Knowledge of community members on COVID-19 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Introduction: more cases of COVID-19 continue to be reported in Nigeria. The level of knowledge could prompt individuals to take precautionary measures and reduce the spread. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of community members in Ibadan on COVID-19. Methods: using a descriptive cross-sectional study design, an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from adult community members. Multistage sampling methods were used to select respondents from four local government areas (LGAs). Knowledge scores of causes, mode of spread, signs and symptoms and preventive measures were computed. Scores above the mean were categorized as satisfactory. Bivariate chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were performed on respondents' characteristics and knowledge of COVID-19. Results: respondents interviewed were 480 with a median age of 32 years (range: 18-80 years), and 191 (39.8%) aged between 25 and 34 years. Females were 275 (57.3%), 18 (3.8%) had never heard of COVID-19. The main source of information was radio 88.1% and television 54.3%. In all the knowledge domains 200 (43.3%) had satisfactory knowledge of COVID-19. Respondents in Ibadan North-West LGA had five times odds [OR=5.23 (95% CI=2.87-9.54)] of having satisfactory knowledge of COVID-19 while respondents in Ibadan North-East LGA had three times odds [OR=3.35 (95%CI=1.85-6.09)] compared to those in Ibadan South East LGA. Conclusion: an even dissemination strategy of COVID-19 information across the communities is required. More sensitization and health education sessions should be broadcast on the radio and television. Regular COVID-19 broadcast is required to improve the knowledge level of community members.