scholarly journals Adequacy of preventive measures, awareness, and attitude regarding the COVID-19 pandemic among university pharmacy students

2021 ◽  
pp. 283-289
Author(s):  
Saba Tariq ◽  
Sundus Tariq ◽  
Mukhtiar Baig ◽  
Saadia Shahzad Alam

Introduction: The aim was to investigate the adequacy of preventive measures, awareness, and attitudes of pharmacy university students in the Punjab province, Pakistan, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was designed at a private university in Faisalabad, Pakistan. The questionnaire was developed on Google forms and distributed to students of five universities in the Punjab province via WhatsApp groups. Results: The comparison of COVID-19 knowledge for specific questions showed that non-pharmacy students (NPS) had significantly better knowledge about the source of the virus (p<0.001), while pharmacy students (PS) had better knowledge regarding COVID-19 treatment (p=0.01). The PS’s perception of the dangerousness and risk of contracting COVID-19 infection was better than NPS’s perception (p=0.026; p=0.019, respectively). The regression analysis revealed that the knowledge score was negatively associated with the female gender, and females were less likely to have a positive attitude. Conclusion: The authors’ results suggest that PS had good knowledge, positive attitude, and preparedness towards COVID-19. However, there are still misconceptions and confusion about the disease.

Author(s):  
Pratibha Srivastava

Today's Children will be tomorrow's responsible citizen of the country. Entertainment is an essential part of life, by this we feel tension free, relaxed, energetic and having a positive attitude towards life. Games plays an important role for the all round development of the children's personality especially outdoor games but Now a days children are adopting habits of playing indoor games and also entertaining themselves by using various electronic devices as we know one of them is television. There are various programmes such as various kids’ channels, cartoon shows, video games etc. being watched by the children. Directly or indirectly these programs affect behaviour of the children in positive and negative ways. That’s why it is needed that parents should have a look for types of programmes seen by children, how long a child is watching a program, how it is affecting child habits/ behaviour etc. Later on, these negative impacts will create health issues/behaviour problems such as obesity, aggressive behaviour, lack of concentration etc. Child who watch television for 10 hours or more per week are less skilled at reading and are less successful in school as compared to children who watch television for less than 10 hours per week. The American academy of paediatrics makes the following recommendations regarding television viewing should not exceed one to two hours of quality programming daily and children younger than two years old should not watch television.1 That is why researchers took this topic to highlight the attitude and knowledge of parents about the impact of television on their Children's behaviour. A co-relational study conducted to assess parental knowledge and attitude regarding the impact of television on children in selected area at Kanpur (U.P). A descriptive cross-sectional survey approach was used, sample size was 100 parents selected by convenient sampling for this study. Self-structured knowledge questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge of parents, and attitude of parents was assessed by Likert scale. The study shows that among 100 parents 8% of them had poor knowledge, 36% average knowledge, 50% good knowledge, 6% very good knowledge about impact of television on children. The study shown the positive attitude 84%, negative attitude 16% on impact of television on children. The correlation value shows that positive correlation between knowledge and attitude score of parents. There was no significant association between knowledge score with their demographic variables and significant association seen between attitude score with types of family, educational status of parents, income of parents and number of children. There was no significant association between attitude score with age of parents and religion. KEYWORDS: Impact, Television, Attitude, Parental Knowledge,


Author(s):  
Nowshin Sharmila ◽  
Shah Ehsan Habib

Background: Dengue remains a major public health challenge causing death among many people in Bangladesh. The magnitude of dengue-related illness and death has significantly increased over recent years. Study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to Dengue fever. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a total of 193 males and females who consented to participate in the study. Respondents were included purposively from selected areas in Malibagh an area classified as a stable dengue-prone region of the capital city. The survey was carried out by face-to-face interview using a pre-tested standardized and structured questionnaire. Results: The results reveal that dengue infection occurred in 20.2% of residents. Only 27.5% had a good knowledge score (8 out of 11 items), and 83.9% had a positive attitude, while 34.2% had a good compliance practice.  Knowledge was significantly associated with education, income, and age (p < 0.05). Misconceptions existed about the transmission of dengue – more than one-third (36.8%) reported that the Aedes aegypti mosquito could only breed in clean water, and 32.1% were aware of the biting time of the mosquito. Most participants (55.4%) strongly agreed that dengue is a serious illness, and over half (65.3%) reported that it could be prevented with coverage of vector control interventions. The majority (64.2%) used mosquito nets as a preventive measure, while over one-third (35.2%) reported they discarded waste, containers, and non-used bottles across their yards that hold water. Although the respondents had quite positive attitude of preventive measures regarding dengue (83.9%), a sizeable number (34.2%) did not put this attitude into practice. Conclusion: Poorly planned urbanization combined with an explosive urban population in the capital city has brought the mosquito and the human host into close proximity. The government should launch health education programs on dengue prevention to educate the community members, addressing misconceptions about their preventive measures and on how they could eliminate the risk factors related to practices.


