Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAPS) of the Inhabitants of Punjab, Pakistan toward XDR Typhoid Outbreak During COVID-19

Abstract

Background Typhoid fever, caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, is the most prevalent in areas that have poor hygienic conditions. The most alarming situation is the development of the resistant strains of Salmonella typhi, first reported in 2016 in Hyderabad, Sindh. Later, there was a widespread outbreak of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) typhoid. This survey aims to investigate the risk factors for the spread of XDR typhoid in Pakistan based on the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAPs) of the affected or at-risk population to help plan preventive actions. Method For this purpose, a community-based random KAP study was conducted in Punjab, Pakistan. Data was collected online and also by face-to-face interaction from those who had no access to the Internet. Result More than half of the respondents were aware of the fact that bacteria is the causative agent (60.6%) of XDR. Similarly, with regard to practice, it was found that 67.7% of them washed their hands before eating and 88.8% washed their hands after using the toilet. A common practice in the form of using filtered water for drinking purposes was adhered to by 73.8% of respondents. Conclusion The study concluded that preventative and control measures are necessary to avoid XDR typhoid pandemic spread.