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Huo R, Martimianakis MA. Protection, freedom, stigma: a critical discourse analysis of face masks in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and implications for medical education. Can Med Educ J 2023; 14:5-19. [PMID: 38226311 PMCID: PMC10787858 DOI: 10.36834/cmej.73155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has spotlighted the face mask as an intricate object constructed through the uptake of varied and sometimes competing discourses. We investigated how the concept of face mask was discursively deployed during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. By examining the different discourses surrounding the use of face masks in public domain texts, we comment on important educational opportunities for medical education. Method We applied critical discourse methodology to look for key phrases related to face masks that can be linked to specific socio-economic and educational practices. We created an archive of 171 English and Mandarin texts spanning the period of February to July 2020 to explore how discourses in Canada related to discourses of mask use in China, where the pandemic was first observed. We analyzed how the uptake of discourses related to masks was rationalized during the first phase of the pandemic and identified practices/processes that were made possible. Results While the face mask was initially constructed as personal protective equipment, it quickly became a discursive object for rights and freedoms, an icon for personal expression of political views and social identities, and a symbol of stigma that reinforced illness, deviance, anonymity, or fear. Conclusion Discourses related to face masks have been observed in public and institutional responses to the pandemic in the first wave. Finding from this research reinforce the need for medical schools to incorporate a broader socio-political appreciation of the role of masks in healthcare when training for pandemic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Huo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Maria Athina Martimianakis
- Department of Paediatrics, Wilson Centre for Research in Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Kanojia P, Chaudhury B, Kelkar P, Javadekar A, Chaudhury S, Saldanha D. Attitudes toward the use of facemasks during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Indian community. Ind Psychiatry J 2023; 32:S206-S212. [PMID: 38370960 PMCID: PMC10871417 DOI: 10.4103/ipj.ipj_201_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The use of face masks by all community members for the prevention of COVID-19 infection is considered one of the most effective strategies. However, the use of masks by community members was influenced by many factors which affected its efficacy as a preventive measure. Aim To evaluate the attitudes toward the use of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Indian community. Materials and Methods We did an online survey with the help of a questionnaire which included information about demographic data, awareness and attitudes about COVID-19 infection and its preventive measures, and attitudes towards mask use in particular. Results Participants had a positive attitude towards mask use. However, there were certain reasons for not using masks some of which were gender specific. Conclusion People had good awareness and attitude towards mask use. However, some gender differences in perception of masks used in various settings should be addressed for future awareness and education of the community about mask use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pearl Kanojia
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bhushan Chaudhury
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Parisha Kelkar
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Archana Javadekar
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Suprakash Chaudhury
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Daniel Saldanha
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Brailovskaia J, Schneider S, Zhang XC, Margraf J. How Do Adherence to COVID-19 Mitigation Measures and Its Predictors Change between 2020 and 2021? An Explorative Investigation in Eight European Union and Non-European Union Countries. Psychopathology 2023; 57:123-135. [PMID: 37820601 DOI: 10.1159/000533647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adherence to COVID-19 mitigation measures is an important vehicle that has contributed to the fight against the pandemic. The present study investigated potential changes of the level of adherence and its predictors between 2020 and 2021 in eight countries. METHODS Adherence to COVID-19 measures and its potential predictors (perception of usefulness of the measures, rating of the governmental COVID-19 communication, mental health variables, COVID-19 burden) were compared between representative population samples from European Union countries (France, Germany, Poland, Spain, Sweden) and non-European Union countries (Russia, UK, USA) assessed in 2020 (N = 7,658) and 2021 (N = 8,244). RESULTS In the overall sample, multiple analyses of variance revealed significantly higher levels of adherence to the measures, their perception as useful, positive mental health, and feelings of being well supported and well informed by governments in 2020 than in 2021. In contrast, feelings of being left alone and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress were significantly higher in 2021 than in 2020. In France, Poland, Spain, and the UK, the adherence level was significantly higher in 2020 than in 2021. In European Union countries, ratings of governmental communication were less positive, and levels of mental health were lower in 2021 than in 2020. In non-European countries, an opposite result pattern was found. CONCLUSION The current results indicate a decrease in adherence to the mitigation measures and factors that could foster it. Potential ways how governments and authorities could enhance the population's trust in COVID-19 mitigation measures are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- DZPG (German Center for Mental Health), Partner Site Bochum/Marburg, Bochum, Germany
| | - Silvia Schneider
- DZPG (German Center for Mental Health), Partner Site Bochum/Marburg, Bochum, Germany
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Xiao Chi Zhang
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- DZPG (German Center for Mental Health), Partner Site Bochum/Marburg, Bochum, Germany
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Craig SG, Robillard CL, Ames ME, Feldman S, Pepler DJ. Adherence to and Motivations for Complying With Public Health Measures Among Adolescents During the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Pandemic in Canada. Psychol Rep 2023:332941231201355. [PMID: 37732514 DOI: 10.1177/00332941231201355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Background: Public health measures (e.g., minimizing social interactions, social distancing, and mask wearing) have been implemented in Canada to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Given that adolescents may be a high-risk demographic for spreading COVID-19, this study investigated adherence to and motivations for complying with public health measures among Canadian youth at two points of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Adolescents (N = 1,484, 53% girls, Mage = 15.73 [SD = 1.41]) completed an online survey in either Summer 2020 (Cohort 1 [C1]; n = 809, 56% girls) or Winter 2020/2021 (Cohort 2 [C2]; n = 675, 50% girls). We investigated differences in adherence across cohorts using independent sample t-tests and predictors of adherence using a path analysis. Results: Youth engaged in similar levels of social interaction in C1 and C2. Relative to adolescents in C1, adolescents in C2 reported more mask wearing, but less social distancing. Social responsibility was associated with adherence to almost all public health measures across both cohorts, with one exception: it did not predict minimizing social interactions in C2. Not wanting to get sick predicted minimizing social interactions and mask wearing. Concern with population health predicted adherence to all public health measures in C1 and all but mask wearing in C2. Maintaining social ties was negatively associated with minimizing social interactions in both cohorts, and with social distancing in C1. Conclusions: Youth engaged in more mask wearing but less social distancing as the pandemic progressed. Social responsibility and not wanting to get sick were consistent predictors of adherence to most public health measures throughout the pandemic. Youth shifted away from adhering to mask wearing measures due to concern with population health over the course of the pandemic. These results can inform targeted campaigns to bolster compliance with public health measures among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Megan E Ames
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | | | - Debra J Pepler
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Mohammadi S, Tabatabaei Yazdi SM, Balagholi S, Saremi S, Dabbaghi R, Ferdowsi S, Eshghi P. Assessment of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Preparing Hygienic Condition in the Blood Donation Centers during the Outbreak of COVID-19. Int J Hematol Oncol Stem Cell Res 2023; 17:167-176. [PMID: 37817974 PMCID: PMC10560646 DOI: 10.18502/ijhoscr.v17i3.13306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has led to an alteration in hygienic conditions. In this situation, improving standard operating procedures (SOPs) in blood donation centers is critical. The purpose of this study was the assessment of SOPs in the blood donation centers during the outbreak of COVID-19 by regular blood donors as external audits. Materials and Methods: Regular donors were selected as external inspectors in 31 provinces of Iran. The questionnaire containing 10 closed questions was provided to assess the hygienic SOPs of blood transfusion centers in the prevention of COVID-19 transmission. Comparison and evaluation of questionnaires were conducted by assigning an importance coefficient (IC) score to each question. Results: Assessment of SOPs in blood donation departments by regular donors in 31 provinces of Iran showed that 18 centers (58.1%) received IC scores >10(Strong performance), seven centers (22.6%) received the range of IC scores between7-10(acceptable performance), and six centers (19.4%) received IC scores <7(poor performance). The difference in IC scores between provinces was not statistically significant. Conclusion: This study confirms that the assessment of blood donation centers through regular blood donor inspection is a reliable method to identify the strengths and weaknesses of blood transfusion center services and ultimately leads to corrective intervention and improvement of hygienic SOPs to prevent COVID-19 transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Mohammadi
