Assessment of “Knowledge, attitudes and practice” of the population of the Republic of Tajikistan regarding COVID-19

Abstract

Introduction. Despite the high level of vaccination, some groups of the population still lack reliable information about vaccines and resources with which to familiarize themselves with it. Social and behavioral changes are a key element of an effective response to COVID-19, such as increasing the level of knowledge of the population through the dissemination of information and educational materials on vaccination of the population against coronavirus infection. The purpose of the study: to assess the level of knowledge about COVID-19, behavioral practices, as well as attitudes towards vaccination and other ongoing anti-epidemic measures among the population of the Republic of Tajikistan. Materials and methods. The study was conducted by the NGO “Subhi Tandurusti” from February to May 2024. To assess the level of respondents in the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices survey regarding issues related to COVID-19, a questionnaire survey was conducted using a specially designed questionnaire. The study involved 2,500 respondents from 15 different districts and cities of the republic. Results. About 93 % of respondents (n = 2322) correctly answered this question regarding modes of transmission of the virus, indicating a high level of awareness of modes of transmission of COVID-19. Relatively high rates of correct answers were recorded to the question “Is it possible to get sick with COVID-19 several times?” 69.5 % of respondents (n = 1737) answered this question correctly, indicating an understanding that it is possible to get sick with COVID-19 several times. Attitude of respondents regarding the safety and effectiveness of vaccination: 78.3 % of respondents (n = 1957) expressed confidence in its safety, 11.3 % (n = 282) did not know the answer, and 10.4 % (n = 261) did not consider the vaccine safe. 2,430 people (97.20 %) have already received the full course of vaccination against COVID-19, 42 people (1.68 %) have only received the first dose of the vaccine and are planning to receive the second. The most popular source of information about COVID-19 was television programs – 44.0 % of respondents (n = 1101), followed by information materials (25.2 %, n = 631) and the Internet, including websites and social networks (22.8 %, n = 571). At the same time, 75.6 % (n = 1889) of respondents rated information and educational materials about COVID-19 as very useful and reliable. To the question “Have you been tested?”: 639 people (25.6 %) “never” got tested, 588 (23.5 %) “often” and 461 (18.4 %) “always” got tested. Conclusion. The results of the study showed that the interviewees had sufficient knowledge about COVID-19, including the transmission of the virus through various routes and clinical symptoms of the disease, as well as the importance of vaccination. Public health initiatives help better protect public health during emergencies such as infectious disease pandemics.