Exploration of Chinese Parental Awareness About COVID-19 Outbreaks

Abstract

Background: Currently children’s COVID-19 case numbers are gradually increased in various countries, and many parents fear for their children’ safety after schools reopen. The aim of this research was to investigate Chinese parents’ awareness of pediatric COVID-19 in relation to protecting their children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Fujian and Jiangsu provinces in China using a web-based research questionnaire to investigate parents with children aged 6 to 16 years old. Results: Research samples included 1222 participants. 99.2% of participants were aware of respiratory transmission of COVID-19, and 75.6% also believed fecal-oral transmission to be possible. Although 98.3% of participants reported knowing how to properly wear and remove masks, most parents were unaware of good handwashing technique and answered incorrectly regarding cough etiquette. Research participants seemed uncertain of children’s symptoms. Awareness scores of participants significantly differed across parental role, educational attainment levels, and social-economic levels (P<0.005), with fathers, the better educated, and those of higher income showing higher levels of awareness. Conclusion: Research results suggest an urgent need for parental education regarding COVID-19 in children, especially regarding handwashing techniques and cough etiquette; educational facilities and outreach to parents and schoolchildren are particularly important.