Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to COVID-19 in Iran: Questionnaire Study

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly growing outbreak, the future course of which is strongly determined by people’s adherence to social distancing measures. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge level, attitudes, and practices of the Iranian population in the context of COVID-19. METHODS: A nationwide study was conducted from March 24 to April 3, 2020, whereby data were collected via an online self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: Responses from 12,332 participants were analyzed. Participants’ mean knowledge score was 23.2 (SD 4.3) out of 30. Most participants recognized the cause of COVID-19, its routes of transmission, its symptoms and signs, predisposing factors, and prevention measures. Social media was the leading source of information. Participants recognized the dangers of the situation and felt responsible for following social distancing protocols, as well as isolating themselves upon symptom presentation. Participants’ mean practice score was 20.7 (SD 2.2) out of 24. Nearly none of the respondents went on a trip, and 92% (n=11,342) washed their hands before touching their faces. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of COVID-19 among people in Iran was nearly sufficient, their attitudes were mainly positive, and their practices were satisfactory. There is still room for improvement in correcting misinformation and protecting people from deception. Iranians appear to support government actions like social distancing and care for their and others’ safety.