2023/11/06 by Wirtu, Dessalegn, Dufera, Mebrate, Kenea, Oljira +3
#Attitude #COVID-19 #Knowledge #Prevention #practices
paper · doi:10.20372/star.v9i2.03
Health measures like physical distancing, hand hygiene and wearing a face mask are the frontline intervention methods of COVID-19. However, the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of these measures among people dwelling in highly populated urban areas of western Ethiopia is not unknown. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of urban communities towards COVID-19 in selected urban communities in two Wollega Zones. A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from May to August 2020 in six purposefully selected towns. The total sample size was determined using a single population proportion formula. A multistage random sampling technique was employed. The data were analysed using SPSS version 20 for Windows. Descriptive data were presented using tables and figures. The crude OR was calculated, and variables found to be significant at a p-value less than 0.25 with a 95% CI were transported to the second model to estimate the adjusted odds ratio. A total sample size of 3,426 people participated in the study. Nearly all 3368 (98.3%) of the respondents had ever heard about the Corona virus. The majority, 2909 (84.9%), have moderate knowledge about the transmission and prevention of COVID-19. Fifty-nine percent (2020) have a positive attitude towards the prevention of COVID-19. Regarding the prevention of COVID-19, 1959 (57.2), we were practicing the recommended preventive health measures. The residential area, occupation, educational status, and knowledge level of the respondents were found to be significantly associated with prevention practices. The results underscore that although the knowledge level about COVID-19 is high, preventive health measure practices among the study population are weak. The health sector and other partners should pay attention to educating and promoting the implementation of the recommended preventive measures in the community.