Knowledge, Attitudes And Practice Amongst Parents Regarding Covid-19 In Children Visiting Tertiary Care Hospital

Knowledge, Attitudes And Practice Amongst Parents Regarding Covid-19 In Children

Abstract

Background: Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) are the major adherence factors for the successful implementation of prevention and control measures for COVID-19. Across the world, due to the spread of Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19), children are affected by physical distancing, quarantines and school closures. At the same time, various reports suggest that asymptomatic children may play a role in its transmission. Aim: To assess parents’ KAP regarding general as well as specific preventive and control measures for children during COVID-19 pandemic. Material And Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted in 200 parents visiting tertiary care institute for a duration of 3 months. The study data was collected using questionnaire through interview. The questionnaire included data regarding socio-demographic details, knowledge regarding COVID-19, attitude and practice-based questions. Parents/guardians were interviewed in a separate room with all precautions recommended by WHO/CDC in the Covid-19 pandemic. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 15 software. Result: Majority, 194 (97%), knew about coronavirus, 88% were aware of all ways of coronavirus transmission. 47.5 % parents said that hand washing with soap and water is better than sanitizer. 67.5% knew that covid-19 can affect children. 90% told that their children cannot wear mask whole day. Around 80% were not in favour of opening of schools. 76% told that children below 2 years should not wear mask. 65% parents were not aware that COVID-19 spread through exchanging and playing with each other’s toys. Around 90% did not sanitize the toys before passing from one child to other. Around 31% parents did not go for routine immunization of their children because they went to their native place during lockdown of children should also be given equal importance. Conclusion: Present study showed that the parents had overall good knowledge, positive attitude, and sensible practices regarding routes of transmission, distancing, quarantine during COVID-19 pandemic as compared to children related COVID-19 measures. It may be due to consistent efforts by the government for overall preventive and control measures. Information specific about the safety of children should also be given equal importance. [Rathod M Natl J Integr Res Med, 2023; 14(1): 28-31, Published on Dated: 20/01/2023]