Knowledge and Attitudes of Jordanians toward COVID-19 pandemic: A CrossSectional Survey

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perception and attitudes of Jordanians regarding COVID-19 and the implementation of control measures by the government. Methods: An online survey of 25 questions assessing knowledge of COVID-19 prevention methods and attitudes toward government regulations to decrease the spread of the virus skills was conducted through social media networks between March 21 and March 22, 2020, the same day a national curfew was implemented. Results: A total of 3087 participants completed the survey. About 61.9% were females, 78.1% aged 18 to 40 years, and 40.4% were employed. The vast majority (99%) of the population reported to have at least some information about the virus. Almost half (45.2%) reported television as the main source of information about COVID-19. About 92.3% understood the importance of hand washing. About 90.5% considered the governmental measures excellent or very good, 8.7% rated measures good, 0.8% rated measures bad or very bad. Many supported government actions with 97.7% supporting the curfew decision, and 68.1% favoring school and university closure and the use of remote-education until the outbreak is resolved. The majority understood the importance of handwashing (92.3%) with 34.8% reporting washing their hands more than three times daily. Conclusions: Overall, participants demonstrated good knowledge about COVID-19 and had favorable attitudes toward government actions during the first 24 hours of the curfew. This suggests Jordan’s efforts towards COVID-19 were well received by the general public.