Practice Of Preventive Measures Research Articles

Factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers: A systematic review.

Workers in the construction industry frequently work in construction sites with numerous areas that can potentially accumulate water, such as tanks, wet cement surfaces, or water puddles. These water collection sites become ideal breeding grounds for mosquito infestation, which leads to a higher prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases, especially malaria and dengue among construction workers. Despite that numerous factors have been identified in controlling vector-borne diseases, the specific factors that influence mosquito control at construction sites have yet to be explored. This systematic review aims to determine the factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers. Primarily, articles related to factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers were collected from two different online databases (ScienceDirect and EBSCOhost). Two independent reviewers were assigned to screen the titles and abstracts of the collected data, stored in Microsoft Excel, against the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Afterwards, the quality of the included articles was critically assessed using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Of the 171 articles identified, 4 were included in the final review. Based on the thorough evaluation, mosquito-related knowledge, practical mosquito prevention measures, and Larval Source Management (LSM) were identified as vital factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers. The significant association between mosquito-related knowledge and control practices indicates higher knowledge linked to effective practices, particularly among female workers and those who were recently infected with malaria. Concurrently, there were notable challenges regarding sustainable preventive measures and larval control methods in construction settings. Implementing effective mosquito control, including knowledge and practice on mosquito control together with vector control, is highly required to suppress the expanding mosquito population. It is recommended that employers provide continuous mosquito control education and training to their employees and reward them with incentives, while employees should comply with the guidelines set by their employers to ensure successful mosquito control and reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases in the construction industry.

Geo-special Community Analysis on The Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Preventive Measures Adopted in Response to Cases of Resurgent Malaria by The Populations of The Provinces of Maniema and Kwango in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Geo-special Community Analysis on The Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Preventive Measures Adopted in Response to Cases of Resurgent Malaria by The Populations of The Provinces of Maniema and Kwango in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Practices of diarrhoea disease prevention measures among caregivers in Nyalenda, Kisumu County

This study aims to assess the practice of diarrhoea disease prevention measures among caregivers to enhance the effectiveness of prevention strategies. Diarrhoea disease poses a significant health risk, particularly among children, and caregivers play a crucial role in preventing its occurrence. However, the actual practice of diarrhoea disease prevention measures among caregivers is not well understood. Understanding the current practices and identifying areas for improvement can inform targeted interventions and educational programs to enhance the effectiveness of prevention strategies. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with mixed methods analysis. A sample of 302 households with caregivers of children aged 6-24 months. In-depth interviews and structured questionnaires were employed for data collection entered into SPSS. Descriptive analysis, multivariate logistic regression, independent samples t-test, chi-square test, and qualitative thematic analysis were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed the level of adherence to preventive measures among caregivers and identified specific areas where improvements are needed. The study contributes to the understanding of caregivers’ practices in preventing diarrhoea diseases and highlights the necessity for targeted interventions to improve adherence to preventive measures. By identifying specific areas for improvement, healthcare providers and policymakers can design educational programs and interventions that address the gaps in practice, ultimately reducing the incidence of diarrhoea diseases among children. The study recommends incorporating visual charts as an intervention strategy to improve caregivers’ practice of diarrhoea disease prevention measures. Visual charts can effectively enhance adherence to preventive measures among caregivers, ultimately reducing the prevalence of diarrhoea in children.

