Ibad Sha I*, Ajin Edwin, Jyothis George, Namitha Shah and Roshna SR
Introduction: The rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic globally has evolved as a major concern and Healthcare workers (HCWs) working in the forefront, fighting the virus is at higher risk of contracting the infection compared to the general population. The aim of this study is to analyse the awareness of COVID-19 disease among final year medical students in the state of Kerala. Materials and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey based on a web based questionnaire carried out among final year medical students of two different government medical colleges in Kerala. The survey comprised a total of 18 questions and was to evaluate awareness about COVID-19, knowledge about the symptoms, modes of transmission and precautions for reducing risk of contracting the disease. Results: A total of 350 students were approached and 260 responses were obtained. Most of them were well aware of the source of infection and the modes of spread. Majority of the respondents also were knowledgeable about the different aspects of basic protective measures that should be followed in order to prevent the transmission of the disease. They also know regarding the period of home isolation, how it should be done and the others measures to be followed by family members during home isolation. Conclusion: COVID-19 pandemic is spreading rapidly and health care workers are exposed to the highest risk. The final year medical graduates have high knowledge levels regarding the spread and measures needed to be taken to reduce the transmission of the disease which can be attributed to the efforts by state and central government to create awareness.
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