Level of Awareness among Staff and Students of Academic Institutions towards COVID-19 in India

Abstract

Aim: The conducted survey aims to assess the level of COVID-19 awareness among staff and students of medical and non-medical academic institutions in India. Methods: The survey was conducted online by consenting students and staff from 02 April-2020 to 16 July 2020, participants completed and submitted COVID-19 questionnaire. A total of 300 participants responded by taking the self-administered questionnaire. Results: Of 300 participants, almost 83.45% had good knowledge that the disease is contagious; 99% observe acceptable practices regarding COVID-19 and (83%) majority seek knowledge from social media. Learning about symptoms of COVID-19 and its spread was marginally higher (p<0.05) among medical participants as compared to non-medical participants. Awareness about the preventive measures was insignificant (p<0.063) between medical and non-medical respondents. The responses collected for treatment options were also negligible though 83% believe that there is a treatment vaccine and medicine available. Mention single percentage from all participants or mention separate for medical and non medical institutions. Conclusion:  The study concluded that academic institutions had good knowledge and awareness towards COVID-19 symptoms and its prevention though there are gaps in specific aspects of knowledge, prevention practices and treatments that should be addressed in future awareness and educational campaigns. The study recommends the ministry of health and family welfare to promote all precautionary and preventive measures of COVID-19 consisting of a well-organized approach to include students, institutions and society: including under privileged, geriatric and people with limited information, in order to effectively implement these precautionary and awareness measures.