Level of understanding among Brazilians about biosafety measures to combat COVID-19

• Main Author: Pessoa, Isabela Maria Braga Slcauser
• Publication Date: 2021
• Other Authors: Silva, Dayane Jhenifer Ribeiro, Campos, Kerolynne Soares, Ferreira, Grasiele Cristine
• Format: Article
• Language: por
• Source: Revista Baiana de Saúde Pública (Online)
• Download full: https://rbsp.sesab.ba.gov.br/index.php/rbsp/article/view/3307
• topic: Covid-19; Prevenção; Biossegurança; Equipamento de proteção individual; Conhecimento; Covid-19; Prevención; Bioseguridad; Equipo de protección personal; Conocimiento; COVID-19; Prevention; Biosafety; Individual Protection Equipment; Knowledge

Abstract Correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential considering the global context of the COVID-19 pandemic, a respiratory tract disease transmitted through droplets and/or aerosols, which can be deposited on objects and surfaces during speaking, coughing or sneezing. As a means to control dissemination, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended several biosafety measures to avoid contagion, such as social distancing and mask use. This is an observational, cross-sectional study conducted with literate Brazilians who answered the electronic questionnaire prepared by the authors. Forms were sent to participants from June to September 2020 via digital platforms. After tabulation, data underwent descriptive analysis using relative and absolute frequencies. A total of 214 Brazilians participated in the study, of which 76% were female and 34% male, aged 18 to 59 years old. Most participants understood how COVID-19 is disseminated and employed preventive measures such as using masks in public places. Nonetheless, after the pandemic, about half of the sample claimed they will forgone wearing a tissue mask when in public if they have a respiratory infection. Washing hands with soap and water and using hand sanitizer were the mains lessons learned. Finally, studies show that disease spread decreases when all biosafety strategies are used together