Abstract
Background and aims: The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic has far been the biggest global
health threat of the 21st century. Protective measures are still one of the most effective methods for
controlling COVID-19. Practicing hygiene and control measures are largely influenced by knowledge
and attitude towards COVID-19. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice
of Iranians towards COVID-19 as well as the demographic factors related to it in April and May, 2020.
Methods: The study population in this cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical, and web-based
study included 3736 Iranian individuals who were collected via convenience sampling method. A
validated Iranian knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) Questionnaire about COVID-19 was used
for collecting the required data. Ordinal multivariate generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were
applied to analyze data.
Results: The majority of participants (88.1%) had considerable knowledge, the right attitude (91%),
and good practices (90.3%). In the multivariate models, factors related to greater knowledge were
age>20 years (P<0.001), living in the urban area (P=0.030), holding a master’s or doctoral degree
(P=0.044), and a moderate financial status (P=0.001). Females displayed mor positive attitude
(P=0.035). Variables related to more favorable practices were age>20 years (P<0.001), and having a
good (P=0.003) or moderate (P=0.038) financial status.
Conclusion: It was concluded that the participants had good knowledge and a positive attitude, as
well as adopted sound practices regarding COVID-19. However, this conclusion might not have been
generalizable to entire Iranian community; therefore, it was recommended that preventive measures
against COVID-19 should receive continued monitoring and emphasis.
Keywords: Attitudes, COVID-19, Knowledge, Practice
