How effective are health awareness campaigns in India among young citizens?

Abstract

Background: COVID-resurgence has been seen of late in 2022. A country’s success against pandemics like COVID-19 depends largely on the health behavior of public, which is a function of health education. Aims and Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of such health campaigns that raises this vital awareness among undergraduate students. Materials and Methods: A web-based questionnaire was circulated among non-medical students and student groups of colleges based in Kolkata city (India), to assess their preparedness through their awareness and preventive practice adopted against COVID-19. Results: Mass media (85.3%) and social media (83.2%) were important sources of vital information. Fever (96.0%) was the most common symptom known, 95.9% aware about human-to-human transmission. 59.4% knew face masks were protective, while 40.2% held a 6-feet social distancing was effective. 82.2% said handwashing for 20 s or more with soap and 86.2% held that hand-rubs with 70% alcohol were helpful in disease prevention. 23.9% resorted to over-the-counter medications to prevent the disease, 43.2% used the Government’s “Aarogya Setu” mobile application. Participants from urban areas, higher socio-economic class, with elderly family member and who personally knew COVID-19 patient(s), tended to have adequate knowledge about the disease. However, many were not practicing adequate preventive measures. Conclusion: Although most were aware about COVID-19, knowledge about the correct application of preventive measures was lacking. Grassroots healthcare workers may be used in the sensitization process, along with mass awareness campaigns. Using the goodwill of political and religious leaders to inculcate protective habits in the general people should also be considered.