Knowledge and perception on covid-19 pandemic among the undergraduate students of ayurveda college: A cross-sectional online survey

Abstract

Introduction: Students of medical college can be potential COVID warriors who could play a significant role in the course of the coronavirus disease outcome. Their activities and role depend upon their knowledge and perception of the disease. Objective: To assess the knowledge and perception about the COVID19 pandemic among a convenience sample of the undergraduate students of Ayurveda College in the Vidarbha area of Maharashtra state, India. Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional survey conducted upon the undergraduate medical students using online google forms. The population strata were based upon a predetermined number of open slots into which students from each year could enrol. A minimum of 10% open slot was reserved for each professional year including interns. Results: Out of 560 undergraduate students of the two colleges, 336 participants completed the online survey questionnaire. More than 90% of the respondents had good knowledge of the mode of disease transmission. 94% of medical students felt, lockdown implementation along with an increase in testing for suspected cases by the government of India to be a necessary step in avoiding the spread of the disease. 84.4% of them believed that the Indian system of Medicines like Ayurveda, Yoga, and Siddha can contribute to reducing the risk of reducing the Corona Pandemic. 79.3% of them had recommended Ayurveda Medicine to their family members or others for immune boosting. Conclusion: This survery serves as a guide or a base to public health care authorities, clinicians, and researchers. This methodology of the quick online surveys upon the general public to assess their knowledge, perception, and opinion could be used by public health authorities and act accordingly. It can also be concluded that medical undergraduate students can be effective COVID warriors in educating the general public.