COVID-19 Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preventive Behavior in Malaysians

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Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Knowledge, Awareness, Attitude and Preventive Behaviour on the Transmission of the Pandemic Novel Coronavirus Among Malaysians
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Author:

Norsa’adah Bachok, Anis Kausar Ghazali, Rohayu Hami


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The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Knowledge, Awareness, Attitude and Preventive Behaviour on the Transmission of the Pandemic Novel Coronavirus Among Malaysians

Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2021.28.2.10

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has significantly impacted global health systems, leading to widespread health education efforts aimed at mitigating transmission. A study was conducted among Malaysians aged 20 and over to examine their level of knowledge, attitude, awareness, and preventive behaviors regarding the transmission of COVID-19. This research employed an online survey distributed via WhatsApp during the Movement Control Order, aiming to gather data from a diverse sample of participants across various Malaysian states.

Understanding Knowledge and Awareness

One of the most striking findings from the study is that while the majority of participants possessed a high level of knowledge and awareness about COVID-19, certain misconceptions remained. For instance, 97.2% of respondents correctly identified the nostrils as a portal of entry for the virus, but only 58.7% acknowledged the potential for transmission through the consumption of wild animals. Furthermore, attitudes reflected a concerning disconnect, where many respondents did not view themselves as vulnerable to infection. The study underscored the necessity of addressing these gaps in understanding to improve public compliance with health directives and enhance the overall effectiveness of COVID-19 prevention strategies.

Conclusion

The study revealed a generally high level of knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices regarding COVID-19 among Malaysians, yet notable areas for improvement were identified, particularly among specific demographic groups such as young individuals and particular ethnic communities. As respondents demonstrated mixed awareness about transmission routes and symptoms, targeted health education initiatives are essential. Enhancing public understanding and addressing misconceptions will play a vital role in ensuring compliance with health recommendations and ultimately help in controlling the spread of the virus in Malaysia. Health promotion strategies should be integral to pandemic response efforts, focusing on the need for continued education and awareness in the community.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the study's aim regarding COVID-19 in Malaysia?

The study aimed to determine Malaysians' knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and preventive behaviors concerning the transmission of COVID-19 amid the ongoing pandemic.

What methods were used to conduct the study?

A cross-sectional study was conducted online during the Movement Control Order, targeting Malaysians aged 20 and older who use WhatsApp, using questionnaires for data collection.

What were the key findings regarding participants' knowledge?

Approximately 47.4% of participants scored above the median for knowledge regarding COVID-19, indicating that while a significant number were informed, there were still gaps in understanding specific aspects.

Which groups showed poorer attitudes or behaviors in the study?

The study found that young individuals, males, and Malays and Chinese had poorer attitudes and preventive behaviors compared to other ethnicities and demographics, indicating areas for targeted health education.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “COVID-19 Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preventive Behavior in Malaysians”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Table:
In the context of research, 'Table' refers to a structured arrangement of data designed to present information clearly and concisely. Tables are crucial for data analysis as they enable researchers to summarize and compare results efficiently, often highlighting significant trends or differences among various groups or variables in the study.

2) Knowledge:
Knowledge describes the awareness and understanding of various subjects, particularly essential in the context of health and disease prevention. This term emphasizes the importance of being informed about COVID-19, including its symptoms, transmission methods, and preventive measures, which aids individuals in making informed decisions regarding their health.

3) Transmission:
'Transmission' refers to the way infectious diseases spread from one individual to another. In the context of COVID-19, understanding the modes of transmission—such as respiratory droplets—is vital for public health strategies aimed at controlling outbreaks and implementing effective prevention measures to reduce infection rates in communities.

4) Pur:
The term 'Poor' typically describes a deficiency in quality, effectiveness, or capability. In this context, it refers to individuals who demonstrate inadequate knowledge, attitudes, or practices concerning COVID-19, which can hinder efforts in controlling the pandemic and indicate the need for targeted health education and improvement.

5) Study (Studying):
'Study' signifies a systematic investigation aimed at discovering new information or validating existing knowledge. In the context of the COVID-19 research presented, it illustrates efforts to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices among Malaysians during the pandemic, providing insights for public health planning and interventions.

6) Education:
'Education' is a crucial process of imparting knowledge, skills, and awareness, particularly regarding health-related topics. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, education plays a key role in raising public awareness about the disease, its prevention, and the importance of compliant health behaviors to minimize risk.

7) Viru:
The term 'Viru' appears to be a typographical error for 'virus', which refers to microscopic infectious agents that can cause disease in humans, animals, and plants. Studying viruses like SARS-CoV-2 helps to understand their pathology, modes of transmission, and the necessary containment strategies to curb infections.

