Assessing Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) Towards COVID-19: A Cross-sectional Study in Kenya

Abstract

Covid-19 is a severe acute respiratory disease that has rapidly spread across the world from the first case that was reported in China in December 2019. The main symptoms of a person infected with corona virus are fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, dyspnea and myalgia. One of the main tool employed to control the pandemic is providing the community with correct information about the disease. High knowledge, right attitude towards Covid-19 and are adhering to suggested practices is the most effective approach to control community transmission. It is against this background that this study sought to assess Covid-19 knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) among Kenyans. An online cross- section survey was used to collect data between July 26-31, 2020. From the findings, 9.1% of the respondents indicated that their relatives, friends or themselves had contracted Covid-19. There is high knowledge of Covid-19 in Kenya, with 83.97% (82.4, 85.54) aware of its symptoms and preventative measures. With regard to containment of the disease, 55% are optimistic than measures instituted by Kenyan government will eventually control its spread. Daily MoH briefing (56%) and mainstream media (55%) are the main and trusted sources of information about Covid-19. Despite, most persons indicating they wore mask and washed hands while in crowded place, 60% indicated other people were not observing the measures. Gender, age group, education level and occupation influence the Covid-19 knowledge level.