KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF COVID-19 PROTOCOLS AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN OSUN STATE UNIVERSITY, OSOGBO CAMPUS, NIGERIA

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic remains a major global health challenge requiring strict adherence to preventive protocols. University students, despite their high mobility and social activity, often show inconsistent compliance with these measures. This study assessed knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 protocols among undergraduates at Osun State University. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 students selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire that covered socio-demographic characteristics and KAP domains. Analysis employed IBM SPSS version 25, using chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify associations between variables, with significance set at p=<0.05. Most respondents were female (62.3%), with a mean age of 20.4 (±2) years. Although knowledge (89.4%) and attitudes (95.1%) toward COVID-19 were largely favorable, 74.9% exhibited poor preventive practices. Academic level (p=0.009), religion (p=0.001), and living arrangement (OR=0.042, CI:0.009–0.918) significantly predicted good knowledge. Age (p=0.021) predicted positive attitude, while college (p=0.005), age (p=0.002), faculty (p=0.024), religion (p=0.022), and family setting (p=0.024) predicted good practice. Despite strong knowledge and positive attitudes, a notable practice gap persists. Targeted behavioral interventions that leverage social media and integrate with university health programs are recommended to enhance adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures among undergraduates.