A Cross Sectional Study on Awareness and Knowledge of SARS CoV-2 and Vaccination among General Public
K. Shailaja *
Department of Pharmacy Practice, C. L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, the Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, India.
S. Benita
Department of Pharmacy Practice, C. L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, the Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, India.
G. Dinesh Kumar
Department of Pharmacy Practice, C. L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, the Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, India.
D. Harshidha
Department of Pharmacy Practice, C. L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, the Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, India.
M. V. Mousigan
Department of Pharmacy Practice, C. L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, the Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background Information: COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The WHO declared it a global pandemic on March 12th, 2020. Government initiatives play a major role in limiting the spread of infection by educating people.
Objectives: To assess the awareness and knowledge of COVID-19 and vaccination among general public.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study as an online survey over a period of 6 months with 601 respondents. The information regarding the demographics was subjected to descriptive analysis. The study was conducted using a pre-tested semi-structured online Google form and a consent form obtained.
Results: Among 601 participants, nearly 77% of respondents were practicing preventive measures. Nearly 68% of the respondent’s knowledge and awareness about the COVID-19 vaccination was in moderate level.
Conclusion: During this pandemic, there were increased worries and apprehensions among the public regarding acquiring the COVID-19 infection. The disease is not eradicated completely, so it is necessary to educate the public continuously. It is not mandatory to stop the awareness-creating program, and advertising about the disease once the severity of the disease is reduced.
Keywords: Awareness, COVID-19, knowledge, SARS COV-2, vaccination