Knowledge of the population about prevention and detection measures for COVID-19: Analysis of comments on a publication on the social network Facebook

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic drove a demand for information regarding action protocols and measures to be followed among the population. Objectives: To describe and to explore the perceptions of the population about the measures for the detection and prevention of contagion by SARS-CoV-2, based on comments made on a social network. Methods: Research with descriptive and cross-sectional qualitative design. The data collection technique were the comments arising from a publication made on Facebook on the profile of the Altamira health centre. The method of analysis of the results is framed within the phenomenological theory. Results: The post made on August 14, 2020 was shared more than 11,400 times with 437 comments. In them, four categories were detected that express the opinions of the population and that bring together other subunits of meaning: 1st opinion on protocols' changes; 2nd application of the measures in a possible case; 3rd difficulties in understanding the steps to follow; 4th difficulties related to the primary care health center. Conclusions: The importance of transferring clear and understandable information to the public about the measures to be carried out is highlighted, especially in a pandemic context.