Assessment of Awareness of Infection Prevention Against Covid19 Among Staffs of Two Selected Public Hospitals In Somali Region Eastern Ethiopia.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has placed healthcare workers (HCWs) and administrative staff at increased risk of infection, making awareness of infection prevention and control (IPC) measures essential. Assessing awareness levels among healthcare personnel is critical for strengthening preparedness and response in healthcare settings. Objective: To assess the level of awareness and associated factors of COVID-19 infection prevention among healthcare workers and administrative staff in selected public hospitals of the Somali Region, Eastern Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 healthcare workers and administrative staff from Dhagahbur and Kebridahar General Hospitals. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were computed, and awareness levels were summarized using median scores. The Modified Bloom’s cut-off point was applied to categorize awareness levels. Results: Of the 200 participants, 120 (60.0%) were male and 80 (40.0%) were female. The overall awareness of COVID-19 infection prevention was moderate, with an overall median correct response rate of 60%. Higher awareness was observed among clinical nurse level IV staff (66.1%) and medical doctors (64.0%), while non-clinical/administrative staff (49.3%) demonstrated the lowest awareness. Female participants showed slightly higher median awareness than males. Although most respondents correctly identified hand hygiene moments and appropriate PPE use, notable gaps were observed in identifying the causative agent, defining close contact, appropriate isolation procedures, and preferred hand hygiene methods for visibly soiled hands. Conclusion: Healthcare workers and administrative staff demonstrated a moderate level of awareness regarding COVID-19 infection prevention. Targeted and continuous IPC training particularly for non-clinical staff is recommended to address identified gaps and strengthen infection prevention practices.