- Research Institute for Oncology, Hematology and Cell Therapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cell Therapy and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sahar Balagholi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Saremi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasul Dabbaghi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirin Ferdowsi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peyman Eshghi
- Pediatric Congenital Hematologic Disorders Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Alfano V, Cicatiello L, Ercolano S. Assessing the effectiveness of mandatory outdoor mask policy: The natural experiment of Campania. Econ Hum Biol 2023; 50:101265. [PMID: 37348287 PMCID: PMC10259108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2023.101265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Face masks are possibly the main symbol of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once rarely used in Western countries, in the last two years they have become an object it is impossible to leave one's home without. Italy made their use a legal requirement, even outdoors, from late 2020 to early 2022. The effectiveness of this policy in reducing COVID-19 cases has been widely debated. The recent cancellation of their mandatory use in Italy offers an interesting setting in which to test its impact, since one Italian region (Campania) extended the restriction for a further three weeks. We aim to shed some light on the real-world impact of mandatory use of face masks outdoors, identifying the effect of this policy on the spread of COVID-19. By means of a quantitative analysis, employing a synthetic control method approach, we find that Campania had statistically the same number of cases as its synthetic counterfactual, built from a donor pool formed from the other Italian provinces. Hence, results suggest that while it imposes a burden on the public, the use of face masks outdoors is not correlated with a decrease in the number of COVID-19 cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Alfano
- DiGESIM, University of Napoli Parthenope, Napoli, Italy; Center for Economic Studies - CESifo, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Cicatiello
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Napoli L'Orientale, Napoli, Italy
| | - Salvatore Ercolano
- Department of Mathematics, Information Sciences and Economics, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy; National University Centre for Applied Economic Studies - CMET 05, Italy
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Abstract
In Korea, mask-wearing behavior (MWB) has become the "new normal" to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This study aimed to explore the cultural factors affecting MWB in Korea and identify the health value of culture hidden behind the collective preventive actions of Koreans through etic (external, general) and emic (internal, indigenous) cultural approaches. We conducted a survey (N = 720) to measure MWB perception based on its necessity and actual MWB, with an individual-level analysis of vertical and horizontal collectivism-individualism and we-ness. The results indicated that horizontal individualism, vertical collectivism, cognitive we-ness, and affective we-ness positively influenced MWB perception, whereas vertical individualism negatively influenced the dependent variable. Our results contradict previous understandings of collective action as rooted in collectivism, and suggest that horizontal individualism with civic consciousness and we-ness are needed to develop culturally appropriate communication strategies that encourage collective cooperation and response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonhwa Mo
- Department of Media and Communication, Sungkyunkwan University
| | - Hyun Soon Park
- Department of Media and Communication, Sungkyunkwan University
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8
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Fumagalli R. Please wear a mask: a systematic case for mask wearing mandates. J Med Ethics 2023:jme-2022-108736. [PMID: 36810325 DOI: 10.1136/jme-2022-108736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This paper combines considerations from ethics, medicine and public health policy to articulate and defend a systematic case for mask wearing mandates (MWM). The paper argues for two main claims of general interest in favour of MWM. First, MWM provide a more effective, just and fair way to tackle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic than policy alternatives such as laissez-faire approaches, mask wearing recommendations and physical distancing measures. And second, the proffered objections against MWM may justify some exemptions for specific categories of individuals, but do not cast doubt on the justifiability of these mandates. Hence, unless some novel decisive objections are put forward against MWM, governments should adopt MWM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Fumagalli
- Political Economy, King's College London, London, UK
- Philosophy, The London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
- Behavioral Ethics Lab, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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9
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Cumbo E, Gallina G, Messina P, Scardina GA. Filter Masks during the Second Phase of SARS-CoV-2: Study on Population. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:2360. [PMID: 36767727 PMCID: PMC9915404 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the most common countermeasure are the use of masks, which are supposed to filter inhaled and exhaled air to reduce the spread of the virus. The masks, which are medical devices, must be used by providing appropriate instructions for correct use. This study, which examined the population during the advanced stage of the pandemic, highlighted a substantial improvement in the management and choice of masks, even though the information disseminated to the population probably should be even more detailed and precise in order to avoid incorrect behavior that could compromise the effectiveness of these devices; in fact a high percentage of subjects had behaviors that can facilitate the spread of the virus, such as the continuous attempts to correct the incorrect positioning of the mask on the face or the need to move it because it is annoying.
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Sloane R, Pieper CF, Faldowski R, Wixted D, Neighbors CE, Woods CW, Kristin Newby L. COVID-19 Infection Risk Among Previously Uninfected Adults: Development of a Prognostic Model. Health Serv Res Manag Epidemiol 2023; 10:23333928231154336. [PMID: 37006334 PMCID: PMC10052611 DOI: 10.1177/23333928231154336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Few models exist that incorporate measures from an array of individual characteristics to predict the risk of COVID-19 infection in the general population. The aim was to develop a prognostic model for COVID-19 using readily obtainable clinical variables. Methods Over 74 weeks surveys were periodically administered to a cohort of 1381 participants previously uninfected with COVID-19 (June 2020 to December 2021). Candidate predictors of incident infection during follow-up included demographics, living situation, financial status, physical activity, health conditions, flu vaccination history, COVID-19 vaccine intention, work/employment status, and use of COVID-19 mitigation behaviors. The final logistic regression model was created using a penalized regression method known as the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. Model performance was assessed by discrimination and calibration. Internal validation was performed via bootstrapping, and results were adjusted for overoptimism. Results Of the 1381 participants, 154 (11.2%) had an incident COVID-19 infection during the follow-up period. The final model included six variables: health insurance, race, household size, and the frequency of practicing three mitigation behavior (working at home, avoiding high-risk situations, and using facemasks). The c-statistic of the final model was 0.631 (0.617 after bootstrapped optimism-correction). A calibration plot suggested that with this sample the model shows modest concordance with incident infection at the lowest risk. Conclusion This prognostic model can help identify which community-dwelling older adults are at the highest risk for incident COVID-19 infection and may inform medical provider counseling of their patients about the risk of incident COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Sloane
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Richard Sloane, Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Box 3003, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Carl F Pieper
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Richard Faldowski
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Douglas Wixted
- Duke Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Coralei E Neighbors
- Hubert-Yeargan Center for Global Health, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christopher W Woods
- Hubert-Yeargan Center for Global Health, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - L Kristin Newby
- Duke Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Suarez-Cabello C, Valdivia E, Vergara-Buenaventura A. Clinical-Epidemiological Profile of Dental Professionals Associated with COVID-19 Infection in Southern Peru: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 20:672. [PMID: 36612988 PMCID: PMC9819377 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Dental professionals have been identified as being at high risk for COVID-19 infection due to close contact with patients and the nature of dental treatments. However, the prevalence of infected dentists in Peru has not been determined. An online electronic survey was sent to dentists registered with the College of Dentists of Arequipa to collect sociodemographic data, medical conditions, and employment characteristics during the COVID-19 pandemic. The clinical characteristics and adverse effects of dentists diagnosed with COVID-19 were also recorded. The overall prevalence of COVID-19 infection was 44%. The highest number of diagnosed patients ranged in age from 31 to 40 years (n = 111; 48.9%). A total of 45.9% of female and 41.6% of male dentists were diagnosed with COVID-19 (p = 0.425). A relationship was found between the district of origin and infection, and dentists working in the public sector during 2021 showed a greater trend of becoming infected (57.6%) (p < 0.05). The antigen swab test was the diagnostic test most frequently used (38%), and cough was the symptom most reported. Only 0.6% reported being hospitalized, 10.6% reported needing oxygen during hospitalization, and 0.6% were admitted to an intensive care unit. As in previous studies in other countries, the rate of COVID-19 infection among Peruvian dentists is high. It is recommended that dentists carry out infection control measures while ministries of health and dental associations take measures to ensure their safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Suarez-Cabello
