Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding COVID‑19 in N'Djamena, Chad.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Sub-Saharan Africa faced significant challenges responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Chad, with high poverty, infectious disease burden, and underdeveloped infrastructure, required specific attention.
• Understanding population knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) is crucial for effective pandemic response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore COVID-19 KAPs in the Chadian population.
• To identify vulnerable population groups needing targeted interventions.
• To inform public health strategies in Chad.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted in N'Djamena, Chad.
• Convenience sampling included 2269 participants between May and August 2020.
• Data collected on knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to COVID-19.

Main Results:

• Most participants (83.65%) incorrectly answered technical COVID-19 questions but understood basic prevention and contagion.
• Significant differences in KAPs were observed based on gender, job conditions, and educational level.
• Men (49.41%) were more likely to follow preventive measures than women (32.07%); vulnerable job holders showed lower adherence (3.04% vs 1.19%).

Conclusions:

• Gender, job conditions, and education level are key determinants of COVID-19 KAPs in Chad.
• Public health strategies must consider these demographic and socioeconomic factors for targeted interventions.
• Addressing knowledge gaps and promoting consistent practice of preventive measures are essential for Chad's pandemic response.