparative assessment of the commitment of Russian and foreign medical university students to vaccination. Materials and Methods. A comparative assessment of adherence to vaccination was conducted in 2024 through a screening sociological survey. Respondents from Asia, Africa, and Russia participated in the survey. The study involved 203 respondents from a medical university, of whom 123 were citizens of the Russian Federation and 80 were foreign citizens. The questionnaire included questions on the importance, effectiveness, safety, and attitudes toward vaccination against specific infections. Results. A comparative analysis of adherence to vaccination against various infections among Russian and foreign citizens revealed significant differences in attitudes toward vaccination. Foreign respondents more often expressed positive attitudes toward vaccination against hepatitis B, pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, and other infections, whereas Russian respondents, despite a higher rate of actual vaccinations, frequently expressed doubts or negative attitudes. The most pronounced differences were observed regarding vaccination against COVID-19 and human papillomavirus (HPV), where Russian citizens demonstrated lower levels of trust. Differences were also found in sources of information: Russian citizens more frequently relied on medical institutions and official websites, whereas foreigners were more likely to trust physicians’ recommendations and online resources. Conclusion. The comparative analysis showed a generally high level of adherence to vaccination among respondents in both groups, but with marked differences for specific infections. Foreign citizens were more likely to have a positive attitude toward immunization against hepatitis B and COVID-19, while Russian citizens showed greater adherence to vaccination against pertussis, diphtheria, influenza, and tick-borne encephalitis. Differences in sources of information, levels of doubt, and negative attitudes toward vaccination highlight the need for a differentiated approach in public health education targeting various population groups.

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