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Panamericana Sur Km 19, Villa, Lima 15067, Peru
| | - Erick Valdivia
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 91501-970, Brazil
- Sección de Periodoncia e Implantes, Departamento de Estomatología, Hospital Central de la Fuerza Aérea del Perú, Miraflores 15046, Peru
| | - Andrea Vergara-Buenaventura
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Panamericana Sur Km 19, Villa, Lima 15067, Peru
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Brailovskaia J, Krasavtseva Y, Kochetkov Y, Tour P, Margraf J. Social media use, mental health, and suicide-related outcomes in Russian women: A cross-sectional comparison between two age groups. Womens Health (Lond) 2022; 18:17455057221141292. [PMID: 36510444 PMCID: PMC9751176 DOI: 10.1177/17455057221141292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who belong to the age group "emerging adulthood" (18 to 29 years) are vulnerable to mental health issues and suicide-related outcomes. OBJECTIVES This study investigated potential predictors of suicide-related outcomes in females emerging adulthood and compared them to older women. DESIGN AND METHODS Data of 2537 women from Russia (group "18 to 29 years": n = 1123; group "> 29 years": n = 1414) on lifetime suicide-related outcomes, (problematic) social media use, daily stress, depression and anxiety symptoms, and positive mental health were assessed via online cross-sectional surveys. RESULTS The younger group spent significantly more time on social media use than the older group. It had significantly higher levels of daily stress, problematic social media use, depression and anxiety symptoms, and suicide-related outcomes. The older group showed significantly higher levels of positive mental health. Only in the younger group, problematic social media use significantly mediated the relationship between daily stress and suicide-related outcomes in a moderated mediation analysis. Positive mental health significantly moderated the association between problematic social media use and suicide-related outcomes. Specifically, the higher the positive mental health level, the less close the link between both variables. CONCLUSION The current results reveal that young women in Russia could be at enhanced risk for daily stress, problematic social media use, and low levels of mental health. The interaction between these variables could foster suicide-related outcomes. Public governmental communication in Russia should call attention to potential negative impact of intensive social media use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany,Julia Brailovskaia, Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Massenbergstrasse 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany.
| | - Yulia Krasavtseva
- Department of Pedagogy and Medical Psychology, Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia,Department of Psychology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia,Center for Cognitive Therapy, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Polina Tour
- Center for Cognitive Therapy, Moscow, Russia
| | - Jürgen Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Tso RV, Chui CO, Hsiao JH. How does face mask in COVID-19 pandemic disrupt face learning and recognition in adults with autism spectrum disorder? Cogn Res Princ Implic 2022; 7:64. [PMID: 35867196 PMCID: PMC9306242 DOI: 10.1186/s41235-022-00407-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Use of face masks is one of the measures adopted by the general community to stop the transmission of disease during this ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This wide use of face masks has indeed been shown to disrupt day-to-day face recognition. People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have predisposed impairment in face recognition and are expected to be more vulnerable to this disruption in face recognition. Here, we recruited typically developing adult participants and those with ASD, and we measured their non-verbal intelligence, autism spectrum quotient, empathy quotient, and recognition performances of faces with and without a face mask covering the lower halves of the face. When faces were initially learned unobstructed, we showed that participants had a general reduced face recognition performance for masked faces. In contrast, when masked faces were first learned, typically developing adults benefit with an overall advantage in recognizing both masked and unmasked faces; while adults with ASD recognized unmasked faces with a significantly more reduced level of performance than masked faces—this face recognition discrepancy is predicted by a higher level of autistic traits. This paper also discusses how autistic traits influence processing of faces with and without face masks.
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Al-Rawi A, Siddiqi M, Wenham C, Smith J. The gendered dimensions of the anti-mask and anti-lockdown movement on social media. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 2022; 9:418. [PMID: 36466705 PMCID: PMC9702959 DOI: 10.1057/s41599-022-01442-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines the anti-mask and anti-lockdown online movement in connection to the COVID-19 pandemic. To combat the spread of the coronavirus, health officials around the world urged and/or mandated citizens to wear facemasks and adopt physical distancing measures. These health policies and guidelines have become highly politicized in some parts of the world, often discussed in association with freedom of choice and independence. We downloaded references to the anti-mask and anti-lockdown social media posts using 24 search terms. From a total of 4209 social media posts, the researchers manually filtered the explicit visual and textual content that is related to discussions of different genders. We used multimodal discourse analysis (MDM) which analyzes diverse modes of communicative texts and images and focuses on appeals to emotions and reasoning. Using the MDM approach, we analysed posts taken from Facebook and Instagram from active anti-mask and anti-lockdown users, and we identified three main discourses around the gendered discussion of the anti-mask movement including hypermasculine, sexist and pejorative portrayals of "Karen", and appropriating freedom and feminism discourses. A better understanding of how social media users evoke gendered discourses to spread anti-mask and anti-lockdown messages can help researchers identify differing reactions toward pandemic measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Al-Rawi
- Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Dr., Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Maliha Siddiqi
- Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Dr., Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Clare Wenham
- London School of Economics and Political Science, Houghton St, London, WC2A 2AE UK
| | - Julia Smith
- Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Dr., Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
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15
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Alamawi HO, Alruwaili MS, Alswayed SK, Alhumaidi WA, Aldabali SO, Alfalah HA. Mask-Induced Facial Dermatoses in the Saudi Arabian Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e31151. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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16
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Buzzin A, Domènech-Gil G, Fraschetti E, Giovine E, Puglisi D, Caputo D. Assessing the consequences of prolonged usage of disposable face masks. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16796. [PMID: 36207345 PMCID: PMC9540090 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20692-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, wearing a disposable face mask has become a worldwide daily routine, not only for medical operators or specialized personnel, but also for common people. Notwithstanding the undeniable positive effect in reducing the risk of virus transmission, it is important to understand if a prolonged usage of the same face mask can have effectiveness on filtering capability and potential health consequences. To this aim, we present three investigations. A survey, carried out in central Italy, offers an overview of the distorted public awareness of face mask usage. A functional study shows how prolonged wearing leads to substantial drops in humid air filtration efficiency. Finally, a morphological analysis reports the proliferation of fungal or bacteria colonies inside an improperly used mask. Our study highlights therefore that wearing a face mask is really beneficial only if it is used correctly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Buzzin
- Department of Information Engineering, Electronics and Telecommunications, Sapienza University of Rome, via Eudossiana, 18 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Guillem Domènech-Gil
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Sensor and Actuator Systems Division, Linköping University, Campus Valla, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Elena Fraschetti
- Department of Information Engineering, Electronics and Telecommunications, Sapienza University of Rome, via Eudossiana, 18 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Ennio Giovine
- Institute for Photonics and Nanotechnologies, IFN - CNR, Via Cineto Romano 42, 00156, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Puglisi
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Sensor and Actuator Systems Division, Linköping University, Campus Valla, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Domenico Caputo
- Department of Information Engineering, Electronics and Telecommunications, Sapienza University of Rome, via Eudossiana, 18 00184, Rome, Italy.