Knowledge, attitude and practices of preventive measures in leptospirosis among farmers in a lower-middle income country: evidence from a divisional health area of Sri Lanka

Introduction: Sri Lanka continues to have a high case burden of leptospirosis despite rigorous preventive activities undertaken, with significant morbidity and mortality among econom ically active age groups. Hence, it is time to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices on preventive measures am ong high-risk groups to generate evidence needed to design new interventions. Objectives: To describe the knowledge, attitude and practices of pre ventive measures in leptospirosis among farmers Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted a mong 426 farmers in Pelmadulla Medical Officer of Health (MOH) Area. Taking one farmer community as a cluster, seve n clusters were chosen using cluster sampling method out of the 28 farmer communities registered. Data were coll ected using a pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire. The knowledge, attitude and practice scores were calc ulated based on a scoring system prepared with expert inputs. Results: The response rate of the study was 97%. The sample mainly consisted of 40-59 years (n=227; 53.2%), predominantly of males 91.1% (n=388) and majority (69.7%) had se condary education. It was evident that 81.9% (n=349) of the study sample had satisfactory knowledge with a mean of 7.88 ( SD=1.38) while 72.8% (n=310) of the study sample had a good attitude with a mean of 7.54 (SD=1.578). Only 16.4% (n= 70) of the study sample had good practice-scores on leptospirosis preventive measures with a mean of 12.03 (SD=2.8). Conclusions & Recommendations: Knowledge and attitudes on lept ospirosis prevention were satisfactory among farmers, though practices were poor. Behavioural modification-focused aware ness programs for changing the practice of preventive measures need to be planned to address the identified gaps in knowl edge and attitude.

IJCM_274A: “Knowledge, attitude, practice regarding preventive measures; stigma and risk perception of covid 19 among the residents in the rural field practice area of a teaching hospital in Mangaluru”

Background: The success of battle against COVID 19 depends on public adherence towards infection control measures, which is greatly affected by their knowledge, attitude, and practices towards the COVID 19 pandemic. Objectives: Among the residents in the rural field practice area of a teaching hospital in Mangaluru:- 1) To assess knowledge, attitude, practice regarding preventive measures of COVID 19. 2) To assess stigma and risk perception of COVID 19. Methodology: A community based cross sectional study, by house-to-house visit was conducted among 323 participants residing in the rural field practice area of A.J. Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Mangaluru. Multistage sampling was adopted. Details regarding socio-demographic characteristics; knowledge, attitude, practice regarding preventive measures of COVID 19; risk perception and stigmatizing behavior was collected. Analysis was done using SPSS trial version 28. Results: 61% of participants were male; 27% had primary education and 33.1% were unemployed. Mass media was the most common source of COVID 19 related information. The knowledge of preventive measures of COVID 19 was good in 97.5% of the participants. 98.1% had positive attitude towards the preventive measures of COVID 19. The practice of preventive measures of COVID 19 good in 63.5%. 87.6% had taken two dose of COVID 19 vaccine. Low risk perception was seen in 96% and 83.6% had low stigmatizing behavior towards COVID 19. Gender was significant predictor of attitude scores. Age, gender, educational status, occupation status, type of family was the significant predictor of practices scores. Conclusion: Majority of the participants had good knowledge, positive attitude and good practice of preventive measures of COVID 19. As a result of effective IEC effort by different authorities is reaching rural part of India, people are aware of the preventive measures, has positive attitude about it and are practicing them.

Controlling the water: citizens’ place–related adaptation to landslides in mid-Norway

In light of an increasing frequency of climate change–related hazards such as landslides, climate adaptation is increasingly on the agenda of Norwegian municipalities. Nevertheless, municipalities face constraints in addressing these challenges, with smaller, remote municipalities being particularly susceptible. They often cover expansive geographical areas with high landslide risk, yet have limited financial resources, expertise, and personnel for climate adaptation. Consequently, the active involvement of citizens in adaptation plays an important role in these remote places. This paper investigates how citizens of three small remote communities deal with landslides, emphasizing the role of people–place relations in shaping adaptive practices. Grounded in assemblage theory, our analysis reveals that most citizens maintained a pragmatic relation to landslides, while only a few expressed concern. Regardless of the degree of concern, all citizens constructed landslides as integral element within their socio-material place assemblages, as part of their lives in the respective places. Furthermore, citizens developed various adaptive practices, including nature observation, reporting to authorities, and implementing practical preventive measures to control water that could trigger landslides. These practices are manifestations of socio-material assemblages that have evolved through citizens’ relations to their specific places. Importantly, irrespective of the level of concern regarding landslides, these practices were carried out as part of everyday life. Through these practices, enabled by experience-based, embodied, and often tacit local knowledge, citizens acted as community guardians. Thus, comprehensive people–place relations emerge as a pivotal factor for a community’s adaptative capacity in the face of climate change-induced hazards.

