Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Trends Towards Covid-19 Pandemic: Comparison Between Individuals with Medical and Non-Medical Backgrounds

Abstract

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly infectious viral disease with high morbidity and mortality. Successful control of COVID-19 requires an approach of safety and cautious behavior of the general public as well as healthcare workers which can be attained by enhancing awareness based on scientific evidence.

Aims & Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of Covid-19 safety precautions in people with a medical and allied health background and compare them with non-medical people from the local population.

Place and duration of study: Study was conducted at Central Park Medical College from July 2020 to September 2020.

Material & Methods: A total of 976 people participated in the study and were segregated into two groups; Group 1 (People having medical background; n=388) and Group 2 (People having non-medical background; n=588) to compare KAP scores between Group 1 and  Group 2 by using validated scales on Google forms. Data were presented as percentages and frequencies. Independent sample t-test was used to analyze statistical differences.

Results: Higher knowledge scores were observed for group 1 as compared to group 2 (9.92 + 2.27 v/s 9.16 +2.53; p= 0.001). Better knowledge, good attitude and safe practice trends were observed in group 1 (medical background) as compared to group 2 (non-medical background).

Conclusion: Individuals with a medical background are more knowledgeable and exhibit a cautious attitude and better safety practices regarding COVID-19 as compared to the general population. There is a need to educate the general population about safety measures for COVID-19 including social distancing, usage of masks, self-isolation, avoidance of gatherings and others.