On Thursday, June 17, 2021, the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS), launched its recent research titled “Knowledge, Attitude, Practice and Impact of COVID-19 in Afghanistan”. The aim of this nationwide survey was to determine the level of knowledge, awareness, practice, attitudes, and behavioral practices of the population in Afghanistan about COVID-19 and also the impact of the disease on the health and socio-economic dimensions of their lives. Distinguished academics, public health experts, and media representatives attended the event.

Dr. Narges Neyazi, one of the writers of this survey, presented the key findings of this research. “The purpose of this survey is to determine the level of knowledge, awareness, perceptions, attitudes, and practices of people towards COVID19 in Afghanistan, as well as evaluating the impact of the pandemic on healthcare and socio-economic aspects of their lives,” said Dr. Neyazi. According to Dr. Neyazi, this survey can help the Ministry of Public Health policymakers plan and implement their activities by taking into consideration the information gaps reported in this national survey.

“By conducting National COVID19 Survey, the Afghanistan Institute for Strategic Studies has provided significant assistance for the government policymakers and other relevant institutions, and these institutions can benefit the findings of this survey to better implement policies and plans in relation to fighting COVID19,” said Dr. Shafiq Mirzazada, the deputy minister for the Ministry of Public Health. According to Dr. Mirzazada, this survey will help the Ministry of Public Health and other health institutions determine which areas need more work.

“Such surveys and researches are important for policymaking bodies such as the Ministry of Public Health and have a positive impact on their performance and services,” said Dr. Mohammad Dauod Altaf, an emergency expert at the World Health Organization. Dr. Altaf believes that such surveys can reduce the risks of COVID19 in the country and help us make more effective measures. “World Health Organization in Afghanistan is cooperating in building the capacity of health institutions and providing equipment,” said Dr. Altaf.

You can find the full research paper below:
https://aiss.af/assets/aiss_publication/Knowledge,_Attitude,_Practice_and_Impact_of_COVID-19_in_Afghanistan-English.pdf