Injury Prevention and Talent Retention: A Coach’s Role in Sustaining Athletic Potential in Young Athletes

This paper explores the multifaceted role of coaches in injury prevention and talent retention among young athletes. Acknowledging the interconnectedness of physical and psychological well-being, the study delves into the profound impact coaches wield on athlete behavior, performance, and the cultivation of a positive coaching environment. A detailed examination of existing research on injury prevention, talent dropout rates, and coaching strategies sets the foundation for understanding the challenges coaches face. The paper explores through key aspects, including the integration of injury prevention into training plans, maximizing available resources, overcoming resistance to change, and fostering individualized athlete engagement. By proposing practical solutions and preventive measures, this research contributes to the development of effective coaching methodologies, ensuring the sustained athletic potential of young talents.

Prevalence of noise-induced health hazards and occupational safety practices among welders in Mysuru city: a cross-sectional study

Background: Occupational exposure to noise is a significant concern in the welding industry, posing potential health hazards to workers. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of noise-induced health hazards, knowledge regarding these hazards, and the practice of preventive measures among welders in Mysuru City. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted and data was collected from welders in Mysuru City, including noise exposure levels, perceived stress levels, insomnia prevalence, and demographic characteristics. The association between the number of years of noise exposure and auditory/non-auditory health effects was analysed. Participants' awareness of noise-induced health hazards and the use of protective equipment were also evaluated. Results: The study included male participants, predominantly below 30 years of age, with a majority (74.3%) belonging to the Muslim community. Decreased hearing (11.5%) and sleep disorders (3%) were reported by participants. About half (53.7%) were aware of noise-induced health hazards, with a high usage of safety glasses but limited use of earplugs. Most had exposure to noise for less than 5 years. Moderate levels of perceived stress and low prevalence of insomnia were observed. Significant associations were found between the number of years of noise exposure and both auditory/non-auditory health hazards, as well as between age category and auditory health effects. Conclusions: The study reveals the prevalence of noise-induced health hazards among welders in Mysuru City and highlights the importance of promoting occupational health and safety measures. Raising awareness and encouraging the use of protective measures are crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of noise exposure in the welding industry.

A retrospective study on adverse events of intravenous administration of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles in abdominal and superficial applications in 83,778 patients.

To investigate the rate of adverse events (AEs) caused by intravenous administration of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles in abdominal and superficial applications retrospectively and to explore practical measures for prevention and treatment of them. This study enrolled 83,778 contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) examinations using sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles intravenously performed during 11 years. Age, gender, and target organs of all CEUS patients were recorded. For cases of AEs, their medical history and laboratory results were also collected. The process of AEs was assessed and categorized. Besides, the management of AEs were recorded. Twenty patients had sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles-related AEs. The AE rate was 0.024%. No significant difference was observed between patients with AEs and the whole group for age and sex distribution. All AEs happened in liver examinations. Among them, 7 (35%) were mild, 8 (40%) were moderate, and 5 (25%) were severe. They were categorized into 15 allergic-like reactions and 5 physiologic reactions. The manifestations of mild and moderate AEs mainly include urticaria, chills, and mild hypoxia, which could be eased by simple management. Severe cases had anaphylactic shock, generalized convulsions, and diffuse erythema with hypotension respectively. They need close monitoring and oxygen inhalation with anti-shock and anti-anaphylactic treatment. Most cases started within 30 min and recovered within 1 day. Intravenous administration of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles in abdominal and superficial applications was safe with rare AEs. AEs were more likely to happen in abdominal applications than superficial ones. A well-designed emergency plan should be available for clinical use of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles to reduce AEs and to deal with AEs properly. Intravenous administration of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles in abdominal and superficial applications reported few AEs and could be considered safe but severe AEs are life-threatening. We analyzed the influence factors of AEs and propose some methods for prevention and treatment of them, which can further improve the safety of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles in clinical practice. • The AE rate of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles in abdominal and superficial applications was 0.024%. • Patients were more likely to have AEs in abdominal applications than superficial ones. • Severe AEs are life-threatening and need prompt identification and treatment. • We summarized some detailed suggestions for clinical prevention and treatment of AEs.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Towards COVID-19 Among Pregnant and Postpartum Women in Rural Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

