Need to investigate COVID-19 beliefs for tailor-made sensitisation campaigns

ObjectivesThe main objective of this study was to investigate the COVID-19 beliefs of a random sample of Mauritian social media users.Study designCross-sectional study.MethodsThis quantitative research was undertaken by means of an online survey instrument, with questions on participants’ behaviour towards COVID-19 and their belief with respect to susceptibility, barriers, benefits, cues to actions and self-efficacy.ResultsIn total, 405 participants completed the survey. Participants had a low mean COVID-19 perceived susceptibility and perceived severity. Significant differences in susceptibility were observed among different age groups, places of residence and educational levels. A significant difference in self-efficacy was found between people living in urban and rural areas. Participants aged <39 years showed a significantly lower perceived benefit of staying at home to avoid COVID-19 infection compared with those aged 39–54 years. Multiple linear regression modelling revealed that participants aged 39–65 years and those who were single were the most concerned about the risk of COVID-19 infection.ConclusionsThe findings of this study provide the basis for evidence-based health education programmes that are tailor-made for specific targeted audience. Sensitisation campaigns on the benefits of staying home should be aimed at younger social media users (aged <39 years). Community health centres in rural areas need to be involved in providing educational videos to empowering people towards self-efficacy.