Knowledge and awareness of community toward COVID-19 in Jordan: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: The behavior of the general public in Jordan will likely have an important effect on the how the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic spreads. Human behavior is influenced by people’s knowledge and awareness. The aim of the study is to determine the knowledge and awareness of COVID-19 among the general public in Jordan. Method: Cross-sectional online survey conducted between March 17 and March 23, 2020. A sample of 3,791 adults in Jordan who were representative of the general population by gender, age, occupation, marital status, employment status and educational level. Measurements: Response to 23 survey questions. Results: Participants generally had satisfactory knowledge of the main mode of disease transmission and the common symptoms of COVID-19, as half of the participants confirmed that transmission is via droplets from sneezing or coughing and from contaminated surfaces. In addition, most (77%) of the respondents stated that more than one category could be at high risk of complications from COVID-19, including the elderly, people with weak immune systems, those with heart problems, and diabetic patients. However, a substantial proportion of participants had misconceptions about how to prevent infection. For instance, about 80% of participants thought that wearing a mask was effective in protecting them from acquiring COVID-19. Conclusion: These findings can guide government information campaigns that will be covered by media. Rapid online surveys could be an important tool in tracking the public’s knowledge and misperceptions of COVID-19 over time.