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17
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Whitley MD, Coulter ID, Khorsan R, Herman PM. Barriers to the Engagement of Complementary and Integrative Health Providers in Public Health Responses to COVID-19: Recommendations From a Multidisciplinary Expert Panel. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2022; 45:566-574. [PMID: 37294218 PMCID: PMC10254438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2023.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this project was to explore barriers to the involvement of complementary and integrative health (CIH) providers in the public health response to COVID-19 and potential solutions for future involvement in public health crises. METHODS An expert panel of 10 people, which included doctors of chiropractic, naturopathic doctors, public health practitioners, and researchers from the United States, was convened for a day-long online panel discussion. Facilitators asked panelists how CIH practitioners could contribute and be mobilized. We summarized themes and recommendations from the discussion. RESULTS Despite their skills and resources, few CIH providers participated in public health efforts like testing and contact tracing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Panelists described that CIH professionals may not have participated in those efforts due to the CIH providers possibly not having sufficient public health training and limited contact with public health professionals, as well as policy and financial challenges during the pandemic. Panelists proposed solutions to these barriers, including more public health training, stronger formal relationships between CIH and public health organizations, and improved financial support for both CIH care and public health efforts. CONCLUSION Through an expert panel discussion, we identified barriers that hindered the involvement of CIH providers in the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. During future pandemics in the United States, public health planners should recognize CIH providers as part of the existing labor resource, with clinical expertise and community-level connections that can be called upon in a crisis. During future events, CIH professional leaders should be more proactive in seeking out a supportive role and sharing their knowledge, skills, and expertise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Raheleh Khorsan
- Interprofessional Clinical Sciences, Southern California University of Health Sciences, Whittier, California
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18
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Wang TK, Solano T, Shoele K. Bridge the gap: correlate face mask leakage and facial features with 3D morphable face models. J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol 2022; 32:735-743. [PMID: 34741114 PMCID: PMC8570071 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-021-00399-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Face masks have been proven to be effective in protecting the public against airborne transmitted diseases when fitted appropriately. However, for homemade cloth masks and surgical masks, the fit is often poor, allowing viruses to escape through the gap. OBJECTIVE This work aims to identify the correlation between the mask leakage, mask configurations, and individual's facial features. METHODS A novel locally morphing 3D face model, and a minimum-energy-based mask deployment model are used to systematically examine the mask fit for a large cohort of exemplars. RESULTS The results show that the mask size and tuck-in ratio, along with selective facial features, especially nose height and chin length, are key factors determining the leakage location and extent. A polynomial regression model is presented for mask fitness based on localized facial features. SIGNIFICANCE This study is a complete pipeline to test various masks on a wide range of faces with controlled modification of distinct regions of the face, which is difficult to achieve with human subjects, and provide knowledge on how the masks should be designed in the future. IMPACT STATEMENT The face mask "fit" affects the mask's efficacy in preventing airborne transmission. To date, research on the face mask fit has been conducted mainly using experiments on limited subjects. The limited sample size in experimental studies makes it hard to reach a statistical correlation between mask fit and facial features in a population. Here, we employ a novel framework that utilizes a morphable face model and mask's deployment simulation to test mask fit for many facial characteristics and mask designs. The proposed technique is an important step toward enabling personalized mask selection with maximum efficacy for society members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tso-Kang Wang
- FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Tomas Solano
- FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Kourosh Shoele
- FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
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19
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Al Huraimel K, Alhosani M, Gopalani H, Kunhabdulla S, Stietiya MH. Elucidating the role of environmental management of forests, air quality, solid waste and wastewater on the dissemination of SARS-CoV-2. Hyg Environ Health Adv 2022; 3:100006. [PMID: 37519421 PMCID: PMC9095661 DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2022.100006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The increasing frequency of zoonotic diseases is amongst several catastrophic repercussions of inadequate environmental management. Emergence, prevalence, and lethality of zoonotic diseases is intrinsically linked to environmental management which are currently at a destructive level globally. The effects of these links are complicated and interdependent, creating an urgent need of elucidating the role of environmental mismanagement to improve our resilience to future pandemics. This review focused on the pertinent role of forests, outdoor air, indoor air, solid waste and wastewater management in COVID-19 dissemination to analyze the opportunities prevailing to control infectious diseases considering relevant data from previous disease outbreaks. Global forest management is currently detrimental and hotspots of forest fragmentation have demonstrated to result in zoonotic disease emergences. Deforestation is reported to increase susceptibility to COVID-19 due to wildfire induced pollution and loss of forest ecosystem services. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 like viruses in multiple animal species also point to the impacts of biodiversity loss and forest fragmentation in relation to COVID-19. Available literature on air quality and COVID-19 have provided insights into the potential of air pollutants acting as plausible virus carrier and aggravating immune responses and expression of ACE2 receptors. SARS-CoV-2 is detected in outdoor air, indoor air, solid waste, wastewater and shown to prevail on solid surfaces and aerosols for prolonged hours. Furthermore, lack of protection measures and safe disposal options in waste management are evoking concerns especially in underdeveloped countries due to high infectivity of SARS-CoV-2. Inadequate legal framework and non-adherence to environmental regulations were observed to aggravate the postulated risks and vulnerability to future waves of pandemics. Our understanding underlines the urgent need to reinforce the fragile status of global environmental management systems through the development of strict legislative frameworks and enforcement by providing institutional, financial and technical supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Al Huraimel
- Division of Consultancy, Research & Innovation (CRI), Sharjah Environment Company - Bee'ah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed Alhosani
- Division of Consultancy, Research & Innovation (CRI), Sharjah Environment Company - Bee'ah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hetasha Gopalani
- Division of Consultancy, Research & Innovation (CRI), Sharjah Environment Company - Bee'ah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shabana Kunhabdulla
- Division of Consultancy, Research & Innovation (CRI), Sharjah Environment Company - Bee'ah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Hashem Stietiya
- Division of Consultancy, Research & Innovation (CRI), Sharjah Environment Company - Bee'ah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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20
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Su KC, Wang CH, Yen YC. Evaluations of 3D-Printed Surgical Mask Tension Release Bands for Common COVID-19 Use with Biomechanics, Sensor Array System, and Finite Element Analysis. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 22:5897. [PMID: 35957456 PMCID: PMC9371430 DOI: 10.3390/s22155897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A mask is one of the most basic protections to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. Surgical mask tension release bands (SMTRBs) are commonly used to ease the pain caused by prolonged mask use. However, the structural strength of SMTRBs and the effect that wearing masks with SMTRBs has on the face are unclear. Thus, this study assessed the mechanics of seven different types of 3D-printed SMTRBs. In this study, a tensile testing machine, a sensor array system, and finite element analysis were used to evaluate the mechanisms of seven SMTRBs. The tensile testing machine was applied to measure the breaking strength, elongation, stiffness, and rupture of the band. The sensor array system was used to calculate the pressure on the face when the band was used together with the mask. Finite element analysis was applied to evaluate the level of stress on the SMTRB structure when each of the seven bands was subjected to external force. The results demonstrated that thick SMTRBs put more pressure on the face but had greater structural strength. The thinner bands did not break easily; however, the mask ear loops tended to slip off more often. In addition, the size of the band hook affected the magnitude of the external force. This study provides a biomechanical reference for the future design of SMTRBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Chih Su
