KNOWLEDGE RELATED TO THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (SARS-COV-2) AMONG GEORGIAN POPULATION

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Disease

Background:

• Georgia confirmed its first SARS-CoV-2 infection on February 26, 2020.
• Despite initial government measures, SARS-CoV-2 cases were increasing, necessitating understanding of public perception.
• Limited epidemic understanding can foster panic and hinder public health containment efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge and attitudes regarding SARS-CoV-2 among the Georgian population, including healthcare workers (HCWs).
• To evaluate public perception of government preparedness for the COVID-19 epidemic.
• To identify misconceptions about coronavirus, influenza, and available treatments or vaccines.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was conducted via Facebook advertisement targeting the entire Georgian population.
• Data collected included demographics, knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 symptoms/transmission, perceived differences between COVID-19 and influenza, and views on government preparedness.
• The survey was administered from March 2-4, 2020, with 5228 participants completing it.

Main Results:

• A significant minority (25.8%) confused COVID-19 with influenza, with another 10.9% unsure.
• While knowledge of symptoms (98.0%) and transmission (96.9%) was high, 13.2% would attend public events with symptoms.
• Only 19.1% believed Georgia was prepared for the epidemic; 55% felt it was not, and 18% deemed the response inadequate. 20% believed treatments/vaccines existed but were unavailable in Georgia.

Conclusions:

• Misconceptions about COVID-19 and influenza persist, alongside concerns about government preparedness and treatment availability.
• Knowledge levels regarding SARS-CoV-2 symptoms and transmission were generally high, but behavioral intentions (e.g., attending events when sick) were concerning.
• The rapid evolution of information necessitates timely, targeted educational campaigns and clear communication strategies to combat misinformation and bolster public health efforts.