COVID-19 and Saudi medical students: A cross-sectional study on knowledge, preventive behaviors, and risk perception

BACKGROUND: The knowledge, preventive behaviors, and risk perception of the COVID-19 pandemic among health care workers can affect virus transmission and control. As the primary individuals in contact with infected patients, health care workers risk infection. There are a few studies on the knowledge and self-practice prevention for COVID-19 among medical students. OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the COVID-19-related knowledge, preventive behaviors, and risk perceptions among medical students and interns. METHODS: This study used a quantitative cross-sectional evaluation of the Saudi Arabian medical students utilizing a previously published online survey in 2020. RESULTS: The study questionnaire was completed by 474 respondents. The average knowledge and preventive behavior score was significantly lower in males. The reported source of information showed a statistically significant association with knowledge and was higher in the respondents who reported world health organization (WHO)/centers for disease control and prevention (CDC)/UpToDate as their main source of information. The National Guidelines of the Ministry of Health was the second source to be reported for seeking information. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between the knowledge and preventive measures scores. The respondents who did not follow any information regarding COVID-19 had significantly lower knowledge and preventive behavior scores than those obtaining knowledge from sources. The preventive behavior score was not significantly different between clinical and pre-clinical students. CONCLUSION: This study assessed the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of COVID-19 following the onset of the pandemic in Saudi Arabia, indicating an acceptable level of undergraduate students’ knowledge regarding the epidemic and its control measures.