Study to Assess Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Covid-19 among General Population

ABSTRACT

Background: The novel corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) presented as an emergent threat to global health. It was necessary to identify level of public awareness on disease prevention to mitigate the pandemic. Until then, no vaccine or effective drug were available for the control, prevention, and treatment of COVID-19. Preventive measures were the only way out. Objective(s) a) To study knowledge of people regarding COVID-19. b) To study attitude of people towards lockdown. c) To assess practices of people in taking preventive measures for COVID-19. Method(s) A cross sectional study was carried out among general population. Sample size was calculated using the formula 4pq/l2 where, p= proportion of people having knowledge regarding COVID-19 THAT IS 50%. Minimum calculated sample size was 205. Data was collected using pre- tested, structured questionnaire through online portal. Study was approved by Institutional Ethics committee. Result(s) The present study included a total of 249 subjects in which subjects' age varies from 18-65+ years. Maximum number of subjects held a graduate degree 214 (86%). More than 80% study subjects were aware about contagious nature of COVID-19, practice of social distancing, usage of sanitizer and vaccination. 66.7% subjects were using N95 marks and more than 60% were vaccinated. 69% opined that strict lockdown should be enforced. Conclusion(s) Present study had some shortfall in knowledge among subjects regarding some aspects of COVID-19. Therefore, there was an obligation for awareness that can be directed via health education and training programs. Copyright © 2022 Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications. All rights reserved.