Author(s):  
Devanshi Chowdhary ◽  
Ankita Sharma ◽  
L. Gopichandran

Background: According to WHO, the prevention and control of an epidemic and pandemic constitutes following preventive measures like hand washing, cough etiquette and dissemination of knowledge among other measures. In context to COVID-19, these measures have been proved to be very effective rendering various countries to be free of COVID-19. The knowledge, attitude and practice studies play an important role in assessing the societal readiness to accept behavioural changes, moreover they also determine baseline information to assess the actions to be taken to change the attitude and increase the knowledge of the people regarding the situation. Thus this study was undertaken to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of the common public in India.Methods: A cross sectional survey was done among the attenders of patients visiting the cardiac/CTVS OPD during the month of June to July.  A total of 200 patients attendants were enrolled in the study. Due to COVID-19 restrictions only 10 patients per day were enrolled. After obtaining informed consent an online questionnaire was sent to their mobile phones via electronic media and participants were requested to fill the questionnaire while waiting for the doctor’s visit. The knowledge, attitude and practice of the participants were assessed by a validated KAP survey questionnaire.Results: The participants had a good knowledge score. The mean knowledge score (minimum, maximum) among the population was 7.7±1.7 (0, 11) though the participants had a poor practice score of 2.3±1.01 (0, 4). The participants had a positive attitude regarding the preventive practices regarding COVID-19 and also a positive attitude towards health care workers. The mean attitude score was 21.3±3.5 (5, 25). A significant positive correlation (r=0.263) was found between knowledge and practice scores. A significant association was also found in between the age with attitude and practice scores, and also in between qualification with knowledge and total KAP score.Conclusions: The present study concludes that people have good knowledge regarding the various aspects of COVID-19, also there was positive correlation of knowledge with practice. Hence it is important to disseminate right knowledge regarding the pandemic COVID-19 so that general public performs the appropriate practices in order to keep themselves and their near ones safe. This study reflects the awareness of general public in the difficult time, as well as their helping attitude towards healthcare professionals in form of providing accommodation etc. Community awareness, participation and preparedness are key factors in achieving a good health for all. 


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 93-103
Author(s):  
S.M. Farzana ◽  
Farzana Binte Sahid ◽  
Devaroti Bhattacherjee ◽  
Tasniya Nahiyan Zulfiquar ◽  
Sanjida Haque ◽  
...  

Background: Dengue fever (DF) is the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral disease in the world. In this decade it has expanded to new countries and from urban to rural areas. Limited awareness and nonsystematized health education programmes have contributed adversely to the increase in dengue incidence due to limited attention which has positively contributed to the increase in vector receptivity. The current study was conducted to ascertain the knowledge, attitudes and Preventive measures regarding Dengue fever among the students of various universities in Bangladesh. Study design: A cross-sectional survey was carried out to assess the Knowledge, Awareness and Preventive measures (KAP) among the students of various universities in Bangladesh. Methodology: Between August 2020 & November 2020, an epidemiological survey was conducted among 199 students of various universities throughout Bangladesh. We collected information on the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents and their knowledge, attitude and Preventive measures regarding DF using a structured questionnaire. Majority of the questions were dichotomous (Yes/No type) and some questions were asked using five point Likert scale.  We then statistically compared their knowledge, attitude and Preventive measures in regard to socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents to identify possible causes of observed differences using SPSS version 23. Results: Total number of students from Diploma, Undergraduate (Honor's), Postgraduate (Master's) were 199 who had given voluntary consent and participated in this study willingly.  The sample comprised more males (56%) than females (44%), and almost 50% of respondents were from allied health science (Pharmacy, Microbiology, Public health, Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry etc) background. Respondents had relatively good knowledge about aspects of Dengue fever. Out of 199 individuals interviewed, 97% had heard of DF. They had good knowledge score regarding dengue symptoms but comparatively moderate knowledge score regarding dengue transmission and management. The knowledge, attitude and Preventive measures level of study respondents was found statistically significant in relation to the academic attainment of the respondents. Conclusion: We recommend implementing mass educational programmes throughout the country in order to raise the awareness and to translate knowledge into sound practice to control dengue disease epidemics in Bangladesh.


