IMPROVED COVID-19 KNOWLEDGE AND CONSCIOUSNESS AMONG RESIDENTS OF ABAKALIKI: UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF MEDIA CAMPAIGNS

Abstract: The Coronavirus is a large family of viruses known to cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to acute respiratory tract infection. The severity of the infection may be visible as pneumonia, acute respiratory syndrome, and even death. The mortality rate is not only high, but threatens our existence as a people. One of the tasks of the mass media is the promotion of knowledge on health issues; inform and educate members of the society. So far, media campaigns have been deployed across board to manage the spread of this deadly virus. It was against this backdrop that this study was initiated to appraise the influence of these campaigns against COVID-19 virus. Explanatory mixed method research design was adopted, so as to empirically confirm, cross-validate, or corroborate findings of the research. A representative sample size of 385 was studied. Results indicate that most Nigerians, particularly in the
Abakaliki, now have a detailed knowledge of the COVID-19 virus, its transmission and prevention methods as well as the medical anthropology. And there’s a correlation between their level of exposure to COVID-19 campaigns and knowledge. It is therefore imperative to note that media campaigns can effectively help in managing the spread of diseases. We recommend among others, that there should be sustained media campaigns against COVID-19 so that people can continue to maintain their adopted simple personal hygiene practices.