European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an emerging viral respiratory disease
that has currently reached apandemic status.This study aimed to assessCOVID-19 knowledge,
attitudes, and practices among the Kurdishpopulation in Iraq.
Methods: This cross-sectional studywas conducted fromJuly 15 to September 15, 2020 among the
Kurdish population in Iraq. A total of 885 subjects were interviewed. All subjects were aged 15–75
years. Knowledgescores, attitudes, and practices of subjects were analyzed according to demographic
characteristics.
Results:The study subjects were largely male,the average age was31.79 years,and 41.92% subjects
were from Erbil province. Approximately 85.31% subjectshad enhancedknowledge regarding disease
prevention and control. The lowest subscale scores were related toclinical manifestations of the
disease. Knowledge scores were significantly associated with age, place of current residence, and
level of education.A large number of participants believed COVID-19 would be controlled and the
fight against the pandemic would be won.Subjects’ attitudes toward success differedsignificantly by
demographic characteristics, except marital status. Approximately 40.03% subjects reported that they
had not visited a crowded place, and 60.22% of these subjects wore face masks when leaving home.