
Bukutu, Cecilia
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2022-06-14
<p><i>Introduction/background:</i></p>
<p>The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant global impact on the health and wellness of the population. Limited published literature exists on the information-seeking behaviour during the pandemic, of young adults, who were at start of the pandemic thought to be less susceptible to COVID-19. This study sought to bridge this gap by administering a survey among postsecondary students in Alberta. The study examined health-related information needs, preferred information sources, and behavioural efforts to prevent COVID-19 and maintain a healthy lifestyle during the pandemic.</p>
<p><i>Methods:</i></p>
<p>A cross-sectional study was conducted in Alberta among postsecondary students in March 2021. Using convenience sampling a link to a pre-validated questionnaire was posted on Alberta based post-secondary institutions online social media platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn).</p>
<p><i>Results and analysis:</i></p>
<p>A total 573 postsecondary students completed the survey. For COVID-19 related information students relied on instant messaging applications such as WhatsApp (52%) and print media (52%). Information on COVID-19 vaccine availability and safety and the changes in by-laws was reported to be vital by 70% of respondents. The preferred COVID-19 information source (60%) was the internet, namely official health websites (e.g., Alberta Health Services). Challenges to accessing COVID-19 information were too many conspiracy theories about COVID-19 (60%) and contradicting information from online sources (53%). Students reported an increase in consumption of fast food (38%); sitting and screen time (82%), time spent in searching for general health-related information (50%); use of natural health products (32%) and a decrease in the time dedicated to physical activities (49%). Over 23.7% of students reported being unsure or would not get the COVID-19 vaccine, while 35% of responded were either unsure or believed vaccines were unsafe.</p>
<p><i>Conclusions and implications for policy, practice or additional research:</i></p>
<p>As post-secondary institutions and public health professionals prepare for in-person classes, after a year of predominantly online learning these results provide baseline information that can be used to plan and communicate appropriate interventions (e.g., targeted vaccination campaigns) and support strategies that mitigate COVID-19 outbreaks and keep students informed and healthy.</p>
This dataset is restricted. Please consult the access guidelines document in order to learn more about why this is, under what conditions access will be allowed, and the process for requesting access.