A Cross - Sectional Study on Knowledge and Attitude Associated with Covid-19 among Undergraduates: An Institutional Survey in a Private Medical College

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus Disease 2019 is a rapidly expanding pandemic caused by a novel human coronavirus (SARS-COV-2). An infection (COVID-19) without any specific cure makes the people more vulnerable to get affected due to insufficient knowledge and unhealthy practices. A poor understanding of the disease leading to rapid spread of infections.Aims: To assess the Knowledge and Attitude among undergraduates towards COVID-19 pandemic.Material & Methods:Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Study area:Dr.V.R.K Women’s Medical College, R.R district.TELANGANA. Study Period:3 months (1st September 2020 - 30th November 2020). Study population: Second year and Third year MBBS students joined in Dr.V.R.K Women’s Medical College. Sample size: All the second year and third year MBBS students who were available on online at the time of study. Study tools: A predesigned & pretested questionnaire was used for collecting the data after validating the questionnaire. Questionnaire was developed in English language. Statistical Analysis: The collected data was entered in Microsoft excel 2007 and analysed using SPSS version 20 software, trial version. Data was described in terms of mean ± standard deviation, frequencies as appropriate. The results were presented in the form of charts, graphs, etc. The statistical significance level was fixed at P < 0.05. Results: Overall the knowledge percentage was 86.1% among the study population.74.2% of the study population had correct knowledge regarding incubation period and symptoms.