Knowledge, attitudes and preparedness to respond to COVID-19 among the border population of northern Thailand in the early period of the pandemic: a cross-sectional study.

Srichan, Peeradone; Apidechkul, Tawatchai; Tamornpark, Ratipark; Yeemard, Fartima; Khunthason, Siriyaporn; Kitchanapaiboon, Siwarak; Wongnuch, Pilasinee; Wongphaet, Asamaphon; Upala, Panupong

Background Chiang Rai province in northern Thailand is a site of many people travelling among nearby countries and areas, including Yunnan province, China. In February 2020, there was concern about the population's vulnerability to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 15 villages less than 10 km from a border. A questionnaire was developed and tested for reliability and validity; 48 questions covered participant characteristics, plus knowledge about, attitudes to and preparedness for COVID-19. Chi-squared tests were used to detect any significant association between variables. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the possible association of various factors with participants' level of reported knowledge, attitudes and preparedness. Results A total of 520 participants were recruited of whom 320 (61.5%) were women. The age range was 18-90 years; the average age was 45.2 years. Variables with an association with good to moderate preparedness for COVID-19 prevention and control that remained after adjustment were: women were better prepared than men (adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) = 2.52; 95% CI = 1.36-4.68); those aged 18-30 years (ORadj = 4.26; 95% CI = 1.18-15.30), 31-45 years (ORadj = 4.60; 95% CI = 1.59-13.32) or 46-60 years (ORadj = 2.69; 95% CI = 1.16-6.26) were better prepared than those aged 60-90 years; and, compared with those with no formal education, those educated to primary school level (ORadj = 2.43; 95% CI = 1.09-5.43) or to university level (ORadj = 3.18; 95% CI = 1.06-9.51) were better prepared. Conclusion Effective communication of essential, accurate and up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 prevention and control is essential in this population - especially for men, older age groups and those lacking formal education.