Knowledge, attitudes and practices of COVID-19 safety protocols in Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

COVID-19 infodemic took centre-stage in global efforts towards containing the pandemic. Due to novelty of the virus, it became obligatory for experts and relevant agencies to enlighten the public on the nature of the virus as well as the safety protocols that must be adopted to contend its spread and enhance positive behavioural traits. It is against this backdrop, that this study examines the knowledge, attitude, and practices of COVID-19 safety protocol among residents of Taraba State, Nigeria. Data were generated using a cross-sectional survey where 332 respondents were administered questionnaire via cluster sampling technique across the three senatorial districts of the state. Findings reveal high level of knowledge and awareness of COVID-19 safety protocols courtesy of sustained sensitization from conventional and informal channels of communication. However, attitudes of the people towards the safety protocols were not commensurate to the level of awareness, a factor that is attributable to the predominance of fake news and conspiracy theories about the pandemic that were popularized mostly through informal sources which consequently undermined government’s efforts in fighting the virus. The study concludes that although COVID-19 awareness was widespread, most people got their information from informal channels that contained a high dose of fake news and misinformation. To this end, the study recommends that government and its agents should diversify communication channels and evolve a people-oriented strategy that will recognise the popular channels of information among the people, and not just rely on conventional media channels.