ObjectiveTo identify knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward COVID-19 among pregnant and postpartum women in rural Bangladesh, and to assess any association with antenatal care attendance (ANC).MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in Northern Bangladesh’s Sherpur district with a sample of pregnant and post-partum women enrolled in ‘Poriborton’, a community-based cluster Randomised Controlled Trial. Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward COVID-19, and any association with antenatal care practices were assessed through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Composite measures for knowledge, attitude, and practices of COVID-19 were generated. Specific knowledge on COVID-19 and the association of antenatal care were presented as descriptive statistics. An adjusted odds ratio was used to examine the association between categorical variables.ResultsOut of 4835 women, 34.0% correctly identified five or more COVID-19 symptoms, 31.8% knew three or more modes of coronavirus transmission, and 57.0% knew five or more preventive measures. Most (90.1%) had a “more positive attitude to testing” and 65.1% reported adequate practice of preventive measures. Women with adequate knowledge of COVID-19 were more likely to report both a positive attitude to testing (OR:2.96; 95% CI: 1.38–6.37) and adopt adequate practices of preventive measures (OR: 4.30;95% CI: 2.90–6.36). Education and being employed influenced KAP related to COVID-19. Only 14.9% were satisfied with their knowledge of COVID-19. Television was the main source of COVID-19-related specific information.ConclusionsWe found that improved knowledge was associated with positive attitudes and behaviours that lead to the adoption of preventive measures. There was no association with ANC practices as attendance was very low in this region. The findings could be utilised to develop communication strategies for future public health emergencies in similar settings.

COVID-19 preventive measures in Rohingya refugee camps: An assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice.

Although many studies were conducted on COVID-19 knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among the general population in many countries, very little is known about refugees, particularly Rohingya refugees in Cox's Bazar. A vast array of risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) interventions were implemented in Cox's Bazar with the intent of reducing disease transmission by empowering the community to adopt public health measures. The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of COVID-19 preventive measures among the Rohingya refugees in Cox's Bazar, and to identify their socio-demographic determinants. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 500 Rohingya individuals. Participants in the study were Rohingya refugees residing in five randomly selected camps where International Organization for Migration (IOM) Health was operating. Using a structured questionnaire, skilled community health workers surveyed the Rohingya population. In addition to the survey on knowledge, attitude, and practice, the study gathered information on the perspectives and relevance of sociodemographic factors that influence KAP. The study findings indicate that the mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 9.93, 7.55, and 2.71 respectively. Association was found between knowledge and practice level and age group-the elderly age group (>/ = 61 years) had less level of knowledge (AOR 0.42, P value = 0.058) and the late mid-age group (46-60 years) had better practice level (AOR 2.67, P value <0.001). Our study found that the Rohingya refugee community in Cox's Bazar has improved knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19 preventive measures. However, the practice level of these measures remains low compared to the knowledge and positive attitude. The reason behind the poor practice of preventive measures needs to be identified and addressed engaging the community in similar future outbreaks.

METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING THE PATHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF DISEASES AND FOREST PESTS ON THE SANITARY CONDITION OF FORESTS IN THE CONDITIONS OF FORESTRY BLANCHES OF THE CENTRAL INTERREGIONAL FORESTRY AND HUNTING MENEGMENT AND NATURE PROTECTION RESEARCH DEPARTMENT OF THE POLISSKY NATURE RESERVE

METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING THE PATHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF DISEASES AND FOREST PESTS ON THE SANITARY CONDITION OF FORESTS IN THE CONDITIONS OF FORESTRY BLANCHES OF THE CENTRAL INTERREGIONAL FORESTRY AND HUNTING MENEGMENT AND NATURE PROTECTION RESEARCH DEPARTMENT OF THE POLISSKY NATURE RESERVE

Knowledge and practice of masks during COVID-19 among non-teaching staff in a tertiary health care Centre, India

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has infected millions worldwide. Preventive interventions are beneficial to mitigate transmission, containment of the disease, and stop the resurgence of another wave of the pandemic. A cross-sectional study was done among non-teaching staff, aged 18 years or above willing to voluntarily participate to assess knowledge and practice of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary health care center. we also addressed the need for the use of face masks even after the vaccination is done. Subjects demonstrated good knowledge about transmission and practice of preventive measures for COVID-19. Among those, who were always (100%) using masks, marital status, education, and occupation had a significant association with the frequency of use of masks. While those, who were mostly (&amp;#62;50%) using masks, marital status, and education were significant determinants of the frequency of use of masks. The study highlighted the importance of knowledge and appropriate practice of the use of masks, which can help policymakers to predict success &amp; make necessary modifications based on it, to stop transmission and fluctuation in the declining phase of covid-19 pandemic.

Liver injury in malaria infected patients in Douala-Cameroon and its association with poor medical practice

BackgroundMalaria is an endemic mosquito-borne disease in sub-Saharan regions, including Cameroon. Due to the obligatory hepatic stage of its pathogenic agents, malaria can induce liver damage if not properly treated. Hence, we assessed the impact of malaria infection on liver transaminases among febrile patients consulting at the Deido District Hospital, Douala-Cameroon, in regard to their attitude towards the practice of preventive measures, treatment, and management of malaria.MethodsOver 10 weeks, 150 febrile patients and 28 healthy individuals serving as the control group were enrolled and their blood samples screened for Plasmodium species by Giemsa Staining and liver injury evaluated by measuring the serum level of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities. The socio-demographic characteristics of participants and their attitude towards the practice of preventive measures, treatment, and management of malaria were collected using a structured- questionnaire.ResultsAmong tested febrile patients, 113 (75%) were malaria-positive. Females were more affected (65.5%) than males; the most affected age group were adults between 30-60 years (55.8%). A significant association (p˂0.05; relative risk [RR] = 1.424 or p˂0.05; RR = 1.947) was found between malaria infection and non-use of mosquito nets or insecticides, respectively. The serum level of ALT and AST activities in malaria-positive were significantly (p<0.05) increased, compared to healthy or malaria-negative individuals. Furthermore, transaminase activity was significantly (p<0.05) elevated in non-practitioners of preventive measures; and in patients who engaged in auto-medication or traditional medication, compared to those who sought treatment from health centers.ConclusionOur findings demonstrated that non-practice of preventive measures, improper treatment and management of malaria infection can lead to an abnormal increase in serum level of transaminases which may reflect liver injury.

