HOW DOES PEOPLE’S KNOWLEDGE IMPACT ON SPREAD OF VIRUSES WITHOUT PANDEMIC AND HOW TO SLOW SPREADING?

Abstract. This study examines the impact of information quantity on hygiene and sanitation quality to prevent infections, the current preparedness level for new viruses, and measures to prevent infections.

Аннотация. Бұл зерттеу ақпарат көлемінің инфекциялардың таралуын болдырмау үшін гигиена мен санитария сапасына әсерін, жаңа вирустардың пайда болуына қарсы тұруға дайындықтың ағымдағы деңгейінің сапасын, сондай-ақ дәл осы инфекциялардың алдын алу шараларын зерттейді.

Аннотация. В данном исследовании рассматривается влияние количества информации на качество гигиены и санитарии для предотвращения распространения инфекций, качество нынешнего уровня готовности к противостоянию появления новых вирусов, а также меры по профилактике этих самых инфекций.

Acknowledgement

We thank three NIS Aktobe teachers and two medical university students for their invaluable interviews and guidance. Also, we appreciate the NIS Aktobe students who participated in our survey, providing essential data for analysis.

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed global unpreparedness for such outbreaks, leading to widespread lockdowns. The SARS-CoV-2 virus spreads rapidly via respiratory droplets, making early identification and intervention difficult. This study explores the role of information in enhancing hygiene and sanitation to prevent future viral outbreaks. The WHO has established guidelines to improve hygiene and reduce infection risks, including following local guidelines, practicing social distancing, and wearing masks. These measures are crucial in reducing viral spread, especially given the persistent threat of various viruses.

The research aims to understand how information availability affects hygiene practices and virus spread, motivated by personal experiences and widespread social media content on COVID-19 victims.

Aims

The research aims to explore the relationship between access to information and virus spread. Key questions include:

• Do information sources provide enough data to prevent virus spread?
• How did information during the COVID-19 pandemic affect people's behavior and hygiene?
• Can current hygiene practices effectively face new viruses?

Literature Review

Role of Public Knowledge: Access to information significantly impacts virus spread. People informed about preventive measures are less likely to contract and spread infections. Gunyayev & Aldoshin (2020) highlight the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles to reduce infection risks.

Methodologies for Reducing Spread: Community education and instructions are vital in reducing infection rates. Jones & Brosseau note that educating the public about transmission methods can significantly lower infection rates.

MethodsA mixed-method approach, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, was used. Interviews provided detailed insights, while surveys offered broader data from 100 NIS students. Teachers and medical students were interviewed due to their relevant expertise.

Materials Surveys were conducted via Microsoft Forms, with questions on hygiene practices and virus prevention. Interviews focused on personal behaviors, opinions, and advice on virus spread prevention.

Procedure Surveys were distributed through corporate email, and interviews were recorded for detailed analysis.

Results Factors Affecting Virus Spread: Survey data revealed that only half of the participants regularly perform wet cleaning, creating conditions conducive to virus spread.

Protective Measures: Effective methods include keeping cool temperatures, regular ventilation, wearing masks, and using hand sanitizers. However, only half of the participants use these measures properly.

Conclusion

The study found that access to information plays a critical role in preventing virus spread. The pandemic has heightened awareness and improved hygiene practices. Most participants now perform basic sanitary actions, reducing infection risks.

Evaluation and Further Research

Initial assumptions about public knowledge were proven wrong, as most people are now better informed and prepared against infections. Future research should include healthcare professionals and larger sample sizes to enhance data quality.