8) Rules:
'Rules' refer to established guidelines or regulations aimed at governing behavior. In the health context, adherence to rules concerning COVID-19—such as social distancing, mask-wearing, and hygiene practices—plays a crucial role in preventing virus spread, highlighting the importance of public compliance for community health.

9) Male:
The term 'Male' distinguishes individuals based on sex, typically associated with physiological and anatomical attributes. In health studies, the analysis often reveals differences in attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors toward preventive measures against diseases like COVID-19, which may lead to targeted interventions based on gender-related health determinants.

10) Disease:
'Disease' refers to a pathological condition of a living organism characterized by dysfunction or abnormal bodily processes. Understanding diseases such as COVID-19 is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies, enhancing public awareness, and fostering community health through collaborative efforts in education and intervention.

11) Animal:
'Animal' refers to living organisms that are not plants or fungi. In the context of zoonotic diseases, certain viruses can be transmitted from animals to humans, highlighting the relevance of understanding animal behavior and management practices in preventing outbreaks, such as the potential links between wildlife and COVID-19.

12) Hand:
'Hand' symbolizes the importance of personal hygiene in preventing disease transmission. Public health guidelines emphasize hand hygiene, including proper washing and sanitizing methods, to reduce the risk of propagating infections like COVID-19, reinforcing the need for public compliance with hygiene practices to safeguard community health.

13) Surface:
'Surface' pertains to the external part of an object. The relevance of surfaces in the context of COVID-19 lies in understanding how viruses can survive for varying durations on different materials, necessitating cleaning and disinfection protocols to minimize potential transmission through contact with contaminated surfaces.

14) Indian:
'Indian' represents an ethnic group and is relevant within the context of healthcare research to explore disparities in health knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and outcomes among different ethnic communities. Acknowledging cultural diversity ensures public health interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of various demographic groups.

15) Epidemic:
'Epidemic' refers to a sudden increase in the number of disease cases above what is normally expected in a specific area. During COVID-19, recognizing and responding to epidemics is critical for implementing timely public health measures aimed at controlling the outbreak and protecting community health.

16) Relative:
'Relative' indicates a member of a family or other group sharing common characteristics. In health studies, understanding family dynamics and relationships is important for assessing the impact of diseases like COVID-19, particularly concerning transmission within households and the role of shared knowledge in disease prevention.

17) Family:
'Family' signifies a group of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption. Understanding family dynamics in public health research is crucial as families are often the primary units for knowledge dissemination regarding health practices and preventive measures necessary for combating diseases like COVID-19.

18) Fever:
'Fever' is a common symptom indicative of an underlying infection or illness. In the context of COVID-19, recognizing fever as a potential sign of infection reinforces public awareness and actions, such as self-isolation and seeking medical attention, which are essential in controlling the spread of the virus.

19) Post:
'Post' typically refers to a position or situation that comes after an event. In the health context, post refers to managing public health responses and individual behavior following an outbreak, including recovery strategies that emphasize long-term health education and promotion necessary for preventing future epidemics.

20) Cancer:
'Cancer' represents a group of diseases characterized by unregulated cell growth. In health contexts, understanding the knowledge and attitude toward cancer education can inform strategies aimed at preventive behavior, effectively building awareness for various diseases, including the implications of non-communicable diseases within a pandemic context like COVID-19.

21) Death:
'Death' refers to the cessation of life and is a critical outcome in public health studies. Understanding the mortality rates associated with COVID-19 is vital for guiding public health responses, resource allocation, and informing the public regarding the seriousness of the epidemic to enhance compliance with health measures.

22) Developing:
'Developing' typically refers to the process of growth or progression. In health contexts, it can denote the evolution of diseases, including understanding the progression of COVID-19 symptoms or the development of vaccines and treatment protocols aimed at mitigating the impact of such infectious diseases in communities.

23) Gathering:
'Gathering' refers to a coming together of individuals, often for social, cultural, or religious purposes. In the context of COVID-19, gatherings pose a significant risk for virus transmission, leading to public health directives that discourage large assemblies to manage and prevent the spread of the disease.

24) Putra:
'Putra' often refers to 'Putra Malaysia,' indicating affiliation with a specific demographic or region. In public health research, understanding the unique characteristics of populations affiliated with terms like 'Putra' provides insights on cultural differences, attitudes toward health interventions, and emphasizes the need for tailored public health messages.

