JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has altered livelihood of people around the world in terms of increased morbidity, mortality and loss of QALY (Quality adjusted life years). Physical distancing, Personal Protective Equipment use, disinfection and hand washing practice are the mainstay in preventing the disease. There is increase in cases despite wide knowledge dissemination. Aim: To study the knowledge, attitude and practice of physical distancing among general population and to determine knowledge practice gap regarding physical distancing among them. Methods: Cross sectional study design with snowball sampling technique was employed. Sample size was 647. Online based questionnaire was distributed through various social media applications and through Email. Results: 418(64.60%) belonged to age group 18-24 years and 357(55.18 %) were females. Correct knowledge of 93.2%, right attitude of 89.99% and average correct practice of 56.09% was obtained. Knowledge practice gap of 22.2% was found. Significant higher correct knowledge and practice was found among Age < 25 years, who studied up to graduate, unmarried and females as compared to their counter parts. (<0.05) Conclusion: The study has helped to identify the knowledge practice gaps (22.2%) and behavioural patterns which will further help to implement effective interventions. The study has provided a deep identification and understanding of variables that may possibly influence the perspectives and practices towards physical distancing in COVID-19.

Key words: Physical distance, COVID-19, pandemic, knowledge, attitude, practice