Knowledge, attitude and perception of Pakistanis towards COVID-19; a large cross-sectional survey

Abstract Background The Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) has created havoc globally as countries worldwide struggle to combat this pandemic. Since prevention and social isolation are known be the only ways prevent spread of COVID-19, challenges among lower-middle income (LMIC) including Pakistan, it battles between an under-resourced healthcare, economic shutdown, widespread myths misconceptions. Therefore, a study was conducted evaluate knowledge, attitude perceptions regarding COVID-19 public understanding is vital help facilitate control outbreak. Methods A pre-validated online questionnaire distributed general population Pakistan from 1st 12th June 2020. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using SPSS v25. Adequate knowledge assigned score > 4 (range: 0–8) good perception 3 0–5). Chi-square test used determine significance difference in with socio-demographic characteristics. Logistic regression analysis run identify factors associated adequate perception. P < 0.05 considered significant. Results total 1200 respondents participated wide range age groups education. Majority had (93.3%) mean 6.59 ± 1.35, (85.6%) 4.29 0.82. Significant differences observed genders, groups, education students employees healthcare non-healthcare department. multivariate revealed higher educational status female gender significant predictors Conclusions Albeit surge cases participants demonstrated overall towards COVID-19. There need follow preventive protocols dissemination correct information through conducting interventions that target safe health practices provide appropriate on infection.