Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Towards COVID-19 Pandemic Among Health Workers in Bosaso, Somalia

Abstract

Background: WHO confirmed COVID-19 as a global pandemic on 11 March 2020. In Africa, the first case of COVID-19 was noted on 14 February 2020 in Egypt and Somalia confirmed its first case of the novel coronavirus in Mogadishu on 16 March 2020. In 12 June 2023, there are 26,439 confirmed cases and deaths has been recorded 1,361 in countrywide. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are critical to the continued effort in winning the battle over the disease. This study aims to determine healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards COVID-19 in Bosaso, Somalia. Methods: Quantitative data were collected through self-administered questionnaires to obtain information about knowledge, attitude and practices towards COVID-19 pandemic among health workers in Bosaso, Somalia. We used convenience sampling techniques in this research. Then, we distributed questionnaires via Google Forms Online to select eligible participants, focused on those who were available and willing to participate in this study. The researchers continuously monitor the completion and submission of questionnaires from accomplished respondents. This study was analyzed using a descriptive statistics approach, and SPSS software version 25 was utilized. Results: A total of 142 health workers completed the questionnaires. More than 59% were female, while 41% were male. Most health workers 83% had good knowledge about COVID-19 transmission, while 17% had poor knowledge. Moreover, knowledge regarding signs, symptoms, and at-risk groups was generally satisfactory. However, a gap exists in the use of early antibiotics to take preventive measures against COVID-19 patients. Overall, 59.7% of health workers had a positive attitude towards the disease, although gaps have been identified as 21.1% health workers believe that being Muslim has less at risk for the COVID-19 occurrence. Majority of health workers were practicing frequent handwashing, using a complete set of PPE and wearing a mask when going to public places. Conclusion: Health workers in Bosaso demonstrated good knowledge, positive attitude and satisfactory infection prevention and control practices. The study recommends that the government prioritize behaviors in the dissemination of evidence-based information to healthcare professionals to increase their knowledge of preventive measures and their precautionary practices during health service delivery. In addition, policymakers and other stakeholders should prioritize awareness campaigns on COVID-19 pandemic prevention and control in advance. Further research at the study site is also advised.