Health information-seeking and behaviour among post-secondary students during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction/background: 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. Methods: 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). Results and analysis: 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. Conclusions and implications for policy, practice or additional research: 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.