Factors Affecting Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) Toward COVID-19Pandemic Among College Students in Masbate, Philippines

Abstract

This study aimed to survey college students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward COVID-19 and identify underlying demographic factors that influence them. A cross-sectional quick online survey of 243 students mostly women (66.7%) was carried out between May 1 to May 8, 2020. Results show that 85.5%-86% of the students relied on the internet, social, and mass media as their primary sources of information on the COVID-19 pandemic. 49.9% of the student participants have optimal knowledge of COVID-19 with a 78.5% overall correct response rate on the knowledge test. 97.1% are aware of disease prevention and control measures but only 49.8%are knowledgeable about the disease transmission routes. Participants also hold a very high positive outlook on health and safety protocols and a higher level of practice towards disease prevention. Multiple regression analyses revealed that age and ability to spot fake news are significantly associatedwith higher levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices.