Finding the major risk factors for higher COVID-19 prevalence in various Districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
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Abstract
The emergence and rapid spread of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic around the world has focused attention on the relationship between the disease transmission and people's attitude toward understanding it. The aim of this study is to know the public opinion about COVID-19 and to find the key factors responsible for increased spread of the disease in different districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Our data revealed that COVID-19 was more prevalent in colder districts (Abbottabad & Swat) as compared to warmer districts (Peshawar, Mardan & Karak). In addition, male had a higher COVID-19 infection rate than women. Additionally, our data revealed that COVID-19 was more prevalent in less educated people, urban areas and unvaccinated people as compared to high educated, rural areas and vaccinated people, respectively. People who practiced social distancing and followed proper COVID-19 standard operating procedures had lower COVID-19 infection rate. This study concludes that COVID-19 was more communicable in urban areas, among men and colder climates than it was in rural areas, among women and warmer climates, respectively. Therefore we recommend proper vaccination as future strategic plan to prevent spread of such pandemics. This research will provide valuable insights on managing infectious disease and developing efficient preventive strategies.
Keywords: Corona virus; Covid-19; Health; Pandemic; Pakistan