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, HungKuang University, Taichung 433, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hsiang Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Yen
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan
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21
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Kim HK, Tandoc EC. Wear or Not to Wear a Mask? Recommendation Inconsistency, Government Trust and the Adoption of Protection Behaviors in Cross-Lagged TPB Models. Health Commun 2022; 37:833-841. [PMID: 33487034 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2020.1871170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study examined how exposure to government health advisories on face mask-wearing and trust in government influenced people's compliance with the advisory overtime. We conducted a three-wave panel survey (N = 1,024; T1 in February, T2 in March, T3 in April 2020) in Singapore, where the government initially enforced wearing a face mask conditional on feeling sick, and then later revised its advisory to make mask-wearing mandatory regardless of sickness. Exposure to the initial advisory at T1 had cross-lagged effects on forming positive expectancy, normative, and self-efficacy beliefs on conditional face mask-wearing at T2. Government trust at T1 also had a cross-lagged effect on increasing supportive perceived norm for conditional mask-wearing, while reducing positive expectancy of nonconditional mask-wearing at T2. Exposure to the revised advisory and government trust at T3 were positively associated with outcome expectancy, perceived norm, and self-efficacy regardless of behavior type. Regarding nonconditional mask-wearing, the autoregressive links from T2 to T3 were insignificant for perceived norm and self-efficacy and even negatively significant for intention and behavior. This study offers theoretical and practical insights by documenting the complex and dynamic processes involved in health decision-making during a novel disease pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Kyung Kim
- Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University
| | - Edson C Tandoc
- Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University
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22
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Freeman C, Burch R, Strawderman L, Black C, Saucier D, Rickert J, Wilson J, Seitz H, Stull J. Do They Really Work? Quantifying Fabric Mask Effectiveness to Improve Public Health Messaging. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph19116372. [PMID: 35681957 PMCID: PMC9180754 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to compare masks (non-medical/fabric, surgical, and N95 respirators) on filtration efficiency, differential pressure, and leakage with the goal of providing evidence to improve public health messaging. Masks were tested on an anthropometric face filtration mount, comparing both sealed and unsealed. Overall, surgical and N95 respirators provided significantly higher filtration efficiency (FE) and differential pressure (dP). Leakage comparisons are one of the most significant factors in mask efficiency. Higher weight and thicker fabric masks had significantly higher filtration efficiency. The findings of this study have important implications for communication and education regarding the use of masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, specifically the differences between sealed and unsealed masks. The type and fabric of facial masks and whether a mask is sealed or unsealed has a significant impact on the effectiveness of a mask. Findings related to differences between sealed and unsealed masks are of critical importance for health care workers. If a mask is not completely sealed around the edges of the wearer, FE for this personal protective equipment is misrepresented and may create a false sense of security. These results can inform efforts to educate health care workers and the public on the importance of proper mask fit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Freeman
- School of Human Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Reuben Burch
- Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA; (R.B.); (L.S.)
- Human Factors & Athlete Engineering, Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA;
| | - Lesley Strawderman
- Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA; (R.B.); (L.S.)
| | - Catherine Black
- School of Human Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA;
| | - David Saucier
- Human Factors & Athlete Engineering, Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA;
| | - Jaime Rickert
- Institute for Clean Energy and Technology, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA; (J.R.); (J.W.)
| | - John Wilson
- Institute for Clean Energy and Technology, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA; (J.R.); (J.W.)
| | - Holli Seitz
- Department of Communication, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA;
| | - Jeffrey Stull
- International Personal Protection, Incorporated, Austin, TX 78709, USA;
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23
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Brailovskaia J, Margraf J. Addictive social media use during Covid-19 outbreak: Validation of the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and investigation of protective factors in nine countries. Curr Psychol 2022:1-19. [PMID: 35615694 PMCID: PMC9122809 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03182-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Since the Covid-19 outbreak, addictive social media use increased in many countries. To better understand this development, a universal instrument for the assessment of addictive social media use is required. Against this background, we examined the psychometric properties of the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) in representative population samples in nine countries (N = 9418, age range: "18 to 24 years" (youngest group), "55 years and older" (oldest group): China, France, Germany, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden, U.K., U.S.). Furthermore, we investigated potential factors and mechanisms that could be associated with addictive social media use. Our cross-national findings show that the BSMAS is a unidimensional reliable and valid instrument. Moreover, they reveal that the negative association between positive mental health and addictive social media use is mediated by sense of control in seven of the nine countries (exception: China, Russia). Thus, it can be hypothesized that activities which increase positive mental health could indirectly contribute to the decrease of addictive social media use. We identified conscious engagement in physical activity and a regular sleep rhythm during the pandemic as such potential activities. The fostering of both by governmental programs could enhance positive mental health and reduce addictive social media use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Massenbergstr. 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Massenbergstr. 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany
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24
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Ray SS, Lee HK, Huyen DTT, Chen SS, Kwon YN. Microplastics waste in environment: A perspective on recycling issues from PPE kits and face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Environ Technol Innov 2022; 26:102290. [PMID: 35036477 PMCID: PMC8748211 DOI: 10.1016/j.eti.2022.102290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the extensive use of face masks and protective personal equipment (PPE) kits has led to increasing degree of microplastic pollution (MP) because they are typically discarded into the seas, rivers, streets, and other parts of the environment. Currently, microplastic (MP) pollution has a negative impact on the environment because of high-level fragmentation. Typically, MP pollution can be detected by various techniques, such as microscopic analysis, density separation, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. However, there are limited studies on disposable face masks and PPE kits. A wide range of marine species ingest MPs in the form of fibers and fragments, which directly affect the environment and human health; thus, more research and development are needed on the effect of MP pollution on human health. This article provides a perspective on the origin and distribution of MP pollution in waterbodies (e.g., rivers, ponds, lakes, and seas) and wastewater treatment plants, and reviews the possible remediation of MP pollution related to the excessive disposal of face masks and PPE kits to aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saikat Sinha Ray
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
| | - Hyung Kae Lee
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
| | - Dao Thi Thanh Huyen
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
| | - Shiao-Shing Chen
- Institute of Environmental Engineering and Management, National Taipei University of Technology, Taiwan
| | - Young-Nam Kwon
- Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea
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25
