Knowledge, Perceptions and Behaviors Related to COVID-19 in a University Setting in Malaysia

• DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.873022
• Publication Date: 2022-04-11T06:22:10Z
• Authors: Kai Wei Lee; Sook Fan Yap; Hooi Tin Ong; Pooi Pooi Leong; Nadia Mohamad Hatta; Munn Sann Lye
• Keywords: Preparedness; Risk Perception; Pandemic; Cross-sectional study

Background In Malaysia the COVID-19 disease (COVID-19) has continued to escalate since its first detection in late January 2020, despite widespread implementation of control measures. This study aims determine knowledge, perception and behaviors with respect midst third wave infection. Methods A cross-sectional was carried out among staffs students Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). The survey consists basic sociodemographic information, 22 items on knowledge COVID-19, 3 perceived self-risk, 2 preparedness & self-efficacy, 10 preventive (own) measures, 9 assessing unwanted desirable during pandemic. Simple multiple linear regression were performed factors associated measures adopted, self-risk perception, behaviors. Results total 434 responded whom majority (85.1%) had high scores for (mean score 18.72 22). significant positive association found between older age (adjusted B coefficient (SE) = 0.046 (0.022), p 0.039), those from medical faculty 0.870 (0.420), 0.039) residence high-risk areas 0.831 (0.295), 0.005). Predictors higher risk included presence cases social contacts 0.751 (0.308), 0.015) living elderly 1.137 (0.296), < 0.001), while that self-efficacy children Beta 0.440 (0.173), 0.011) absence 0.418 (0.183), 0.023). Good respondents positively 0.116 (0.025), as well female gender 0.348 (0.142), 0.014). Unwanted behavior significantly male 0.664 (0.321), status 9.736 (3.297), 0.003). Knowledge 0.069 (0.035), 0.048) being married 0.917 (0.462), predictors behavior. Conclusion Overall, UTAR community demonstrated a good level behaviors, albeit some improvement.