Awareness of University Students about Corona Virus-19 Pandemic and its Precaution Measures

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Clinical Instructor, Family and Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University, Egypt

2 Professor of Family and Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University, Egypt

3 Assistant Professor of Family and Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University, Egypt

Abstract

Abstract: Background: The outbreak of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a worldwide public health issue. Purpose: This study was conducted to assess knowledge of university students' about corona virus-19 pandemic and its precaution measures. Design: A descriptive research design was used to achieve the purpose of study. Setting: This study was conducted at Faculty of Commerce and Faculty of Law in Shebin Elkom city, Menoufia University. Sample: A convenience sample of 280 university students, aged between 18- 22, from non-medical faculties were gathered via an online Google Form. Instruments: Self-administered structured questionnaire included socio-demographic characteristics, and knowledge of undergraduate students’ about COVID-19 pandemic. Results: More than three fourths of university students (82.2%) had poor knowledge about COVID 19, 16.4% had fair knowledge and 1.4% good knowledge. Moreover, majority of studied students were not knowledgeable about each item of protective measures against COVID-19 such as washing hands with soap and water (61.8%), covering the mouth and nose with elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing (66.1%), wearing a mask in crowded places (67.1%), and maintaining a distance of at least one meter between you and any person (66.3%). Conclusion:  majority of students in the study had lack of knowledge about COVID -19 pandemic and its preventive measures.  Recommendations: Enhancement students’ awareness about COVID-19 and its protective measures are required.

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