Author(s):  
Nowshin Sharmila ◽  
Shah Ehsan Habib

Background: Dengue remains a major public health challenge causing death among many people in Bangladesh. The magnitude of dengue-related illness and death has significantly increased over recent years. Study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to Dengue fever. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a total of 193 males and females who consented to participate in the study. Respondents were included purposively from selected areas in Malibagh an area classified as a stable dengue-prone region of the capital city. The survey was carried out by face-to-face interview using a pre-tested standardized and structured questionnaire. Results: The results reveal that dengue infection occurred in 20.2% of residents. Only 27.5% had a good knowledge score (8 out of 11 items), and 83.9% had a positive attitude, while 34.2% had a good compliance practice.  Knowledge was significantly associated with education, income, and age (p < 0.05). Misconceptions existed about the transmission of dengue – more than one-third (36.8%) reported that the Aedes aegypti mosquito could only breed in clean water, and 32.1% were aware of the biting time of the mosquito. Most participants (55.4%) strongly agreed that dengue is a serious illness, and over half (65.3%) reported that it could be prevented with coverage of vector control interventions. The majority (64.2%) used mosquito nets as a preventive measure, while over one-third (35.2%) reported they discarded waste, containers, and non-used bottles across their yards that hold water. Although the respondents had quite positive attitude of preventive measures regarding dengue (83.9%), a sizeable number (34.2%) did not put this attitude into practice. Conclusion: Poorly planned urbanization combined with an explosive urban population in the capital city has brought the mosquito and the human host into close proximity. The government should launch health education programs on dengue prevention to educate the community members, addressing misconceptions about their preventive measures and on how they could eliminate the risk factors related to practices.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Latifa Alhowaish ◽  
Aziza Aljohar ◽  
Mostafa Arafa ◽  
Lujane Almarshed ◽  
Reem Binrabbaa ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: The single most chronic disease impacting children on an international scale is dental caries; there are alerts to deaths of children as a result of the complications caused by dental caries, despite the fact that this disease is completely preventable. This study aims to evaluate physicians’ dental knowledge, preventive measures they would provide and their referral patterns to paediatric dentists.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Certified paediatricians and general practitioners (GPs) from different sectors were invited to participate. The survey comprised 24 questions, distributed into 5 sections; demographic data, dental knowledge, participation in oral preventive measures, case scenarios and one question about participants’ opinion in implementing oral health rotations in the paediatric residency program. Results: 406 physicians participated in the study. Only 4.4 % of the participants answered all the knowledge questions correctly, the mean correct knowledge score was 2.95 ± 0.9937 out of 5. No significant difference was detected in the total knowledge score according to gender (P= 0.315), specialty and years of experience (P= 0.463 and 0.985 respectively). Common causes for referral were dental pain or swelling (67%) followed by a child with dental caries (43.6%). Less than 60% of the respondents would refer children to any dentist in the same hospital, while only 28 % only advise parents to consult a dentist. Most physicians suggested the addition of an oral health rotation in the medical residency program.Conclusions: The current level of oral health knowledge is not satisfactory to provide effective paediatric patients referrals to dentists, although their attitude towards providing oral preventive measures is good. Oral health knowledge and engagement should be emphasized in medical schools. Early and correct referral can be effective in preventing oral disease. The integration of oral health in undergraduate and specialty training curricula is vital to achieve disease prevention goals.


Author(s):  
Muhammad Muslih ◽  
Henny Dwi Susanti ◽  
Yohanes Andy Rias ◽  
Min-Huey Chung

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a pandemic. We examined the KAP’s relationship with factors associated with practice toward the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. This cross-sectional survey study was conducted between March and April 2020 and included 1033 participants. Knowledge scores of COVID-19 were positively associated with wearing a mask when leaving home (odds ratio (OR): 1.22, p < 0.05). Although men had a lower knowledge score, they were less likely to go to a crowded place compared with women (OR: 0.79, p < 0.05). However, women (OR: 1.25, p < 0.05) were more likely than men to wear a mask when leaving home. Furthermore, men (OR: 3.32, p < 0.05) were more likely than women to have a positive attitude toward COVID-19. Indonesian residents had satisfactory knowledge, demonstrated a positive attitude, and followed appropriate practices toward the pandemic. More educated individuals had a more positive attitude. Men and women differed with respect to their knowledge-based practices. Men were less likely to go to crowded places, and women were more likely to wear a mask when leaving home. Furthermore, men were more likely to wear a mask when leaving home than women when men had the attitude that Indonesia can win against COVID-19.


