Knowledge, attitudes and practices of the population of Sikasso in the face of COVID-19 in Mali in 2021

Abstract

Introduction: In November 2021, worldwide, 253,870,057 COVID-19 infections and 5,107,084 deaths were recorded worldwide. The region of Sikasso, in Mali, had 521 cases and 15 deaths during the same period. The objective of our study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of the population of Sikasso on preventive measures against COVID-19. Material and methods: We carried out a cross-sectional, descriptive study between December 2, 2020 and June 30, 2021. The study population consisted of callers to the freephone number 36061 from COVID-19 in the said region who consented to our study. Each KAP was rated 0 or 1. The total score, the maximum of which was 34 points, was assessed as Insufficient (<15 points); Satisfactory (≥15 points and <25 points); Very satisfactory (≥25points). Results: The average age of the callers was 19.31±6.66 years with a sex ratio of 3.24 in favor of men. Radio was the main source of information about COVID-19 (20.47%). More than half (51.48%) of respondents did not trust the vaccine. Among the people informed about the availability of the vaccine, 85.20% consented to the vaccination. The KAP score was insufficient for the region (13.38 points) and in all circles except Yanfolila where it was satisfactory (15.50 points). Conclusion: The low level of KAP score and the lack of confidence in the vaccine was remarkable. Reinforced communication and awareness-raising activities are essential for the control of COVID-19.