Survey of Pharmacists’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) concerning COVID-19 Infection Control after Being Involved in Vaccine Preparation: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Vaccination is crucial for preventing the spread of COVID-19. Vaccination for COVID-19 was implemented in Japan in community units, and community pharmacists were engaged in vaccine preparation. Capturing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of pharmacists regarding COVID-19 infection control is important for developing future community health action strategies and plans. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 141 pharmacists who were members of a pharmacist association in the Shinagawa Ward of Tokyo (1–31 July 2021) using a Google online questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographic information and KAP questions regarding COVID-19. A correlation test was used for analyzing KAP scores. Significant correlations were found among all KAP scores. Stepwise logistic regression analysis showed “age” as a significant knowledge factor and “marriage”, “pharmacist careers”, “information source: official government website”, and “information source: word of mouth from family and friends” as significant attitude factors. Good KAP scores were recorded in this study, indicating increased comprehension of infection control measures and increased knowledge scores, as pharmacy pharmacists were practically involved in COVID-19 infection control measures through vaccine preparation. Policymakers should understand the value of pharmacists as healthcare professionals and should enhance public health through the effective use of pharmacists.

Cross Infection Control Awareness During 5th Wave of Covid 19 Pandemic, Omicron Variant Amongst the Dental Health Care Professionals of Government Sector University in Karachi, Pakistan

“…Thus, both patients and DHCPs remain at a bilateral risk of getting exposed to Covid 19 that could be transmitted through the oral cavity and respiratory tract during dental visits [11] . The Omicron variant of Covid 19 still exists worldwide including in Pakistan and the possibility of complete eradication of the virus is questionable 12 . To make the situation further concerning in Pakistan specifically, there has been major reluctance towards receiving the vaccine for Covid-19.…”