Objective: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a significant global health crisis affecting countries worldwide, including Indonesia. Enhancing the information, attitudes, and practices about COVID-19 prevention among the general community is crucial for preventing the spread of the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 and associated factors among the general public in Central Java, Indonesia.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in two districts in Central Java Province from August to September 2020. The research questionnaire inquiries concerned the demographic data, knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with COVID-19. Descriptive analysis was performed to evaluate demographic data. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the factors associated with KAP.
Results: A total of 425 participants completed the survey questionnaire. Television and radio are the primary sources of information the public utilizes to acquire information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants showed a prevalence of 36% for good knowledge, 69% for a positive attitude, and 40.5% for adequate practice. Factors significantly associated with knowledge were gender [p = 0.038], level of education (primary school or below [p = 0.005], junior high school [p =<0.001, high school [p = 0.005]), and government employee [0.001]). Pensioners [p = 0.040], government employees [p = 0.000], and a good level of knowledge [p = 0.000] were significant factors influencing positive attitudes. Meanwhile, good knowledge [p =0.001], positive attitude [p=0.000], and being a housewife [p=0.035] were crucial determinants of practice.
Conclusion: This study found that the population's knowledge and practice level are sufficient, but they have a positive attitude. To address this, targeted health education and interventions from healthcare professionals are necessary to improve their understanding.