Perceptions and Practices of the Adult Population in Response to SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic in India

Abstract

Study Objective: To find the perceptions and behaviours of the general public in response to the novel coronavirus pandemic in India. Design: An online survey was conducted during lockdown period of coronavirus pandemic. Participants: 304 respondents participated in the survey during the lockdown period of 21 days.Main Outcome Measures: Perceptions and behaviours of adult population to coronavirus infections and its prevention. Result: The mean age of the respondents was 38.38±12.34 years. Most of the respondents believed that coronavirus was a contagious infection could be transmitted via direct body contact and droplets and majority 285 (93.8%) of the respondents were aware that coronavirus is a contagious infection. Nonetheless, perceived chance of infection was found by 284 (93.4%) respondents due to public transport, mass gatherings or crowds and through contaminated food or takeaways in only 94 (30.9%). Perceived efficacy of preventive measures was social distancing (77.3%), hand washing (75.3%) and wearing a mask (48%). It is interesting to note that some people were taking multivitamin, Unani immune modulator, homoeopathic and Hydroxychloroquine medicines as prophylaxis. Conclusion: Coronavirus related perceptions and behaviours are crucial for designing preventive measures. Knowledge about the pandemic was high but misconceptions were also existed in the study group which need further improvement of appropriate IEC activities among Indian population. How to cite this article:Nazli T, Heena, Raheem A, Kishore J. Perceptions and Practices of the Adult Population in Response to SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic in India. Epidem Int 2020; 5(2): 10-16. DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2455.7048.202011