Knowledge and Awareness of the Coronavirus Disease and Perceptions Towards Ophthalmic Practice Among Ophthalmologists

Objective: To investigate the level of awareness ophthalmologists towards COVID-19 and their perceptions infection control in ophthalmic practice. Methods: A web-based survey was conducted using Google Forms during month December 2020. All practicing Sudan were invited to participate study. Participants who did not agree terms electronic consent form presented at beginning questionnaire as well those complete survey, excluded from analysis. Knowledge causes, symptoms, methods transmission COVID-19; ophthalmologists’ attitudes clinical practice, including contact lens assessed a set 26 multiple-choice close-ended questions. Results: Of 307 participants, 77.4% age range 30-40 years 73% practitioners. While 96.1% acknowledged scientific name COVID-19, 46.9% aware its cause. Ophthalmologists aged 40-50 more likely that air-puffing tonometer risks spread (OR 1.62, 95% CI: 0.27-9.70, p<0.01). slit lamp shield would reduce risk 1.52, 0.33-6.96, Contact practitioners perceive frequent replacement use can increase 2.64, 1.17-5.94, Conclusion: demonstrated mixed knowledge modes COVID-19. majority able identify protective measures generally required by medical patients, there limited regarding specific practices, especially when dealing with lenses. Official national guidelines about safe service provision pandemic are recommended.