Factors associated with COVID-19: a comparative case-control study in Benin

• Published in: One Health & Risk Management Vol. 3; no. 4; pp. 26 - 40
• Main Authors: KÊDOTÉ, Nonvigon Marius, WACHINOU, Ablo, DARBOUX, Aymeric, PADONOU, Géraud, FONTON, Pérince, LENDZELE, Sevidzem, SARR, Fatou, MAVOUNGOU, Jacques François
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Asociatia de Biosiguranta si Biosecuritate 01.10.2022
• Subjects: benin; case-control; covid-19; risk factors
• ISSN: 2587-3458; 2587-3466
• DOI: 10.38045/ohrm.2022.4.03

Introduction: Although there are several previous publications related to risk factors of COVID-19 infection, in Benin there are very few data to explain the outbreak risk factors. Material and methods: This case-control study, conducted from 14 September to 20 October 2020, aimed to identify the risk factors associated with COVID-19 infection in Benin. Questions on knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to COVID-19, sociodemographic characteristics, nutritional factors, medical history, housing and working conditions of respondents were asked through a questionnaire survey. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the factors associated with COVID-19. The statistical significance was set at 5%. Results: In multivariate logistic regression, no handwashing device installed at the home entrance (ORa = 1.86; 95% CI [1.07-3.21]) or a device delivering only water (ORa = 5.57; 95% CI [1.98-15.65]), using permanently air conditioning at workplaces (ORa = 5.48; 95% CI [2.40-12.57]), less knowledge of protective measures (ORa = 1.41; 95% CI [1.08-1.84]) and no knowledge on the coronavirus incubation period (ORa = 4.19; 95% CI [2.37-7.44]) were identified as risk factors for COVID-19 infection. Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, a contextual response should prioritize strategies that will raise awareness and population’s knowledge of COVID-19 as well as preventive practices.