Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Cairo University Medical Students in the Clinical Years towards Preventive Measures to COVID-19.

Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first discovered in China in December 2019, from where it has spread widely and rapidly to other parts of the world, threatening the lives of millions of people. In the absence of a definitive cure, awareness and consistent adherence to preventive measures remain crucial for averting further COVID-19 outbreaks and halting community transmission. Medical students play a crucial role in disseminating accurate information about COVID-19 and preparedness for combating future pandemics. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Cairo university medical students regarding preventive measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at the faculty of medicine, Kasralainy from December 2021 to April 2022, involving 384 consented medical students in their 5th and 6th years. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which was distributed during tutorial sessions and shared through various social media platforms. The knowledge percent score was 84.3% (79.1%- 89.5%). Social media emerged as the primary source of information. The attitude percent score was 73.3% (66.7%-80%). The practice percent score was 66.7 % (54.2%- 77.1%). Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) percent scores were influenced by sex,academic year, vaccination status and having chronic diseases. There were statistically significant weak positive correlations between knowledge and attitude percent score (r =0.13), between knowledge and practice percent scores(r =0.167), and between attitude and practice percent scores(r =0.187). Although participating students demonstrated a high level of knowledge about COVID-19 preventive measures, there was a noticeable discrepancy between knowledge and practice, especially in social distancing and mask-wearing behaviors. It is crucial to implement disaster training programs for medical students to enhance their preparedness, knowledge and skills that are essential during times of outbreaks and emergencies.