Knowledge, Perception, and Attitudes of Residents of Northern Region of Ghana Towards COVID-19

Background: Africa is gradually becoming an epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the current disease trend, Africa might be the last hardest-hit continent. While scientific investigations continue to develop effective management through medications and vaccines, existing knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes could be harnessed to develop an effective strategy to curb community transmission of COVID-19. The present study assessed the awareness level, perceptions, and attitudes of people living in rural, peri-urban, and urban communities in Northern Ghana and their preparedness for the prevention and containment of COVID-19. Methods: We conducted a face-to-face interview and administered 553 semi-structured questionnaires in 18 rural, peri-urban, and urban communities in Tolon District, Kumbungu District, Sagnarigu Municipality, Savelugu Municipality, and Tamale Metropolis from April 23 to June 8, 2020. Results: The percentages of males and females among the respondents were 56.8% and 43.2%, respectively. Nearly half (41%) of the respondents had no formal education, and 91.3% of them were Muslims. Most respondents (85%) believed that COVID-19 is a punishment from God. There was a significant difference (P 0.001) between the first-time rural, peri-urban, and urban communities heard of COVID-19. The majority (63%) of the rural respondents depended on radio, while the peri-urban and urban respondents (51%) relied on TV for information on COVID-19. All respondents were aware of COVID-19, and 91.7% could mention at least two symptoms of the disease. However, 18% believed there was no COVID-19 in Ghana. Most respondents (69.6%) thought they would not contract the virus.  Conclusion: Our findings may provide valuable data to the government and other stakeholders to control COVID-19.