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. 2021 Jan-Mar:9:41-46.
doi: 10.1016/j.cegh.2020.06.009. Epub 2020 Jun 30.

Public perception and preparedness for the pandemic COVID 19: A Health Belief Model approach

Regi Jose  1 , Meghana Narendran  1 , Anil Bindu  1 , Nazeema Beevi  1 , Manju L  1 , P V Benny  1
Affiliations

Public perception and preparedness for the pandemic COVID 19: A Health Belief Model approach

Regi Jose et al. Clin Epidemiol Glob Health. 2021 Jan-Mar.

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19) pandemic is recognized as a major threat to human health in 2020. As the disease is new and spreading quickly, the scientific community is reporting new information daily to address this issue. The public is well informed and is ready to adopt the protective and preventive measures suggested by the authorities.

Aim & objective: This study is aimed at understanding the perception towards the pandemic using the Health Belief Model (HBM) approach, preparedness measures adopted, opinion and confidence towards various Governmental activities and control measures.

Methods and material: A Cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults across the Kerala state using modified WHO Cosmo protocol and questionnaires implemented through google forms in late April during the preparedness phase of the disease.

Statistical analysis: The results were explained using descriptive and Binary Logistic Regression analysis using SPSS version 22.

Results: Among the 680 participants, 675 (99.3%) were aware about COVID-19 and 598 (88%) had good knowledge. Behavioural change was observed in 638 (93.8%) and variables in Health Belief Model showed a significant association with behavioural change.

Conclusions: Most people living across Kerala approached the COVID-19 pandemic in a similar manner, irrespective of age, education, or relation to the healthcare field. Perceptions of the community as explained by Health Belief Model was greatly influenced by the primary health care approach by the government and for the subsequent behavioural change.

Keywords: COVID-19; Disease outbreaks; Health belief model; Health risk behaviors; Pandemics; Prevention & control.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Perceptions of Susceptibility, Severity, Benefits, Self-Efficacy, Barriers, Cues for Action and COVID19 Behavioural Change Perceived susceptibility was 445 (65.4%). Perceived severity for getting infected was 379 (55.7%). Self-efficacy was less among 267 (39.3%) and 413 (60.7%) perceived that they were confident in avoiding an infection. Perceived barriers were more among 448 (65.9%).
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Perceptions of affect towards COVID 19 Feeling Stressful, helpless, fear inducing, media hype, spread and the disease been felt close to the participants were assessed as affect towards COVID-19.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Community Preparedness Measures for Societal Control Measures(Lockdown) About 210 (31%) bought extra regular medication, 163 (24%) had stocked food supplies while and 358 (53%) had no intensions to do it. About 442 (65%) of them asked friends & family not to visit them and 495 (73%) avoided visiting family.
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Public opinion towards various Governmental programmes for COVID 19 The opinion towards various governmental programmes, about 660(97%), 648(95%), 645(95%), 640(94%) each and 650 (96%) appreciated for Break the chain campaign, Complete Lockdown, Health Department Preparedness, Ration distribution, Community Kitchen, Airport Surveillance each, and IEC Activities.
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