Assessing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of College Students in Manila, Philippines Regarding COVID-19 Preventive Measures

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about changes in the education sector throughout the world, pushing all schools to transition to online and modular learning. The return to face-to-face classes is inevitable; thus, measures must be taken to ensure each individual’s safety. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of college students enrolled in any of three health science programs in a private HEI in Manila regarding COVID-19, and assess whether there were significant differences or associations across the demographic profile. Data were collected using a validated self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire, adapted from different COVID-19 KAP studies and guidelines from CDC and FDA, comprised of questions on demographics (5), knowledge (23), attitudes (4), practices (8), and sources of information (6). Out of the 350 students in the study, 259 (74%) were female and 91 (26%) were male. The majority of the college students enrolled in any of the three health science programs in a private HEI in Manila had sufficient knowledge (58.9%), positive attitudes (60.28%), and good practices (57.43%). Despite the sufficiency of knowledge, three misconceptions about COVID-19 were identified. Participants were also found to rely on news platforms as their top source of information on COVID-19. Demographically, females, students from program 2, and third-year students were found to be more knowledgeable about COVID-19 among the participants. The results generated by this KAP study may help in creating effective preventive measures to ensure the safety of the school community.