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Brailovskaia J, Margraf J. Relationship between sense of control, psychological burden, sources of information and adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules. J Affect Disord Rep 2022; 8:100317. [PMID: 35165674 PMCID: PMC8828294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2022.100317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules is important to slow down the pandemic spread. The present study investigated potential predictors of the adherence. METHODS Data of 1.247 participants from Germany (age: M (SD) = 22.99 (6.18)) were assessed via online surveys in autumn and winter 2020. The focus of the data collection was on adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules, sense of control, psychological burden, and sources of COVID-19 information. RESULTS In moderated mediation analyses, the positive relationship between sense of control and adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules was significantly mediated by the level of psychological burden experienced by the COVID-19 situation. The source of COVID-19 information significantly moderated the negative association between burden and adherence. Specifically, the higher the use of social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) and the lower the use of official governmental sites and of television reports, the closer the link between high burden and low adherence. LIMITATIONS Due to the cross-sectional study design, the present findings allow only hypothetical assumptions of causality. CONCLUSIONS The present results disclose potential mechanisms that could contribute to the adherence to anti-COVID-19 rules. They emphasize the role of the COVID-19 information source for the adherence level. Potential ways of how the level of adherence could be enhanced are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - J Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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26
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Borgelink BTH, Carchia AE, Hernández-Sánchez JF, Caputo D, Gardeniers JGE, Susarrey-Arce A. Filtering efficiency model that includes the statistical randomness of non-woven fiber layers in facemasks. Sep Purif Technol 2022; 282:120049. [PMID: 34744488 PMCID: PMC8558106 DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2021.120049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Facemasks have become important tools to fight virus spread during the recent COVID-19 pandemic, but their effectiveness is still under debate. We present a computational model to predict the filtering efficiency of an N95-facemask, consisting of three non-woven fiber layers with different particle capturing mechanisms. Parameters such as fiber layer thickness, diameter distribution, and packing density are used to construct two-dimensional cross-sectional geometries. An essential and novel element is that the polydisperse fibers are positioned randomly within a simulation domain, and that the simulation is repeated with different random configurations. This strategy is thought to give a more realistic view of practical facemasks compared to existing analytical models that mostly assume homogeneous fiber beds of monodisperse fibers. The incompressible Navier-Stokes and continuity equations are used to solve the velocity field for various droplet-laden air inflow velocities. Droplet diameters are ranging from 10 nm to 1.0 µm, which covers the size range from the SARS-CoV-2 virus to the large virus-laden airborne droplets. Air inflow velocities varying between 0.1 m·s-1 to 10 m·s-1 are considered, which are typically encountered during expiratory events like breathing, talking, and coughing. The presented model elucidates the different capturing efficiencies (i.e., mechanical and electrostatic filtering) of droplets as a function of their diameter and air inflow velocity. Simulation results are compared to analytical models and particularly compare well with experimental results from literature. Our numerical approach will be helpful in finding new directions for anti-viral facemask optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- B T H Borgelink
- Mesoscale Chemical Systems, MESA+ Institute, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - A E Carchia
- Mesoscale Chemical Systems, MESA+ Institute, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede, the Netherlands.,Department Information Engineering, Electronics and Telecommunications, Sapienza University of Rome, via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - J F Hernández-Sánchez
- Instituto de Ciencias Aplicadas y Tecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Exterior S/N, Ciudad universitaria, 04510, Mexico City
| | - D Caputo
- Department Information Engineering, Electronics and Telecommunications, Sapienza University of Rome, via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - J G E Gardeniers
- Mesoscale Chemical Systems, MESA+ Institute, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - A Susarrey-Arce
- Mesoscale Chemical Systems, MESA+ Institute, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede, the Netherlands
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Mezones-Holguin E, Al-Kassab-Córdova A, Herrera-Añazco P, Benites-Zapata VA, Toro-Huamanchumo CJ, Flores-Gavino A, Muñoz Del Carpio-Toia A, Rodríguez-Morales AJ. Frequency of Correct Mask Use Among Pedestrians in High-Flow Indoor Public Spaces: A Multicenter Analysis in the First and Second Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Peru. J Prim Care Community Health 2022; 13:21501319221134851. [PMID: 36348573 PMCID: PMC9647236 DOI: 10.1177/21501319221134851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Our study aimed to describe the variation in the frequency of correct mask
use among pedestrians in the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic
in high-flow indoor public spaces from different geographic and social
settings in Peru. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional exploratory study among pedestrians in Lima
(the capital city) and other coastal and highland cities in Peru.
Pedestrians were directly observed by trained medical students in 2
high-flow indoor areas at different times in November 2020 (first wave) and
October 2021 (second wave). Primary outcomes included the frequencies of
mask use and correct use. We applied multinomial logistic models and
estimated crude and adjusted relative prevalence ratios for sex, age,
obesity, and location. Additionally, we used binomial generalized linear
models to estimate prevalence ratios in crude and adjusted models. Results: We included 1996 participants. The frequency of mask use was similar in both
years: 96.9% in 2020 and 95.5% in 2021. However, the frequency of correct
mask use significantly decreased from 81.9% (95% CI, 79.4-84.3) in 2020 to
60.3% (95% CI, 57.2-67.3) in 2021. In 2020, we observed an increase in the
probability of misuse in the cities of Lima (aRP: 1.42;
P = .021) and Chiclayo (aPR: 1.62,
P = .001), whereas, in 2021, we noted an increase in the
probability of misuse in the cities of Lima (aRP: 1.72;
P < .001) and Piura (aPR: 1.44;
P < .001). Conclusions: The correct mask use decreased during the second wave, although no
significant overall variations were observed in mask use in pedestrians
between both periods. Also, we found regional differences in correct mask
use in both periods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Percy Herrera-Añazco
- Universidad San Juan Bautista, Lima, Peru.,Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación (IETSI), EsSalud, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | | | - Alfonso J Rodríguez-Morales
- Latin American Network of COVID-19 Research (LANCOVID), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia.,Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
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Esmaeilzadeh P. Public concerns and burdens associated with face mask-wearing: Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. Prog Disaster Sci 2022; 13:100215. [PMID: 35036901 PMCID: PMC8752171 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdisas.2022.100215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
This study attempts to identify and categorize the key concerns of wearing masks. An online survey was used to collect data from 2746 people in the United States. Results show that the mask-wearing concerns can be classified into three categories; discomfort barriers (physical discomfort and communication discomfort), external factors (overstated news about coronavirus threat, political beliefs, and absence of mask-wearing culture), and usability issues (lack of effectiveness, unnecessariness of masks in certain cases, and mask maintenance issues). The findings demonstrate that all mentioned concerns strongly shape people's attitudes toward wearing masks, except for political beliefs and lack of effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pouyan Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Information Systems and Business Analytics, College of Business, Florida International University (FIU), Modesto A. Maidique Campus, 11200 S.W. 8th St, RB 261B, Miami, FL 33199, United States
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29
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Brailovskaia J, Stirnberg J, Rozgonjuk D, Margraf J, Elhai JD. From low sense of control to problematic smartphone use severity during Covid-19 outbreak: The mediating role of fear of missing out and the moderating role of repetitive negative thinking. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261023. [PMID: 34936651 PMCID: PMC8694423 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of Covid-19, the use of digital devices, especially smartphones, remarkably increased. Smartphone use belongs to one's daily routine, but can negatively impact physical and mental health, performance, and relationships if used excessively. The present study aimed to investigate potential correlates of problematic smartphone use (PSU) severity and the mechanisms underlying its development. Data of 516 smartphone users from Germany (Mage = 31.91, SDage = 12.96) were assessed via online surveys in April and May 2021. PSU severity was significantly negatively associated with sense of control. In contrast, it was significantly positively linked to fear of missing out (FoMO), repetitive negative thinking (RNT), and daily time spent on smartphone use. In a moderated mediation analysis, the negative relationship between sense of control and PSU severity was significantly mediated by FoMO. RNT significantly moderated the positive association between FoMO and PSU severity. Specifically, the higher the RNT, the stronger the relationship between FoMO and PSU. The present findings disclose potential mechanisms that could contribute to PSU. Potential ways of how to reduce PSU severity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jan Stirnberg
