Adherence to COVID-19 Prevention Measures in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Results of Two Consecutive Online Surveys

Ditekemena, John D.; Mavoko, Hypolite M.; Obimpeh, Michael; Van Hees, Stijn; Siewe Fodjo, Joseph Nelson; Nkamba, Dalau M.; Tshefu, Antoinette; Van Damme, Wim; Muyembe, Jean Jacques; Colebunders, Robert

Adherence to preventive measures is essential to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Two online surveys were conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from 23 April to 8 June 2020, and from August 24th to September 8th, respectively. A total of 3268 (round 1) and 4160 (round 2) participants were included. In both surveys, there was a moderate level of adherence to regular handwashing (85% and 77%, respectively), wearing of facemasks (41.4% and 69%, respectively), and respecting physical distancing (58% and 43.4%, respectively). The second survey found that, working in private (OR = 2.31, CI: 1.66–3.22; p < 0.001) and public organizations (OR = 1.61, CI: 1.04–2.49; p = 0.032) and being a healthcare worker (OR = 2.19, CI: 1.57–3.05; p < 0.001) significantly increased the odds for better adherence. However, a unit increase in age (OR = 0.99, CI: 0.98–0.99; p < 0.026), having attained lower education levels (OR = 0.60, CI: 0.46–0.78; p < 0.001), living in a room (OR = 0.36, CI: 0.15–0.89; p = 0.027), living in a studio (OR = 0.26, CI: 0.11–0.61; p = 0.002) and apartment (OR = 0.29, CI: 0.10–0.82; p = 0.019) significantly decreased the odds for better adherence. We recommend a multi-sectorial approach to monitor and respond to the pandemic threat. While physical distancing may be difficult in Africa, it should be possible to increase the use of facemasks.