Awareness of coronavirus disease-19 preventive measures among general population in Chengalpet District, Tamil Nadu

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Background and Aim: Measures to prevent and control coronavirus disease (COVID-19) include regular handwashing, physical distancing, and covering the mouth and nose, thereby reducing the spread of droplets. It is advised to follow preventive measures such as the use of facemask, social distancing, hand sanitizer during this pandemic for reducing the risk of infection transmission. The current survey was conducted to understand the public awareness about the preventive measures and its importance in preventing the spread of COVID-19 at the community level in Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess the awareness among the general population concerning the preventive measures of COVID-19 in the public area in Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu. The data collection was done in the month of December 2020, the sample size for the present study was estimated to be N = 268. Results: Altogether 308 individuals, male (129 [49.1%]), female (179 [59.1%]). Maximum 299 (97.1%) were aware of the COVID-19 pandemic. Almost 274 (89%) feel that wearing mask protect them from COVID-19 and knew that wearing mask would protect themselves as well as others at the same time. N = 144 (46.8%) unaware that they should not share their facemask with their family members. N = 266 (86%) use the hand wash/sanitizer before and after removing their mask. N = 223 (72.4%) practice social distancing in day-to-day life. N = 186 (60.4%) population believe that preventive measures at personal level will reduce the spread. Conclusion: The study population was well aware of the preventive measures to contain the transmission and spread of COVID-19; however, there is a lacunae in the application of their awareness on practice, which has to be overcome by continuous health education and motivational measures.