COVID-19: Socio-demographic determinants of knowledge

Ogbondah BO; Owhonda G; Jaja ID; Luke A; Green P; Mberekpe PO

doi:10.61386/imj.v15i3.268

Authors

Ogbondah BO Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Orowoukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Owhonda G Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Orowoukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Jaja ID Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Orowoukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Luke A Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Orowoukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Green P Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Orowoukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Mberekpe PO Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Orowoukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61386/imj.v15i3.268

Abstract

Background: Knowledge on etiology, risk factors, mode of transmission, signs and symptoms of COVID-19 is an essential element in pandemic control. Assessing the level of knowledge and determining sources from which information were derived is a fundamental element of situation analysis imperative in COVID-19 control.

Materials and method: The study is a cross sectional study. All eligible visitors who presented at the general out-patient department for Medicare were enlisted into the study until required sample size was achieved. Pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire was used to elicit information from respondents. Statistical analysis was done with multinomial logistic regression analysis using SPSS version 23.1 with statistical significance set at 0.05. Ethical approval and permission for the study from relevant authorities were granted.

Results: Over all composite score for good knowledge was 1037(35.4%) with predominant statistically significant difference in knowledge. There was better knowledge score for females, public servants, married persons, respondents aged 31-40 years and those who had tertiary education.

Conclusion: Knowledge of COVID 19 was poor. Higher educational qualification enhances better knowledge. Females, public servants, married persons, respondents who attended tertiary institution and those aged 31-40 years had better knowledge score.