Attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge about MMR vaccination among university students: Findings from a cross-sectional survey.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of health science students at a regional Queensland university regarding measles, mumps, and rubella, as well as their understanding of occupational immunisation requirements.

METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted, collecting quantitative data via an online questionnaire from July 2023 to May 2024.

RESULTS: Students demonstrated limited knowledge of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) transmission, severity and treatment. While 67.27 % (n=37) recognised the seriousness of MMR, only 40.38 % (n=21) understood that infection confers lifelong immunity. Despite knowledge gaps, 59 % (n=23) supported vaccination for those lacking MMR antibodies, and 75 % (n=30) would recommend immunity testing.

CONCLUSIONS: There are critical gaps in MMR knowledge and awareness of occupational immunisation among health science students.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH: Gaps in MMR knowledge among health science students present a risk to public health during clinical placements. Strengthening immunisation education in health curricula and promoting immunity testing and vaccination are vital for ensuring future healthcare workers are adequately prepared to protect themselves and their patients, and to prevent transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases in healthcare settings.