KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF PAKISTANI GENERAL POPULATION ASSOCIATED WITH COVID-19; A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To know the knowledge, attitude and practices of Pakistani general population associated with COVID-19 outbreak and its correlation in different age groups, genders and educational status.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Online survey based study conducted in Pakistan, from Mar to May 2020.

Methodology: Self administered questionnaire using the Google Forms was used to get the responses from online enrolled participants. Questionnaire included general questions regarding disease etiology, symptomatology, transmission and prevention along with general questions regarding respondent’s attitude and practices. Data was downloaded on Microsoft Excel Spread sheet and analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.

Results: Age ranged from 15 to 68 years with a mean of 30.5 ± 9.1 years. The mean knowledge score was 8.5 ± 0.8. Out of total 285 participants 180 (63.2 %) individuals had adequate knowledge while 105 (36.8%) individuals had inadequate knowledge about COVID-19 outbreak. Attitude and practices were optimal and positive among the majority of the participants.

Conclusion: Our study reported an optimal level of knowledge and an optimistic attitude among the literate group of Pakistani general population. Moreover, we highlighted the knowledge gaps among the general public which would help the authorities to spread mass awareness regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic.