COVID-19 and its safety measures

Opinions on the level of knowledge and compliance in Anambra state, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated COVID-19 and its safety measures. An in-depth interview involving 36 respondents from selected commercial areas in Anambra state, Nigeria was adopted. Thematic analysis was adopted in analyzing the data collected. Findings revealed that respondents have basic knowledge of COVID-19, and its preventive measures derived mostly on hearsay and radios. The study exposed some misconceptions and compliance behaviours of the respondents. The level of compliance to the prescribed safety measures was found to have dwindled influenced by misinformation/misconceptions, belief system, perceptions, etc. These findings give insight into the need for collaborative intervention among different professionals, governments, organizations and agencies in the fight against COVID-19. The study suggests that public sensitization should be intensified by social workers to remove misconceptions, rekindle compliance behaviour and strengthen surveillance.