Knowledge, attitude and practices towards SARS-CoV-2 genetic mutations and emerging variants among the population in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES: The coronavirus is continuously mutating and creating new SARS-CoV-2 variants. Public awareness about SARS-CoV-2 mutation is essential for effective preventive measures. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) towards SARS-CoV-2 variants among the general population in Bangladesh. DESIGN: We conducted this online survey between 9 April 2021 and 10 May 2021 using structured questionnaires to collect the information. SETTING: We distributed the survey link among the participants from all 64 districts of Bangladesh using social media platforms. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 1,090 respondents completed this survey. After careful evaluation, we excluded 18 responses due to partial or incomplete information, and 1,072 responses entered into the final analysis. PRIMARY OUTCOME: The KAP of participants towards SARS-CoV-2 variants depends on their demographic backgrounds. Associations between demographic characteristics and the likelihood of having adequate KAP were estimated using adjusted logistic regressions. RESULTS: Among the participants, 42% had a poor knowledge level, 4% had a low attitude level and 14% had a poor practice score. The average knowledge, attitude and practice score were 2.65, 4.194 and 4.464 on a scale of 5, respectively. Only 51.8% of the participants knew about mutant strains, and only 47.6% knew about the effectiveness of vaccines against new variants. The key factors associated with poor knowledge levels were educational levels, area of residence, geographic location, and concern regarding COVID-19. Sociodemographic factors for poor attitude levels were geographic location, vaccination and concern regarding COVID-19. The pivotal factors in determining poor practice scores were the residence area of people and concern regarding COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge level and positive attitude are associated with better preventive measures against SARS-CoV-2 variants. Based on these findings, we recommended several awareness programmes on SARS-CoV-2 mutations and variants for the rural population in Bangladesh to increase overall awareness levels.