COVID-19 and Saudi medical students: A cross-sectional study on knowledge, preventive behaviors, and risk perception

The knowledge, preventive behaviors, and risk perception of the COVID-19 pandemic among health care workers can affect virus transmission and control. As the primary individuals in contact with infected patients, health care workers risk infection. There are a few studies on the knowledge and self-practice prevention for COVID-19 among medical students.

This study evaluated the COVID-19-related knowledge, preventive behaviors, and risk perceptions among medical students and interns.

This study used a quantitative cross-sectional evaluation of the Saudi Arabian medical students utilizing a previously published online survey in 2020.

The study questionnaire was completed by 474 respondents. The average knowledge and preventive behavior score was significantly lower in males. The reported source of information showed a statistically significant association with knowledge and was higher in the respondents who reported world health organization (WHO)/centers for disease control and prevention (CDC)/UpToDate as their main source of information. The National Guidelines of the Ministry of Health was the second source to be reported for seeking information. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between the knowledge and preventive measures scores. The respondents who did not follow any information regarding COVID-19 had significantly lower knowledge and preventive behavior scores than those obtaining knowledge from sources. The preventive behavior score was not significantly different between clinical and pre-clinical students.

This study assessed the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of COVID-19 following the onset of the pandemic in Saudi Arabia, indicating an acceptable level of undergraduate students' knowledge regarding the epidemic and its control measures.