Knowledge, behaviour and misuse of antibiotics among Yarmouk University students in Jordan in the post-COVID-19 era: A cross sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic misuse is a major global health concern that contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly among young adults who have easy access to medications. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and misuse of antibiotics among Yarmouk University students in Jordan following the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to Yarmouk University students. A total of 1070 participants completed a structured questionnaire addressing demographics, knowledge, attitudes and practices related to antibiotic use, including perceptions and practices related to antibiotic use during the post-COVID-19 period. Descriptive statistics were generated and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed for key estimates using the standard normal (Wald) approximation.

RESULTS

More than half of the students (53.2%, 95% CI: 50.2-56.2%) continue to use antibiotics for common cold and influenzae and 53% (95% CI: 50.0-56.0%) expected healthcare providers to prescribe antibiotics for these conditions. Although most students were aware that antibiotic overuse leads to resistance (79.0%, 95% CI: 76.5-81.4%), many misunderstood its broader community impact.

CONCLUSION

Antibiotic resistance remains an underestimated public health issue. There is still much work needed to raise more awareness regarding safety and proper antibiotic usage in Jordan among different group of the population starting with young adults and university students who will have a major role in bridging the gap for action on antibiotic resistance.