Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards COVID-19 in Paraguayans during outbreaks: a quick online survey

Background: Until March 22, 2020, 22 cases are registered in Paraguay, of which there are two cases with epidemiological links to be determined. The country's authorities have applied necessary sanitary measures to prevent massive spread. It is imperative to know the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the population about COVID-19, for decision making. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from March 20, 2020, the week immediately after the closure of Paraguay. The survey was online using a Google Forms (c) form distributed through "WhatsApp" groups. Paraguayan nationals, over 18 years of age, who were explained the objectives and purpose of the study, who agreed to participate in the study, were asked to complete the questionnaire by clicking on the link. Results: A total of 3141 participants completed the survey questionnaire. The mean age was 29.55 years (SD: 10.7), 2139 (68.10%) were women, and 2073 (66) were Interior. The mean COVID-19 knowledge score was 7.45 (SD: 1.51), suggesting an overall 62% (7.45/12*100) correct rate on this knowledge test. The majority of the respondents agreed that COVID-19 will finally be successfully controlled (66.28%), the vast majority of the participants had not visited any crowded place (88.35%) and wore masks when going out (74.31%) in recent days Conclusion: The knowledge about COVID-19 in the Paraguayan population during the outbreak was acceptable, attitudes have been mostly favorable and the practices are mostly adequate, however, it is necessary to implement massive education campaigns, to increase the proportion of knowledge about COVID-19, to stop its spread.