Misconceptions about COVID-19 among Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to ensure that healthcare workers have accurate and up-to-date information about the transmission, prevention, and management of the disease. This knowledge is essential for effectively containing the epidemic and reducing morbidity and mortality rates. However, many misconceptions and myths surrounding COVID-19 can impede these efforts. This study aimed to identify the prevalent misconceptions about COVID-19 among healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study design conducted in among healthcare workers in primary healthcare centers in Saudi Arabia. Convenience sampling was used for this study, with an online survey link sent to healthcare workers in Meccah city. The survey instrument was a structured online questionnaire, consisting of three sections. Section A contained questions about the sociodemographic factors of healthcare workers, Section B contained 12 questions to assess the knowledge of COVID-19, and Section C contained questions about common myths and misconceptions.
Results: A total sample of 384 health workers in PHC centers responded to the questionnaire, of them 59.5% were males. About 31% were general practitioners, 24.2% were specialists, 15.2% were laboratory technicians, and the remaining 30% distributed, pharmacists, dentists, nurses, and medical specialists. The source of information was significantly related to the knowledge about COVID-19 (p=0.009). Respondents who get information about COVID-19 from reading materials, such as books or the internet, and health staff have a higher level of knowledge than those who depend on educational lectures or those who get information from friends or relatives.
Conclusions: The level of knowledge about COVID-19 is good among health workers, compared to other populations, however, there are areas of improvement. Lack of accurate information and the spreading of rumors that jeopardize trust in the vaccine are the main reasons for low knowledge and high vaccine hesitancy.