OBJECTIVES: The students at a Private, Midwestern University pursuing health professions program are mandated to receive influenza vaccination. Our objective was to survey these students on their attitude, awareness and behavior towards influenza vaccination.

METHODS: This cross-sectional online survey included both campus and online students, and the distribution was done using a modified Dillman’s technique in which an invitation e-mail with two follow-up e-mails were sent to the non-respondents. A 24-item survey was pilot tested and modified with the inputs of 11 students. Descriptive and comparative statistics were performed on all the responses, along with the qualitative analysis of open-ended responses. The study was approved by the university’s Institutional Review Board.

RESULTS: Data of 1258 students from medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other health profession schools were included in the analysis. Out of 325 students who experienced influenza like symptoms, 17.5% received anti-viral medications, while 62.8% received over-the-counter medications. In 2016-17 flu season, 89% of the students reported having received vaccination, and in 2017-18, 97.5% of the students reported as having received, or had the intent to receive influenza vaccination. Students attributed receiving vaccination to requirement of their academic program, reducing the risk of contracting influenza and to free of cost vaccines at their workplace and the university’s clinic. Not getting vaccinated was linked with 'forgetting' to receive the vaccine and not considering themselves at a 'risk to contract influenza.' Students believed that promotion by the university with posters and e-mails, and interacting with people in healthcare professions would influence their vaccination decisions.

CONCLUSIONS: Health professionals may influence student population in their decision to receive a vaccination. Targeted promotional efforts directed towards the future health professionals are essential to prepare them to promote vaccinations.