Maintain Physical Distance

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 114 views

Introduction

In January 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Covid-19 as an outbreak included in the category of Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Covid-19 is a respiratory disease caused by a new Corona virus, which was first discovered in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019. This study aims to evaluate students' knowledge about COVID-19, especially related to prevention in children.

The Importance of Knowledge on Covid-19 Prevention in Children

Good knowledge about this disease is very important, especially for prospective doctors who will play a role in public health education and handling cases in the future. Children as vulnerable groups require special attention to prevent virus transmission. Good knowledge of how to prevent, such as the use of masks, proper hand washing, and maintain physical distance, becomes the main tool in reducing the risk of transmission.

Research Methods

This study uses a non-experimental descriptive observational design with a cross-sectional approach. Data was collected through a questionnaire that had been arranged previously. The research sample consisted of 88 USU FK students randomly selected using the Simple Random Sampling method. This method ensures that each student has the same opportunity to become a respondent, so that the results can be generalized.

Research Results

The results showed that respondents' knowledge about the prevention of Covid-19 in children was in a good category, with a percentage of 100%. This means that all students involved in this study have an adequate understanding of preventive measures that can be applied to protect children from the virus.

Preventive Measures Against Covid-19 in Children

The results of this study show that the students have a good understanding of the following preventive measures:

Use of Masks: All students know that wearing a mask is an effective way to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
Proper Hand Washing: Students understand the importance of washing hands regularly with soap and water to prevent the spread of the virus.
Maintain Physical Distance: Students know that maintaining a physical distance of at least 1 meter from others is an effective way to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Challenges in Applying Knowledge in Real Practice

Although the students have a good understanding of the preventive measures, there are still challenges in applying this knowledge in real practice. The challenge in the future is to apply this knowledge in real practice and educate the wider community, especially parents, about the importance of COVID-19 prevention in children.

Conclusion

The description of the knowledge of students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra about the prevention of COVID-19 in children is very good. These results show the importance of appropriate education in the medical curriculum, which can prepare a generation of future doctors to be more responsive to the challenges of public health, especially in the Pandemic era as it is today. Student involvement in spreading information and education about COVID-19 to the community, especially to parents and child caregivers, will be very helpful in creating a safer environment for children.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations can be made:

Continuing Education: The students should continue to receive education and training on the latest issues in public health, especially on COVID-19 prevention.
Community Education: The students should be involved in spreading information and education about COVID-19 to the community, especially to parents and child caregivers.
Real-World Application: The students should be given the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world practice, such as in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.

Q: What is Covid-19 and how does it affect children?

A: Covid-19 is a respiratory disease caused by a new Corona virus. It can affect children of all ages, but children with underlying health conditions are more susceptible to severe illness.

Q: What are the symptoms of Covid-19 in children?

A: The symptoms of Covid-19 in children can range from mild to severe and include:

Fever
Cough
Runny nose
Sore throat
Headache
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Vomiting

Q: How can I prevent my child from getting Covid-19?

A: To prevent your child from getting Covid-19, follow these steps:

Wash your hands regularly: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
Use a mask: Wear a mask when you are in public places or when you are around people who are sick.
Maintain physical distance: Keep a distance of at least 1 meter from others to prevent the spread of the virus.
Avoid close contact: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when sick: Stay home from work or school when you are sick to prevent the spread of the virus.

Q: What should I do if my child gets Covid-19?

A: If your child gets Covid-19, follow these steps:

Seek medical attention: Seek medical attention if your child has a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
Follow treatment guidelines: Follow the treatment guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
Keep your child isolated: Keep your child isolated from others to prevent the spread of the virus.
Monitor your child's symptoms: Monitor your child's symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen.

Q: Can Covid-19 be prevented in children?

A: Yes, Covid-19 can be prevented in children by following the preventive measures mentioned above.

Q: What is the role of healthcare providers in preventing Covid-19 in children?

A: Healthcare providers play a crucial role in preventing Covid-19 in children by:

Providing education and awareness: Providing education and awareness to parents and caregivers about Covid-19 prevention.
Providing treatment: Providing treatment to children who have Covid-19.
Monitoring symptoms: Monitoring symptoms of children who have Covid-19.
Providing guidance: Providing guidance to parents and caregivers on how to care for children who have Covid-19.

Q: What is the role of parents and caregivers in preventing Covid-19 in children?

A: Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in preventing Covid-19 in children by:

Following preventive measures: Following preventive measures such as washing hands regularly, using a mask, and maintaining physical distance.
Seeking medical attention: Seeking medical attention if their child has symptoms of Covid-19.
Providing education and awareness: Providing education and awareness to other parents and caregivers about Covid-19 prevention.
Supporting healthcare providers: Supporting healthcare providers in their efforts to prevent Covid-19 in children.

By following these FAQs, parents and caregivers can take steps to prevent Covid-19 in children and keep them safe and healthy.