25) Malik:
'Malik' generally refers to an individual's name; however, in a health context, it may relate to researchers or influencers that contribute to discussions on health-related topics. Understanding perspectives from such individuals can inform community health strategies and enhance engagement in public health initiatives.

26) Tama:
'Dhama,' like 'Malik,' may signify a name associated with a health communicator or researcher, contributing to the discourse on health awareness. Their participation can enhance the reach and effectiveness of health campaigns in addressing public concerns, particularly during health crises such as a pandemic.

27) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
'Transformed' signifies a change in state or condition. In the context of research methods or data presentation, transformation can refer to modifying data formats or variables to enhance analysis and understanding. Emphasizing transformed data supports clearer communication of research findings within public health.

28) Discussion:
'Discussion' refers to the examination and exchange of ideas regarding research findings. In the context of health research, the discussion allows for interpreting results, addressing implications for public health, and framing recommendations, enhancing understanding of health problems like COVID-19 for better community responses and strategies.

29) Science (Scientific):
'Scientific' relates to systematic studies and methodologies used to investigate phenomena. In public health research, scientific approaches facilitate data collection and analysis, allowing researchers to draw reliable conclusions about health behaviors and epidemic management during crises, informing effective health policies and interventions.

30) Attending:
'Attending' signifies the act of being present at an event or gathering. In the context of public health, attending large gatherings can increase exposure to infectious diseases like COVID-19, highlighting the necessity for guidance on participation in social events to reduce risks related to disease transmission.

31) Pregnant:
'Pregnant' refers to the condition of carrying developing offspring within the womb. In the context of COVID-19, understanding how the virus may affect pregnant individuals is essential for guiding health policies and recommendations, ensuring protective measures are in place for maternal and fetal health.

32) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene refers to practices that promote health and prevent disease, particularly through cleanliness. In the context of COVID-19, maintaining hygiene—such as regular handwashing and sanitization of surfaces—is critical for minimizing the risk of infection and protecting public health throughout communities affected by the virus.

33) Raising:
'Raising' pertains to elevating or enhancing awareness around a topic. In public health, raising awareness concerning COVID-19 involves informing and educating communities about prevention measures, thereby fostering compliance and promoting community health through informed decision-making and collective action in combating the pandemic.

34) Meeting:
'Meeting' involves an assembly of individuals for discussion or decision-making. In public health contexts, it underscores the importance of coordinating efforts among healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public to ensure effective communication and implementation of health measures related to pandemic management and disease prevention.

35) Reason:
'Reason' pertains to the justification behind certain actions or beliefs. In health discussions, exploring the reasons for people's attitudes and behaviors towards COVID-19 prevention can illuminate barriers to compliance and identify opportunities for improving public health messaging and education strategies for better outcomes.

36) Roman (Roma):
'Roman' typically relates to ancient Rome; however, in public health discussions, it may refer to relevant historical or cultural contexts influencing health behaviors and practices. Understanding such cultural implications can inform tailored public health approaches and enhance community engagement in health initiatives.

37) Glass:
'Glass' signifies a material that can harbor pathogens, particularly in relation to hygiene and cleanliness practices. In the context of COVID-19, understanding the survival of viruses on glass surfaces emphasizes the need for proper cleaning protocols to minimize transmission risks associated with shared objects.

38) Water:
'Water' signifies a vital resource essential for human health. In public health contexts, access to clean water is crucial for promoting hygiene practices, such as handwashing, which is highly effective in preventing the spread of diseases like COVID-19 and ensuring overall community wellness.

39) Fight:
'Fight' denotes the effort to overcome a challenge, often used metaphorically in public health. In the context of COVID-19, fighting the pandemic involves collective action to implement preventative measures, vaccination campaigns, and health promotions, aiming to control and reduce transmission effectively in affected communities.

40) Cina:
'China' is significant in discussions of COVID-19 as it is the location where the virus was first identified. Understanding the origins of COVID-19 in China is crucial for public health research, tracing the virus's spread, and informing responses to prevent future outbreaks both nationally and globally.

41) Seri (Sheri):
'Seri' is often associated with the Seri Petaling event related to COVID-19 transmission in Malaysia. It represents a specific context within the epidemic, emphasizing how large gatherings can catalyze virus spread, highlighting the need for public awareness and restrictions on such events in health regulations.

42) Sign:
'Sign' refers to a symptom or indication of a condition. In the context of COVID-19, recognizing signs of infection—such as fever, cough, or loss of taste—is essential for self-awareness, prompting individuals to seek testing and minimizing potential spread, thereby enhancing community health responses.

Other Health Sciences Concepts:

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