2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 847-851
Author(s):  
Nithyanandham Masilamani ◽  
Dhanraj Ganapathy

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) induced by new ß coronavirus MERS-(CoV) had first been described in Saudi Arabia in September 2012. MERS-CoV communication inside the population is often identified with clustered households and cramped communal spaces. The purpose of the study is to assess the knowledge and awareness of MERS-CoV among dental students in India. This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey of 100 dental college students in Chennai. The self-designed questionnaires contained ten questions focused on the knowledge and awareness of MERS-CoV amongst dental college students. Questionnaires were circulated through an online website survey planet. After the responses were received from 100 participants, data were collected and analyzed, .87% are aware of MERS-CoV through media 13% from professional channels. 84%are aware of the clinical manifestation of MERS-CoV. 81%Are aware of the mode of transmission of MERS-CoV. 76%are aware of the preventive measures against MERS -CoV.68%. Are aware of the incubation period of MERS-CoV. 74%aware of PCR as a diagnostic test for MERS-CoV. This study concluded that dental students had strong awareness and knowledge of MERS. Also, there are a few differences in information and behaviours that require change. Large-scale health educational programs on MERS also should be facilitated by professional organizations to expand their reach and to strengthen knowledge to have a positive impact on their behaviour.


Author(s):  
Hashim A. Mahdi ◽  
Hamza M. Assaggaf ◽  
Mohammad Alfelali ◽  
Omar B. Ahmed ◽  
Radi Alsafi ◽  
...  

This study aimed to assess hand hygiene knowledge, perception, and practices of visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque in Al Madinah City, Saudi Arabia. Using a self-administered electronic questionnaire, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among domestic residents, who visited the mosque between 31 July and 3 August 2020. Participants’ demographic data, hand hygiene knowledge, perception, and practices were collected. Four hundred participants aged 18–65 (median 36) years completed the survey, of which 215 (53.8%) were female. The visitors’ mean knowledge score about hand hygiene was 6.4 (± standard deviation (SD) 1.35) of total 12. Most participants (392, 98%) were aware of the role of hand hygiene in preventing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19); nevertheless, 384 (96%) said hand hygiene lowers body immunity and 316 (79%) thought <60% alcohol is sufficient for hand disinfection. Males had a higher knowledge score than females (6.46 (±1.41) vs. 6.14 (±1.27), p = 0.02) and, visitors who had no formal education scored higher than those with post-graduate education (6.88 (±1.45) vs 5.73 (±1.12), p = 0.01). Washing hands with soap and water was the predominant method practiced after a meal (365, 91.7%), after toilet visit (354, 88.5%), after touching a surface (262, 65.7%), after waste disposal (332, 83.2%), and when hands were visibly dirty (357, 89.5%). Al Madinah visitors had moderate knowledge about hand hygiene, but demonstrated some knowledge gaps and negligence in practice that are crucial to curb the spread of COVID-19.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Werku Etafa ◽  
Gosa Gadisa ◽  
Shibiru Jabessa ◽  
Tagay Takele

Abstract Background Globally, Coronavirus disease-19 has created unprecedented challenges to public health. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at risk of COVID-19 because of their profession. There are limited studies conducted in Ethiopia among HCWs regarding their compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures. Therefore, this study intended to assess HCWs’ compliance with measures to prevent COVID-19, and its potential determinants in public hospitals in Western Ethiopia. Methods A self-administered, multicenter hospital-based cross-sectional survey was proposed to 422 randomly selected HCWs working in seven public hospitals in Western Ethiopia identified as COVID-19 referral centers. Data were entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Binary logistic regression was used to identify potential determinants of outcome variables at p-value < 0.05. Results Out of 422 completed questionnaires, the overall HCWs’ compliance with COVID-19 prevention is 22% (n = 404). In multivariate regression analysis, factors such as spending most of caring time at bedside (AOR = 1.94, 95%CI, 1.06–3.55), receiving training on infection prevention/COVID-19 (AOR = 1.86, 95%CI, 1.04–3.33), reading materials on COVID-19 (AOR = 2.04, 95%CI, 1.14–3.63) and having support from hospital management (AOR = 2.09, 95%CI, 1.20–3.64) were found to be significantly associated with COVID-19 preventive measures. Furthermore, inadequate supplies of appropriate personal protective equipment (83.2%), insufficient supportive medications (78.5%), and lack of provision of adequate ventilation (77.7%) were the barriers to COVID-19 prevention most frequently mentioned by participants. Conclusion Our findings highlight HCWs’ poor compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures. Providing information and refreshing training to improve the level of healthcare workers’ adherence with COVID-19 prevention is as imperative as increasing staff commitment to supply resources necessary to protect HCWs and to reduce healthcare-associated infections transmission of SARS-COV-2.


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