Recurrent West Nile virus outbreak in the United States in 2022: Current challenges and recommendations

West Nile virus (WNV) has afflicted various countries around the world, affecting not only humans but also non-human animals, such as horses and birds. WNV is an arbovirus that is transmitted to humans by mosquito bites. The WNV epidemic was initially localized to Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. An outbreak of WNV recently occurred in the United States (US), and is currently ongoing. This article aims to elucidate the trajectory of this ongoing outbreak in the US to inform efforts to control the recurring infection. As of November 15, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 913 cases of WNV in humans in the US, of which 639 (70%) were categorized as neuroinvasive and 274 (30%) were categorized as non-neuroinvasive disease. Health authorities should swiftly act before WNV reaches a severe level, to prevent aggravation of existing challenges amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 and monkeypox pandemics in the US. Decreasing breeding habitats, ongoing surveillance of mosquito larvae, biological and microbial larval control methods (fish and copepods), chemical control methods (larvicides), controlling adult mosquito vector populations (hot or cold aerosols), and active practice of community-based preventive measures may avoid widespread outbreaks of WNV in the US. This brief article discusses the ongoing outbreak of WNV in the US, and highlights epidemiological and preventive measures related to WNV infection.

Analysis on safety management measures in civil engineering construction

Building construction involves many complex processes such as high-altitude operations, mechanized equipment operations, and transportation and handling of building materials. Construction is a high-risk industry with frequent accidents. Therefore, some efficient and practical preventive measures need to be proposed immediately to reduce the occurrence of these accidents. This paper introduces different types of construction accidents and analyzes the reasons in combination with the theory of accident causation, to provide implementable ways to improve the safety performance of construction projects. Finally, a few precautions are offered in this paper to prevent the similar accidents from happening. The research results show that measures such as improving the safety evaluation system, strengthening the operating environment, strictly controlling the installation and dismantling links, enhancing the lighting conditions at night, and controlling minor accidents can effectively prevent the occurrence of construction safety accidents.

Implementing the free HPV vaccination for adolescent girls aged below 14 in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province of China: experience, challenges, and lessons

Cervical cancer is a major public health concern in China, accounting for almost one-fifth of the global incidence and mortality. The recently prequalified domestic bivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine offers a practical and feasible preventive measure. In response to the global call for action, the National Health Commission issued an Action Plan to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030, with promotion of the HPV vaccination for school-aged girls as a critical step. Despite this, implementation of the vaccination has been patchy, with very low coverage among eligible girls. To address this, from December 2021 to December 2022, a demonstration project was launched in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, to promote the inclusion of HPV vaccine in local immunisation programme and to address existing barriers to implementation. Using multiple sources of data, this article presents a case study of the demonstration project, analysing its impact on rolling out HPV vaccination among eligible girls and identifying any challenges encountered during implementation. The demonstration project has shown promising results in increasing the HPV vaccination rate, promoting public awareness and acceptance of the domestic HPV vaccine, and establishing a model for quickly scaling up the vaccination at the municipal level. The success of the project can be attributed to several factors, including strong governmental commitment, sufficient funding, multi-sectoral collaboration, ensured vaccine accessibility and affordability, improved vaccination services, and effective health education and communication strategies. Lessons learned from Shenzhen can provide valuable insights for future advocacy and implementation of the vaccination in other areas of China, but challenges must be addressed to achieve universal coverage. These include addressing vaccine hesitancy, expanding the programme to cover a broader age range, and ensuring consistent quality of vaccination services in primary care facilities. Overcoming these challenges will require innovative strategies, public-private partnerships, and sustained funding and resources. Future research should focus on evaluating the long-term effectiveness of the vaccination programme and identifying contextual factors that may impact its implementation in different settings. Overall, the effective control of cervical cancer in China will rely on the “political will” to ensure the incorporation of preventive interventions into policies and universal programme coverage.

