Seroprevalence, knowledge, attitudes and practices of people to COVID-19 in Chililabombwe and Lusaka districts of Zambia.
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Date
2025
Authors
Sampa, Mercy
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound effect on global health, economies, and societies. Understanding the seroprevalence, as well as the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of individuals toward COVID-19, is essential for effective public health interventions. This study
aimed to assess the seroprevalence of COVID-19 antibodies and the KAP of residents in Chililabombwe and Lusaka districts, Zambia. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of 179 participants from two Zambian districts. COVID-19-specific antibodies were detected using serological tests to determine seroprevalence, while a structured questionnaire evaluated participants' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding COVID-19. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze associations between categorical variables, and binary logistic regression was employed to identify potential risk factors for SARSCoV-2 seropositivity. The overall seroprevalence of COVID-19 antibodies was 9.5% (95% CI: 6.0-14.7), reflecting notable exposure within the districts. Seroprevalence was higher in Chililabombwe (11.0%; 95% CI: 6.1-19.1) compared to Lusaka (8.0%; 95% CI: 3.9-15.5). The study found variations in seroprevalence based on age, gender, and education level, with higher
rates among individuals aged 40-49 (13.6%; 95% CI: 4.7-33.3), females (12.6%; 95% CI: 7.4- 20.8), and those with no education (22.2%; 95% CI: 6.3-54.7). However, these differences were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Both seropositive and seronegative participants exhibited moderate knowledge and attitudes, alongside high levels of preventive practices, indicating a shared understanding of health risks. Lower knowledge, attitudes, and practices were strongly associated with higher seropositivity. Confidence in preventing future pandemics was expressed by both groups, with only marginal differences between them. This study highlights important insights into the seroprevalence and KAP regarding COVID-19 in selected Zambian districts. The findings emphasize the need for targeted public health initiatives to close knowledge gaps like comparisons of KAP and seroprevalence between regions and information sources and their influence on attitudes towards COVID-19, dissemination of accurate information, and promotion effective preventive behaviours. These efforts could help limit the spread of COVID-19 and strengthen community resilience in response to the pandemic.
Description
Thesis of Master of Science in One Health Analytical Epidemiology.