Adherence to COVID-19 Prevention Measures in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Results of Two Consecutive Online Surveys

Résumé fourni par la source

Adherence to preventive measures is essential to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Two online surveys were conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from 23 April to 8 June 2020, and from August 24th to September 8th, respectively. A total of 3268 (round 1) and 4160 (round 2) participants were included. In both surveys, there was a moderate level of adherence to regular handwashing (85% and 77%, respectively), wearing of facemasks (41.4% and 69%, respectively), and respecting physical distancing (58% and 43.4%, respectively). The second survey found that, working in private (OR = 2.31, CI: 1.66–3.22; p < 0.001) and public organizations (OR = 1.61, CI: 1.04–2.49; p = 0.032) and being a healthcare worker (OR = 2.19, CI: 1.57–3.05; p < 0.001) significantly increased the odds for better adherence. However, a unit increase in age (OR = 0.99, CI: 0.98–0.99; p < 0.026), having attained lower education levels (OR = 0.60, CI: 0.46–0.78; p < 0.001), living in a room (OR = 0.36, CI: 0.15–0.89; p = 0.027), living in a studio (OR = 0.26, CI: 0.11–0.61; p = 0.002) and apartment (OR = 0.29, CI: 0.10–0.82; p = 0.019) significantly decreased the odds for better adherence. We recommend a multi-sectorial approach to monitor and respond to the pandemic threat. While physical distancing may be difficult in Africa, it should be possible to increase the use of facemasks.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.