THE IMPACT OF COERCIVE COVID 19 VACCINATION ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF PEOPLE IN ITAMAGA COMMUNITY, IKORODU, LAGOS

The study aimed to examine the impact of coercive COVID-19 vaccination on the mental health of people in Itamaga community, Ikorodu, Lagos State. The specific objectives were to investigate the perceived mental health effects of vaccination, to understand people's reactions towards the COVID-19 vaccine, and to assess the level of stigma on those who were vaccinated. A survey methodology was employed, with data collected from a sample of 150 respondents in the Itamaga community. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, with frequencies and percentages used to interpret the responses. The findings revealed a significant perception among respondents that COVID-19 vaccination affects mental health. Additionally, a high level of vaccine hesitancy and fear was observed, with many respondents expressing fear of taking the vaccine due to concerns about death or sickness. Stigma associated with vaccination was also prevalent in the community. Based on these findings, it is recommended that mental health support be integrated into vaccination programs, targeted education and communication strategies be implemented to address vaccine hesitancy and fear, and efforts be made to address the stigma associated with vaccination.