Hospital Visitors’ Awareness and Adaptation of Preventive Measures for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus

Abstract

Objective This study aims to assess the knowledge and awareness, and to identify the practice reflection of knowledge concerning MERS on hospital visitor’s daily life. Methods A cross-sectional study, conducted in two tertiary referral hospitals, Riyadh KSA from February 2015 to February 2016. A total random sample of 305 hospital visitors consented to participate. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire consisting of questions regarding awareness and practice of measures to prevent the spread of infection. Results Study shows that Participants have a fair knowledge regarding the cause of MERS, (N=228, 74.8%). Nearly half of them (47%) stated that camels are the source of the spread of MERS. About 70% of the participants preferred both sanitization and wearing facemasks as preventive measures for MERS. However, only 3.95% practiced not eating camel products like milk and meat. Conclusion Although Hospital visitors showed some knowledge and positive awareness in several aspects of MERS awareness. There are weak areas where knowledge and awareness were not up-to recommended guidelines. Continued educational programs are needed, to improve awareness and knowledge of all the public towards MERS-CoV infection. This study may assist in the development of future strategies on preventive measures of the disease