AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

KNOWLEDGE LEVEL AND ATTITUDE OF ARTISANAL FISHERMEN TOWARDS COVID-19 PREVENTION IN FISHING COMMUNITIES IN EKET AGRICULTURAL ZONE, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Author:  Nkeme K. K., and Ebuk, J. J.

Abstract
The study assessed artisanal fishermen level of knowledge and attitude towards Covid-19 prevention in Eket Agricultural Zone of Akwa Ibom State. Data were obtained from 120 fishermen using multi-stage sampling procedure and analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Results showed that majority (95.8%) of artisanal fishermen were aware that COVID-19 can be prevented. On the mode of prevention 91.7% of the respondents had high knowledge on avoiding contact by wearing facemask. Results revealed that artisanal fishermen had positive attitude (83.8%) in terms of isolating themselves from infected persons, while poor attitude of fishermen were revealed towards taking Covid-19 vaccine (75%). Findings further showed that gender (p > 0.01), education (p > 0.01), extension contact (p > 0.01) and cooperative membership (p > 0.05) were positive and significantly influence fishermen level of knowledge. The major determinants of fishermen attitude were age (p > 0.1), education (p > 0.01), and accessed to extension contact (p > 0.01). The study recommended that educational interventions should be reinforced to enhance fishermen’s willingness to take preventive actions in the future. Sanitary and health inspectors should engage the community in general sanitation campaigns. Government at all levels through the Ministry of Health should embark on continued awareness campaigns among the fishing communities to improve their knowledge of preventive measures towards Covid-19.