Date Posted: June 10, 2026

Author/s: Finzy Marie L. Gonzales, MD; Naomi S. Nocheseda, MD and Maria Angela Hernando-Mallari, MD

Background: Adolescents are more likely to engage in risky health behaviors and possibly to risky practices related to COVID-19. They belong to a significant part of the population and their compliance with infection control measure is essential against the emerging COVID-19 disease.

Objective: This study aims to determine the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices of the senior high school towards COVID-19.

Methods: An online cross-sectional questionnaire using Google forms was used. Results: A total of 119 senior high school students of FEU-NRMF Senior High Program, with a mean age of 17 years old (31.1%), most were in the 11th grade (52.9%), completed the questionnaire. Majority of information regarding COVID-19 were from social media (70.6%) followed by television (21%) and only 0.8% received information regarding COVID-19 from school. Majority of students were knowledgeable about the mode of transmission, clinical manifestations, treatment and prevention and control of COVID-19. Majority of them have positive attitudes towards the protocols implemented by the Philippine government to decrease spread of the disease (88%). However, majority have a negative attitude with regards to the successful control of COVID-19. Majority of them were compliant with the minimum health protocols set by the Philippine government (98%) which was significantly projected by their good knowledge and positive attitude towards COVID-19. The study emphasizes the use of social media as a powerful tool and as essential in engaging with the adolescent age group and should be utilized for proper dissemination of information.

Conclusion: This study revealed that majority of the senior high school students have good knowledge with regards to COVID-19 that is reflected in their positive attitudes and compliance to health protocols. This study also intensified the need to incorporate teaching relevant and timely topics in school. This research can be utilized in the different senior high school programs in the Philippines prior to the start of limited face to face classes.

Keywords:
Adolescents, COVID-19, Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP), Senior High School