Knowledge towards COVID-19 preventive measures, and beliefs on use of herbal products as protective measure against COVID-19 infection

Abstract

To assess the knowledge towards COVID-19 preventive measures and symptoms, and belief on herbal supplement as protective measure against COVID-19 infection among general public in Malaysia. A cross-sectional survey questionnaire was conducted among 423 respondents that comprised of three (3) different sections consisting as Section A (demographics characteristics of the respondents). Section B (evaluation of respondent’s knowledge towardsCOVID-19 preventive measures and symptoms) and Section C (evaluation of respondent’s belief about use of herbal products during COVID-19 pandemic). Overall, a good knowledge towards COVID-19 preventive measures and symptoms, and moderate belief on herbal supplement as protective measure against COVID-19 infection was observed. Mean knowledge score was found to be 10.38±1.56 whereas mean belief scores were 36.6±6.52. Also, a significant association was observed between respondent’s occupation (p = 0.029) with knowledge towards COVID-19 preventive measures and symptoms. Furthermore, the relationship between respondent’s knowledge towards COVID-19 preventive measure and symptoms, and respondent’s belief on herbal supplement as protective measure against COVID-19 infection was insignificant (p = 0.053). A good knowledge towards COVID-19 preventive measures and symptoms, and moderate belief on herbal supplement as protective measure against COVID-19 infection.