Academy Journal of Science and Engineering (Dec 2020)
PERSPECTIVE OF COVID-19 EXISTENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES AMONG NIGERIAN PEOPLE
Abstract
The Corona Virus (COVID-19) has resulted in a massive global spread with growing health crisis even in the sub-Sahara Africa. A poor understanding of COVID-19 among Nigerians may result in delayed treatment and result in the rapid spread of the infection. This study assesses perception of Nigerians relating to existence, knowledge and preventive measures about COVID-19. Web-based and paper-based studies were conducted for a total of 870participantsacross the country during the lockdown period through questionnaire. Frequency distribution and percentages were used to compute the responses obtained. Binomial and chi-square tests were used to investigate the level of association in the response of the variables, both with significance set to p<0.05. Majority of the respondents believed the existence of the virus (90.4%). It is seen that COVID-19 is a threat to public health as 60% of the population agreed to this, less than 20% were not aware of symptoms with 80% accepted there were public awareness about the symptoms. 50% across all groups were unwilling to go for COVID-19 test. Furthermore, majority (90%) of the respondents are informed about the virus. More than 40% of the respondents believe the virus was a plot to destabilize the world. Factors such as age and level of education were associated with a poor perception of COVID-19. People’s perception is also informed mostly by their religious belief. Chi-square and Binomial test (p<0.05) showed positive perceptions of COVID-19. This study recommends that there be adequate sensitization on the importance of getting tested for COVID-19.
