Northern Technical University Students’ Awareness of Infectious Diseases and Preventive Measures: A Cross-sectional Demographic Study

Abstract

The research involved a sample of 200 students from Northern Technical University Mosul, Iraq, categorized into four specializations: health, technology, administration, and engineering. The current study attempted to assess student awareness regarding infectious diseases and their transmission methods, evaluate the effectiveness of university procedures and activities in enhancing their awareness, and analyze the differences across various specializations. The findings indicated that the average knowledge of infectious diseases among the sample was 59.0% (118). Students believed that the primary modes of transmission for infectious diseases are airborne particles and coughing. 54.5% (109) of the sample were included. Hemorrhagic fever accounted for 77.5% (155) of the sample results for the most prevalent diseases transmitted by meat. 84.5% (169) of the sample participated in seminars or training programs, while the remainder did not engage in any participation. The primary factor contributing to the spread of infectious diseases at universities was classroom overcrowding, as indicated by 84.5% (169) of the sample results. This study revealed that health majors exhibit greater awareness compared to other disciplines. In conclusion, the university should implement several substantial modifications to its health awareness program to enhance awareness levels. Moreover, the academic environment and health infrastructure significantly enhance student health awareness, imposing substantial responsibilities on NTU.