Publication:

Knowledge, attitude and practice among first year MBBS and nursing/paramedical students of GMC Anantnag regarding tetanus vaccination: a cross-sectional study

Background Tetanus is a life-threatening, yet vaccine-preventable disease that continues to contribute in morbidity and mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, and inclusion of booster doses at 10 and 16 years under the UIP, gaps in awareness and vaccination practices persist. Objective of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) regarding tetanus vaccination among first-year MBBS and nursing/paramedical students of Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag.

Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 235 first-year MBBS and nursing/paramedical students at GMC Anantnag from June to July 2025. Data was collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing KAP related to tetanus vaccination. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results The overall mean KAP score was 47.7%, with knowledge (42.5%) and practice (43.0%) scores being suboptimal despite a relatively higher attitude score (63.0%). Female participants demonstrated marginally higher knowledge and attitude scores, whereas males had significantly higher practice scores (p=0.02). No significant gender difference was observed in overall KAP scores.

Conclusions The study revealed inadequate knowledge and practices regarding tetanus vaccination with slightly better attitude scores among first-year students. Strengthening school-based and adolescent health programs, along with routine verification of immunization status during primary care visits, can help improve booster coverage and prevent gaps in protection against tetanus.