Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Conjunctivitis Among Students in Punjab, Pakistan: Insights from the 2023 Outbreak

Abstract

Background: Conjunctivitis is an important public health concern in Pakistan. The diagnosis and management of conjunctivitis are often challenging, as the clinical presentation of different types of conjunctivitis can overlap, and the etiological agent is not always identified.

Objective: To examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of students in Punjab, Pakistan, regarding conjunctivitis during the 2023 outbreak.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to 1000 students from randomly selected schools, colleges, and universities in Punjab, Pakistan. The questionnaire included questions about demographic characteristics, conjunctivitis history, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to conjunctivitis prevention and management, and sources of information and health-seeking behaviour. Only 399 students out of 1000 responded and were part of this study.

Results: The majority of the participants had basic knowledge about the causes, transmission, and prevention of conjunctivitis. Total 71.68% had heard of conjunctivitis, 78.70% knew it spreads from person to person, 75.94% recognized the importance of hand and eye hygiene, and 66.67% identified symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis correctly. Regarding their attitudes and practices related to conjunctivitis, 43.36% preferred allopathy, while 27.07% used alternative medicine; 52.38% consulted a physician within 2–3 days of symptoms; 51.13% used or would use local remedies; and 84.71% said they would take precautions to limit the spread of conjunctivitis. Moreover, female participants had a significantly higher level of knowledge about conjunctivitis being contagious and the importance of hygiene. Males were more likely to use allopathy and local remedies. Conclusion: This article concludes that there is a need to improve the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the target population regarding conjunctivitis prevention and management and to increase the access and utilization of health care services. Health education campaigns, school-based interventions, and community-based initiatives are recommended to address this public health issue.