COVID -19 PREVENTION GUIDELINES AND ASSESSMENT OF ITS APPLICATION AND ADHERENCE AMONG PEOPLE OF USHONGO LGA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

The deadly episode created by COVID-19 posed scary health challenges that the globe is actually facing. Aside from the individual health challenge, this virus also creates considerable economical, organization and industrial effects being felt around the globe. So far, the disease has no acceptable medication, but there are scientific preventive measures outline by WHO and NCDC to prevent this disease that is spreading like an inferno. However, it was observed that more emphasis has been placed on creating awareness caution the effect of the disease less attention on the proper application and adherence to the preventive guidelines. Considerably, this study set to assess the application and level of adherence to these guidelines among the people of Ushongo LGA of Benue State, Nigeria for improves action. Base on this, the study, therefore, adopts a survey method using a structured questionnaire to elicit information from 165 respondents who accepted to participate in the study. The fishbowl method was used to select three districts in the local government. Key informants were also interviewed. The data was collected and analysed using a frequency distribution table followed by the interpretation. The study found among others that people of the area heard about COVID-19 but thought it is a disease of the rich and political propaganda aimed to root government treasury. It was also found that people are not applying these guidelines, the few that were applying failed to properly apply them. The social distance of 3 feet, use of face mask, regular washing of hands with running water among others were not properly practised and adhered to. Base on the findings, it was recommended among others that more awareness should be carried out to educate this rural populace of the application and adherence to these preventive measures.