Background to the Study

The outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in December 2019 has had a profound impact on global health, economies, and societies. Declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020, the disease quickly spread, necessitating public health interventions to control its transmission (WHO, 2020). These interventions, including mask-wearing, social distancing, hand hygiene, and vaccination campaigns, were widely disseminated as preventive measures. The effectiveness of such measures relies heavily on public knowledge and attitudes, as they influence compliance and behavioral change (Ajzen, 1991).

In Cameroon, the government implemented various measures such as curfews, movement restrictions, and public health campaigns to curb the spread of the virus (Ministry of Public Health, 2020). Molyko, a vibrant neighborhood in Buea, is home to a significant youth population, particularly students and young professionals. This demographic often demonstrates high mobility and social interactions, factors that can influence the transmission dynamics of the virus (Ngonghala et al., 2020).

Despite widespread dissemination of COVID-19 information, misinformation and varied attitudes have posed challenges to adherence to preventive measures (Okereke et al., 2021). Understanding the knowledge and attitudes of youths in Molyko is essential for tailoring interventions to improve compliance and mitigate the pandemic’s impact.

Research Problem

The effectiveness of public health interventions in controlling the spread of COVID-19 depends significantly on the public’s understanding and willingness to adopt preventive measures. Youths, particularly those aged 18–25, are often perceived as less compliant with health guidelines due to misconceptions, skepticism, and the influence of social networks (Hagger et al., 2020). In Molyko, the concentration of youths in educational institutions and social hubs raises concerns about their role in the community’s overall response to the pandemic.

Preliminary observations suggest that while some youths are well-informed about COVID-19, others hold misconceptions or exhibit a lackadaisical attitude towards preventive measures. Factors contributing to these disparities may include the credibility of information sources, cultural beliefs, and perceived risk. A lack of adherence among this demographic could undermine community efforts to control the virus, increasing the risk of outbreaks and straining healthcare systems.

This study aims to explore the knowledge and attitudes of youths in Molyko towards COVID-19 preventive measures, identifying gaps that may hinder compliance and proposing strategies to enhance their engagement in public health initiatives.

Objectives of the Study

General Objective:
To assess the knowledge and attitudes of youths aged 18–25 years in Molyko towards COVID-19 preventive measures.

Specific Objectives:

1. To evaluate the level of knowledge among youths in Molyko regarding COVID-19 preventive measures.
2. To examine the attitudes of youths towards the adoption of these measures.
3. To identify factors influencing the knowledge and attitudes of youths regarding COVID-19 preventive measures.
4. To recommend strategies for improving compliance among youths in Molyko.

Research Questions

1. What is the level of knowledge among youths in Molyko regarding COVID-19 preventive measures?
2. What are the attitudes of youths towards the adoption of these measures?
3. What factors influence the knowledge and attitudes of youths regarding COVID-19 preventive measures?
4. What strategies can be implemented to improve compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures among youths in Molyko?