Abstract
Background: Facemasks have become a mandatory to prevent the pandemic spread of COVID-19. It can be utilized as part of a broader strategy to reduce transmission and save lives. However, there are several basic conditions for using masks that the general population is unaware of. People should be highly aware of the proper handling, usage and disposal of the facemask to prevent the spread.
 Aim: The aim of the study is to analyze the general public's knowledge, attitude, and practice of correct face mask handling during a covid-19 epidemic, with the hope of providing the essential awareness to prevent future worsening crises.
 Methods: The survey was conducted among general population. A total of 130 participants participated in the knowledge, awareness and practice assessment survey and the questionnaire was distributed online using Google survey forms. The data were collected, tabulated in excel and statistically analyzed using SPSS IBM version 20.0. Descriptive analysis & Pearson’s chi square test statistical analysis were performed.
 Results: The results of the study showed that majority of the population preferred to wear face mask and 81.5 % believed that facemasks provides protection against corona virus; 3.1 % participants did not agree and 15.4 % participants were in dilemma.
 Conclusions: Our results showed that some practices among young people could be regarded more appropriate than in the older people which quantify the need of more awareness campaign regarding the standardization, protocols, guidelines and strict implementation on the handling, usage and disposal of mask to minimize the pandemic spread.
Highlights
The corona virus disease (COVID - 19), a highly infectious disease was first identified in Wuhan, China, spread rapidly across the world in just a month, triggering a global public health emergency [1]
People should be highly aware of the proper handling, usage and disposal of the facemask to prevent the spread
The results of the study showed that majority of the population preferred to wear face mask and 81.5 % believed that facemasks provides protection against corona virus; 3.1 % participants did not agree and 15.4 % participants were in dilemma
Summary
The corona virus disease (COVID - 19), a highly infectious disease was first identified in Wuhan, China, spread rapidly across the world in just a month, triggering a global public health emergency [1]. According to WHO, it has been stated that the facemask should be worn in such a way that it should cover the person’s mouth and nose, the outer as well as the inner surface of a face mask should not be touched in any circumstances and hand hygiene should be maintained before wearing and after removal of the face mask [4] It is very difficult for the general public to adapt face masks as mandatory in their day - to - day life. Aim: The aim of the study is to analyze the general public's knowledge, attitude, and practice of correct face mask handling during a covid-19 epidemic, with the hope of providing the essential awareness to prevent future worsening crises. Descriptive analysis & Pearson’s chi square test statistical analysis were performed
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
