Abstract

Objective: To explore individuals’ knowledge and perception of the COVID-19 virus pandemic, views on imposed governmental restrictions and engagement rates in mandatory behavioural restrictions in a cohort of Pakistan under or post-graduate students.
Methodology: A web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted and 358 participants completed the online questionnaire.
Results: Participants had a high awareness of several potential symptoms of COVID-19 with shortness of breath (99%), a dry cough (96%), and fever (94%). A significant minority of participants stated that despite governmental restrictions, they planned to continue to engage with family members (not resident with them if asymptomatic (21.5%)).
Conclusion: Clear dissemination of information from appropriate governmental sources is advised to support on-going engagement in effective preve

Key words: COVID-19, public perception, knowledge, Pakistan.