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dmitri Rozgonjuk
- Department of Molecular Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jürgen Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jon D. Elhai
- Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States of America
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30
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Brailovskaia J, Schneider S, Margraf J. To vaccinate or not to vaccinate!? Predictors of willingness to receive Covid-19 vaccination in Europe, the U.S., and China. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260230. [PMID: 34851986 PMCID: PMC8635370 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Researcher teams around the globe including the "Project Lightspeed" are intensively working on vaccines to fight the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the availability of effective vaccines does not guarantee the vaccination willingness among the population. In spring 2021, we investigated the vaccination willingness and its potential predictors in representative online samples in nine countries (China, France, Germany, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden, U.K., U.S.). Of the 9,264 participants, 79.9% revealed Covid-19 vaccination willingness. The highest willingness was in the U.K., followed by Spain and China, the lowest in Russia. In most countries, the perception of governmental Covid-19 measures as useful and the use of television reports as Covid-19 information source positively predicted the willingness. Further factors such as demographic variables, mental and physical health status, evaluation of governmental communication, social media use, and general adherence to Covid-19 measures showed a country-specific predictive pattern. Recommendations how to increase the vaccination willingness are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Silvia Schneider
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Sharif N, Alzahrani KJ, Ahmed SN, Opu RR, Ahmed N, Talukder A, Nunia R, Chowdhury MS, Nodi IJ, Saha T, Zhang M, Dey SK. Protective measures are associated with the reduction of transmission of COVID-19 in Bangladesh: A nationwide cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260287. [PMID: 34807962 PMCID: PMC8608304 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become a major public health issue globally. Preventive health measures against COVID-19 can reduce the health burden significantly by containing the transmission. A few research have been undertaken on the effectiveness of preventive strategies such as mask use, hand washing, and keeping social distance in preventing COVID-19 transmission. The main aim of this study was to determine the association of the preventive measures with the reduction of transmission of COVID-19 among people. Data was collected during January 06, 2021 to May 10, 2021 from 1690 participants in Bangladesh. A validated questionnaire was used to collect both the online and offline data. Chi-square test and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association among the variables. The prevalence of COVID-19 was 11.5% (195 of 1690) among the population. Age, gender, occupation and monthly income of the participants were significantly associated with the likelihood of following the preventive measures. The risk of infection and death reduced significantly among the participants following preventive measures (p = .001). The odds of incidence was lower among the participants using masks properly (OR: 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01-0.43), maintaining social distances (OR: 0.04, 95% CI: 0.01-0.33), avoiding crowded places (OR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.02-0.19) and hand shaking (OR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.09-0.41). This study suggests that preventive health measures are significantly associated with the reduction of the risk of infection of COVID-19. Findings from this study will help the policymakers to take appropriate steps to curb the health burden of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadim Sharif
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Khalid J. Alzahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shamsun Nahar Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Rubayet Rayhan Opu
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nayan Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Aeken Talukder
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Raju Nunia
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Israt Jahan Nodi
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Tama Saha
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Shuvra Kanti Dey
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Bukuluki PM, Kisaakye P. The Decision to Wear a Face Mask as a Protective Behavioral Measure Against COVID-19: Survey Results From Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, Uganda. Front Public Health 2021; 9:675734. [PMID: 34746072 PMCID: PMC8566546 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.675734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of face masks is one of the behavioral measures used to prevent COVID-19 infection. Despite the positive contribution of face masks, there is uncertainty surrounding face mask wearing in low-income countries. Using data from 1,054 respondents in Greater Kampala Metropolitan area, we investigate the variation in face mask wearing inside and outside public spaces. Results indicate that more than three quarters of the respondents wore a face mask always outside public spaces and slightly more than half wore a face mask sometimes inside public spaces. Irrespective of location (inside or outside public spaces), respondents were more likely to wear facemasks sometimes or always to prevent COVID-19 infection. There is need to raise awareness about face mask wearing and its efficacy to prevent COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Bukuluki
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Kisaakye
- Department of Population Studies, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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33
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Precht LM, Margraf J, Stirnberg J, Brailovskaia J. It's all about control: Sense of control mediates the relationship between physical activity and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Curr Psychol 2021;:1-9. [PMID: 34690477 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02303-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19-related burden has a significant impact on mental health and has led to an increase of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. Physical activity has been suggested to mitigate the negative effects of the pandemic and to foster mental health. The present study aimed to investigate, whether sense of control might mediate the supposed beneficial effects of physical activity on positive (PMH) and negative mental health (NMH) in unpredictable extraordinary situations. Data were assessed in a sample of 568 students (M age = 19.90, SD age = 4.52) from Germany via an online survey in fall 2020. Mediation analyses revealed that sense of control mediated the relation between physical activity and PMH as well as depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, respectively. The findings indicate that physical activity may be a promising strategy for fostering sense of control and thus mental health. Due to its practical implications and practicability, engagement in physical activity could be an effective way to reduce the NMH consequences of the current COVID-19 situation, and therefore should be addressed in actions for long-term prevention and intervention.
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34
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Rumahorbo H, Priyanto P, Karjatin A. A Cross-sectional Online Survey on Public Attitudes towards Wearing Face Masks and Washing Hands to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 in Indonesia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.6907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 infection spreads quickly and easily, hence people are required to obey health protocols. Attitudes play an important role in building people’s readiness to use face masks and wash hands.
AIM: The study aims at analyzing several factors influencing people’s attitudes towards wearing face masks and washing hands in Indonesia.
METHODS: The study employs a cross-sectional online survey involving 400 adult respondents in the Java region from July to September 2020.
RESULTS: Of 400 respondents, 54.3% showed positive attitudes toward wearing face masks and 59.3% towards washing hands. The multivariate analysis showed that people’s attitudes towards wearing face masks were influenced by age and knowledge. Respondents aged 36–45 years old had positive attitudes on wearing face masks 3.9 times (p = 0.038) and aged ≥46 years old 4.1 times (p = 0.039) compared to aged 18–35 years old. Furthermore, attitudes on washing hands were influenced by gender, age groups, and knowledge. Female had positive attitudes towards washing hands 1.7 times (p = 0.029) compared to male. Respondents aged 36–45 years old had positive attitudes on washing hands 5 times (p = 0.037) and aged ≥46 years old 4.8 times (p = 0.05) compared to aged 18–35 years old. Knowledge acted as the confounding factor.
CONCLUSION: The age and knowledge factors influenced positive attitude of using masks and washing hands were influenced by gender, age, and knowledge. Health education programs are recommended to increase knowledge about COVID-19, this is very helpful for the young generation of Indonesia to have a positive attitude.
