Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on COVID-19 in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq: An Online Cross-Sectional Survey

Background: First COVID-19 case was recorded on February 26th, 2020 in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Shortly after the number of cases increased significantly. Limited research has been conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the population in the region about the pandemic. Objectives: The objective of this study was to gain a better understanding of the people’s awareness and their attitude towards the pandemic by conducting a knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) survey. Materials and Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional online survey, and non-probability, convenient sampling of 325 adults, was conducted during a complete lockdown period from 5th to 20th of April, 2020 in KRI. Results: High levels of knowledge and practice, with divided positive and negative attitudes, were found among participants. The study found a positive relationship between knowledge and attitudes and the resulting practice. Conclusions: Studies about the COVID-19 pandemic are very scarce in the KRI. There were no significance differences between the socio-demographic characteristics and levels of knowledge, attitudes and practices. We encourage further KAP studies in the KRI regarding COVID-19 for setting health awareness campaigns in promoting practical information on preventive measures to stop the spread of the virus accordingly.