Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices and Mental Health Status of Trainees in Selected Health Institutes Regarding COVID-19 in Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak a global pandemic. Knowledge about COVID-19 is an important determinant towards successful disease control. This study was designed to elucidate the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) and mental health status regarding COVID-19 amongst trainees of two institutes in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2021. A bilingual survey recorded the responses of 400 participants from the institutes. Variables, such as sex, age, marital status, occupation, level of education, number of family members and living place, were collected in a structured proforma. Unstandardised regression coefficients (95%) were used for evaluating the association among variables with KAP and mental health during COVID-19. The statistical significance level was determined at p<0.05.The mean correct answer score regarding knowledge about COVID-19 was 23.5 (SD=2.1), indicating an overall 87% correct rate. The mean correct answer score regarding attitude towards COVID-19was 18.4 (SD=2.3), indicating an overall 87.2% correct rate. The mean correct answer score regarding practice towards COVID-19 was 35 (SD=3.4), indicating an overall 89.7% correct rate. The mean correct answer score regarding mental health status during COVID-19 was 24 (SD=4.7), indicating an overall 80% correct rate. Thus, the results showed that being female; belonging to a higher age group; having a healthcare related occupation; being married; and having a higher level of education were significantly associated with higher KAP test scores. Furthermore, belonging to a higher age group; having a healthcare related occupation; being married; and having a higher level of education were significantly associated with poor mental health.