Application of SARS-CoV-2 prevention and control measures among university students of a public institution in Ceara, Brazil

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Universities are favorable environments for the spread of highly transmissible acute respiratory infections, such as COVID-19. Objective: To evaluate the application of COVID-19 prevention and control measures among students from a public university in the state of Ceara, Brazil. Method: This is a cross-sectional study developed with undergraduate students, regularly enrolled in semester 2020.1, in remote (non-face-to-face) activities. To calculate the sample, a population of 30,152 students was considered, a confidence of 95%, 3% sampling error and 50% expected frequency of use of protection and control measures against COVID-19 (n = 1,031). Of the 2,097 responses received, 360 were lost and 1,737 were analyzed. Data collection was carried out in December 2020, through an electronic questionnaire, available online, for this purpose. A descriptive analysis of the researched aspects was carried out. Results: Although 91.2% of students reported that they always wore a mask when leaving the house, only 1.4% complied with all the recommendations for its correct handling. 43.3% reported washing their hands according to the recommendations of the health authorities, but others' personal hygiene measures were insufficient;65.4% reported that they used to go out to participate in activities that were not of extreme necessity;and 70.0% were public transport users. Conclusions: The evidence found predisposes university students to risks in the face of this pandemic.