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. 2021 Feb 10;16(2):e0244050. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244050

Table 2. The proportions of correct answers about the signs, diagnostic methods, identification criteria, and prevention measures regarding COVID-19 given by health professionals.

Number Percent
K1: Signs and symptoms of COVID-19
Fever 1304 97.8
Cough 1278 95.8
Sneezing 977 73.2
Runny nose 658 49.3
Sore throat 1124 84.3
Shortness of breath 1096 82.2
Pressure/pain in the chest 486 36.4
Joint/muscle pain 583 43.7
Red eyes 237 17.8
Rash 166 12.4
Diarrhoea 493 37.0
May present without symptoms 394 29.5
K2: COVID-19 diagnostics
RT-PCR with respiratory samples 974 73.0
RT-PCR with serum samples 768 57.6
Chest X-ray 501 37.6
Serological tests 401 30.1
K3: Identification criteria for patients at risk for COVID-19
Presence of diarrhoea 435 32.6
Respiratory infection symptoms 986 73.9
Travel to COVID-affected areas 1181 88.5
Contact with possible infected patients 1014 76.0
K4: Measures for prevention of transmission from known or suspected patients
Frequent hand washing with soap and water/alcohol-based hand rub 1251 93.8
Avoiding eating uncooked food 1011 75.8
Wearing a face mask 1214 91.0
Placing known or suspected patients in adequately ventilated single rooms 1161 87.0
Wearing protective clothing 1144 85.8
Avoiding moving and transporting patients 1105 82.8
Routine cleaning and disinfecting surfaces 1075 80.6