A study on determinants of COVID-19 knowledge and preventive practices among Polish schools teachers: Maria Gańczak

BACKGROUND: Sufficient knowledge and preventive practices are crucial to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2. To date, some data regarding these issues have been reported among different professions, whereas such information is inaccessible in teachers. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted between May-June 2021 in 3 randomly selected Polish provinces, in 26 schools. An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire which included 10 questions related to COVID-19 knowledge and 13 questions about preventive practices was used. Each correct answer to the question about COVID-19 knowledge was given 1 point and question about preventive practices was given 1 to 3 point (max. 11 and 39 points respectively). Bi- and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to identify the predictors of COVID-19 knowledge; simple/multiple linear regression analyses were done for factors associated with practices. RESULTS: 464 teachers were included (response rate was 55%), 92% females, mean age 45.6±10.2 years. The average COVID-19 knowledge score was 6.6±3.76 points; in 77% of teachers the knowledge level was >50%. The mean of preventive practices score was 15.8±1.78 points; 204 (55.1%, 95% CI 50.0% to 60.2%) respondents scored above the mean score of preventive practices. Wearing a mask (β: 0.09 95%CI 0.00-0.03), washing hands (β: 0.09 95%CI 0.00-0.02), avoiding crowds (β: 0.12 95%CI 0.01-0.07), and avoiding visiting relatives (β: 0.10 95%CI 0.00-0.07) were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with knowledge about COVID-19. Knowledge was the strongest predictor of avoiding crowds (β coefficient = 0.12). CONCLUSIONS: Significant number of school teachers had inadequate COVID-19 knowledge and were poorly engaged in COVID-19 preventive practices. As knowledge level strongly influences adequate preventive behavior, additional educational intervention is urgently needed for teachers to help them better manage the pandemic at the school setting. KEY MESSAGES: • This study assessed COVID-19 knowledge and preventive practices, as well as related determinants among primary school teachers. • This study assessed the attitudes of primary school teachers towards the Covid-19 pandemic.