Experiences, beliefs and misinformation about COVID-19 of population of Ilo, Peru, 2021

Pilco-Ferreto N.; Vela-Quico A.; Ponce-Cusi R. · Revista de Salud Publica (2026) · DOI: 10.15446/rsap.v28n1.107560

Resumen

Objective To explore the experiences, beliefs, health knowledge, and exposure to misinformation about COVID-19 in a young adult population in the city of Ilo, Peru, during the end of the second wave of the pandemic. Materials and Methods A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews with 57 adult participants residing in Ilo between November and December 2021. The sampling was non-probabilistic for convenience, and the sample size was defined by theoretical saturation. The interviews were guided by thematic areas related to the origin of the disease, transmission, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, risk factors, and sources of information. A rapid qualitative analysis was applied based on expanded notes with textual citations, using thematic analysis and triangulation among researchers. Results Six analytical categories were identified: origin of COVID-19, transmission mechanisms, clinical manifestations, perception and use of diagnosis, treatment practices, and perceived risk factors. The discourses revealed conspiracy theories, fragmented knowledge about transmission, such as asymptomatic contagion, distrust of rapid diagnostic tests, and widespread use of self-medication and traditional medicine. Risk was interpreted mainly from an individual perspective, linked to “defenses,” diet, and emotional state. Conclusions Experiences and beliefs about COVID-19 were influenced by misinformation, institutional mistrust, and partial knowledge, which led to insufficient preventive behaviors. The findings highlight the need for culturally relevant risk communication strategies and for strengthening health literacy in local contexts.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa; Universidad Nacional de Moquegua