Communication of science and Public Health Information, Epidemiology and management of COVID-19 in Zambia; Lessons learnt

Abstract

The study sought to understand the availability and adequacy of information about Covid-19; the veracity of information communicated by journalists to the public; misconceptions about Covid-19 among the various sections of society; the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the people around Covid-19; and establish best practices and lessons learnt on how to address the Covid-19 pandemic in future. This is a cross-sectional study that used a single-method approach based on the survey approach.  Thus, the study used a quantitative research methodology. Data were col-lected using self-administered structured questionnaires from households in Kazungu-la, Livingstone, Kafue, Lusaka, Kabwe, Kapiri Mposhi, and Nakonde districts in Zam-bia. Data analysis employed descriptive analysis. The study findings established that most of the respondents had heard of Covid-19 at the time of this survey and also understood the symptoms of Covid-19 that included coughing sneezing, shortness of breath, fever and some indicated diarrhoea. Further-more, the findings revealed that Covid-19 spreads from mouth droplets from infected persons, physical contact, and contact with animals infected with the virus. In terms of knowledge of measures to prevent the spread of the virus, respondents indicated hand washing with soap and masking, while others indicated social distancing, reducing pub-lic gatherings, staying at home, and avoiding physical.The study also noted various challenges in Covid-19 information communication as well as some best practices. In terms of challenges encountered in communicating Covid-19, the study noted misinformation, misconceptions, and conspiracy theories around Covid-19. The study further noted various measures put in place by the dis-tricts, such as having District Response Teams to coordinate sensitisations. Recom-mendations were made to health practitioners and policy makers.