Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards COVID-19 among Non-healthcare Individuals in the Municipality of Pateros, Metro Manila

Abstract

The Philippines is one of the many developing countries struggling with the availability and accessibility of healthcare resources in this time of COVID-19 pandemic. It is of paramount importance to recognize the knowledge gaps, beliefs, and behavioral patterns that may identify the needs, problems, and barriers that will aid in the planning, optimization, and implementation of interventions for COVID-19 response. The research’s aim was to address this by assessing the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of 398 non-healthcare affiliated individuals from ages 18-59. The sample population for this study were the residents of the Municipality of Pateros. The research design followed a descriptive cross-sectional format. Participants were selected through convenience sampling via the dissemination of an online survey on the major social media platforms. The mean statistics of the KAPs were analyzed and it was found that the participants demonstrated inadequate knowledge, negative attitudes, and inappropriate practices. In addition to these findings, ANOVA testing showed significantly differing groups were observed with age and practices, employment and knowledge, and finally, hours spent online and knowledge and practices. Therefore, in response to the demonstrated KAP scores, optimized interventions centered on health education should be prioritized in order to respond to the threat of COVID-19.