The Effect of Health Education Toward Preventive Measures Of COVID-19 Among Employees in Duhok City-Iraq: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Increasing the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours of public sector employees regarding COVID-19 is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of this virus. A substantial portion of the community is made up of people who work in the public sector. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and enhance government workers' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 preventive measures among directorates in Duhok city in Iraqi Kurdistan. Methods: A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among directorates’ employees in Duhok city, the age ranged between 18 and 75. Simple random sampling was used in the study. A structured questionnaire was applied for pre and post-test for intervention and control group. The KAP questions included COVID-19 preventive measures (vaccines, face masks, social distances and hygiene). Results: The findings demonstrated that intervention group improved significantly at (P&lt;0.01) toward KAP related to COVID-19 preventive measures. In terms of knowledge, attitude, and practice of COVID-19 preventive measures, the intervention group exceeded the control group on the post-test compared to the pre-test. The significant changes were recorded among good level of economic status by (2.69) degrees increased in the difference between pre and post-test in intervention group. In contrast, there are no improving in the post-test among those very low income in terms of knowledge at (P&lt;0.01). however, the second large improvement was related to practice from (5.05) increased to (6.61) at (P&lt;0.01). All other demographic characteristics, including age, occupation, religion, education, and place of residence, showed statistically significant variance at (P &lt;0.01). Conclusion: Health education is regarded as beneficial for general awareness and crucial COVID-19 preventive measures.

Knowledge, attitude and practices of malaria preventive measures among mothers with children under five years in a rural setting of Ghana

BackgroundMalaria remains a major public health concern around the world, particularly in resource-constrained countries. Malaria still accounts for 40% of all Out-Patient Department (OPD) cases in Ghana, with children under the age of five being the most vulnerable group. The study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of malaria preventive measures among mothers with children under 5 years old in a rural setting in Ghana.MethodsA cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach was used in this study. The study was facility based and involved the use of interviewer administered questionnaires to collect data from 281 mothers with children under the age of five. Simple random sampling method was used to select the respondents. The data collected was analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 22 and results presented in tables.ResultsThere were 281 mothers, with 59.4% having children at the age of a year. The findings revealed that the majority of participants have a high level of knowledge about malaria’s causes, signs, and symptoms. Again, the majority of participants demonstrated a positive attitude toward malaria prevention, such as seeking treatment at a hospital within 24 h of suspecting their children had malaria and demonstrating good knowledge of malaria prevention practices. Despite this, 35.5% of respondents were not actively engaged in malaria prevention practices in a day prior to the interview. Respondents’ occupation, level of education, and religion had a statistically significant association with mothers’ attitude towards prevention (p-values < 0.05 and 0.01).ConclusionThe study’s findings clearly demonstrate that the majority of mothers were knowledgeable about the causes, signs and symptoms, and preventive measures of malaria in children under the age of five. There was also statistically significant association between mothers’ demographic information, including level of education, occupation, religion, and their attitude towards malaria prevention. A keen interest should be directed toward the consistent application of low-cost preventive measures.

Knowledge of COVID-19, the practice of preventive measures, and their predictors among the residents of an LGA in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Background: Knowledge is said to determine a behavioral change as well as the practice of good health. Was the knowledge of COVID-19 able to bring about positive behavioral changes and practices among the populace? This study assessed the knowledge of COVID-19, the practice of preventive measures as well as their predictors. Methodology: Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data on knowledge of COVID-19 and the practice of WHO COVID-19 preventive measures. Data were analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Categorical data were analyzed and reported as means, standard deviation, and frequency. Binary logistic regression was done to determine predictors. Results: Nine out of ten participants knew that a virus caused COVID-19 and that it could be transmitted by close contact; however, 3% felt it was a spiritual attack. Most participants knew COVID-19 is transmittable through talking (83.2%), coughing (95%), sneezing (93.2%), and directly through contaminated surfaces. Over 80% knew the most common symptoms of fever, cough, and fatigue. One-third of participants knew a change or loss of taste and smell are less severe symptoms and that the inability to speak or complete a sentence is a severe symptom. Though, 7 out of 10 participants knew all the preventive measures for COVID-19, a third was not practicing physical distancing. Age group, education, tribe, and religion were predictors of COVID-19 knowledge and that of practice was age group. Conclusion: Though many participants had good knowledge of COVID-19, etiology, transmission, and prevention, the knowledge about common symptoms and the severity of associated symptoms was poor. Their knowledge did not translate to practice because only 4 out of 10 practiced preventive measures.