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35
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Asri A, Asri V, Renerte B, Föllmi-Heusi F, Leuppi JD, Muser J, Nüesch R, Schuler D, Fischbacher U. Wearing a mask-For yourself or for others? Behavioral correlates of mask wearing among COVID-19 frontline workers. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253621. [PMID: 34280217 PMCID: PMC8289104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Human behavior can have effects on oneself and externalities on others. Mask wearing is such a behavior in the current pandemic. What motivates people to wear face masks in public when mask wearing is voluntary or not enforced? Which benefits should the policy makers rather emphasize in information campaigns-the reduced chances of getting the SARS-CoV-2 virus (benefits for oneself) or the reduced chances of transmitting the virus (benefits for others in the society)? In this paper, we link measured risk preferences and other-regarding preferences to mask wearing habits among 840 surveyed employees of two large Swiss hospitals. We find that the leading mask-wearing motivations change with age: While for older people, mask wearing habits are best explained by their self-regarding risk preferences, younger people are also motivated by other-regarding concerns. Our results are robust to different specifications including linear probability models, probit models and Lasso covariate selection models. Our findings thus allow drawing policy implications for effectively communicating public-health recommendations to frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Asri
- University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Thurgau Institute of Economics, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland
| | - Viola Asri
- University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Thurgau Institute of Economics, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland
| | - Baiba Renerte
- University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Thurgau Institute of Economics, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland
| | - Franziska Föllmi-Heusi
- Spital Schwyz, Schwyz, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for International Economics and Applied Economic Research, University of St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Joerg D Leuppi
- Kantonsspital Baselland, Liestal, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Reto Nüesch
- Spital Schwyz, Schwyz, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Schuler
- Spital Schwyz, Schwyz, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Urs Fischbacher
- University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Thurgau Institute of Economics, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland
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Brailovskaia J, Margraf J, Teismann T. Repetitive negative thinking mediates the relationship between addictive Facebook use and suicide-related outcomes: A longitudinal study. Curr Psychol 2021; 42:6791-6799. [PMID: 34220175 PMCID: PMC8238028 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02025-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) and addictive Facebook use have been shown to be associated with suicide ideation and suicidal behavior. The present longitudinal study aimed to investigate whether the association between addictive Facebook use and suicide-related outcomes is mediated by RNT. Data of 191 German Facebook users (M age = 26.17, SD age = 6.63) were assessed at two measurement time points over a one-year period (first measurement = T1, second measurement = T2) via online surveys. The significant positive association between addictive Facebook use (T1) and suicide-related outcomes (T2) was significantly mediated by RNT (T1). In contrast, a check test that included RNT (T1) as predictor and addictive Facebook use (T1) as mediator revealed no significant mediation effect. The current results demonstrate that if addictive Facebook use leads to RNT suicide ideation and attempts become likely. Therefore, RNT and addictive Facebook use should be taken into account when assessing individuals for risk of suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brailovskaia
- grid.5570.70000 0004 0490 981XMental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Massenbergstraße 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen Margraf
- grid.5570.70000 0004 0490 981XMental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Massenbergstraße 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany
| | - Tobias Teismann
- grid.5570.70000 0004 0490 981XMental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Massenbergstraße 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany
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Ryu J, Kim J, Choi-Kwon S. Infection Prevention Performance among In-Flight Cabin Crew in South Korea. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:6468. [PMID: 34203806 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 was declared a worldwide pandemic in 2020; thus, preventing in-flight infection transmission is important for stopping global spread via air travel. Infection prevention (IP) performance among aircraft cabin crew is crucial for preventing in-flight transmission. We aimed to identify the level of IP performance and factors affecting IP performance among aircraft cabin crew during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. An online survey was conducted with 177 cabin crew members between August and September 2020. The survey assessed IP performance, and IP awareness, using a five-point Likert scale, and also evaluated simulation-based personal protective equipment (PPE) training experience, and organizational culture. The average IP performance score was 4.56 ± 0.44. Although the performance level for mask-wearing was high (4.73 ± 0.35), hand hygiene (HH) performance (4.47 ± 0.56) was low. Multivariate analysis showed that IP performance was significantly associated with IP awareness (p < 0.05) and simulation-based PPE training experience (p < 0.05). Since HH performance was relatively low, cabin crew and airlines should make efforts to improve HH performance. Furthermore, a high level of IP awareness and PPE training experience can improve IP performance among cabin crew members. Therefore, simulation-based PPE training and strategies to improve IP awareness are essential for preventing in-flight infection transmission.
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Torres T, Pereira M, Paiva Lopes MJ, Rebelo C, Andrade P, Henrique M, Oliveira H, Ferreira P, Marques Pinto G, Menezes Brandão F, Rozeira J, Filipe P, Tavares Bello R. Dermatologists' attitude towards psoriasis treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drugs Context 2021; 10:dic-2021-4-4. [PMID: 34178094 PMCID: PMC8195567 DOI: 10.7573/dic.2021-4-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic introduced new challenges in several dimensions in healthcare services. Herein, we describe the real-life strategies and therapeutic options adopted by dermatologists regarding their patients with psoriasis being treated with or with an indication for systemic therapy during the first COVID-19 lockdown period in Portugal. Methods The study involves a web-based survey on the clinical management of systemic therapy for psoriasis during the COVID-19 pandemic administered to Portuguese dermatologists. The survey consisted of 55 questions (4 open-ended questions; 51 closed-ended questions), grouped into 6 sections. Results A total of 60 dermatologists voluntarily participated in this survey. Nearly 63% of the participants opted for suspending biologics during the COVID-19 lockdown period and 23.3% increased the time between drug administrations. Eighty percent of the participants agreed that biologics did not change the probability of acquiring COVID-19 and 58.4% believed that these drugs decreased or did not change the severity of the disease. Approximately one-third of the participants opted not to prescribe a biological agent in patients despite clinical indication over the duration of the pandemic. Nearly 25% of the participants opted for suspending traditional immunosuppressant administration. Virtual appointments were an option for 93.3% of the participants. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the management of patients with psoriasis being treated with or with an indication for systemic therapy. Some of the decisions made during the first lockdown period were contrary to what we know today. These decisions might have had a significant impact on patients’ quality of life and on future therapeutic success. An adequate interpretation and analysis of the available data will be extremely important to an insightful adaptation of the clinical practice in future confinement or restrictive scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Torres
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Maria João Paiva Lopes
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal.,CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Clarisse Rebelo
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Pedro Andrade
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Martinha Henrique
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
| | - Hugo Oliveira
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo Ferreira
- Psoriasis Unit, Hospital CUF Descobertas, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gabriela Marques Pinto
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | - Paulo Filipe
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,Dermatology Research Unit, iMM João Lobo Antunes, University of Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Choi SY, Hong JY, Kim HJ, Lee GY, Cheong SH, Jung HJ, Bang CH, Lee DH, Jue MS, Kim HO, Park EJ, Ko JY, Son SW. Mask-induced dermatoses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a questionnaire-based study in 12 Korean hospitals. Clin Exp Dermatol 2021; 46:1504-1510. [PMID: 34081799 PMCID: PMC8239570 DOI: 10.1111/ced.14776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, various adverse skin reactions to long-term mask wearing have been reported. AIM To assess the clinical features of mask-induced dermatoses and to recommend prevention and treatment options. METHODS From April to August 2020, questionnaires including topics such as demographic information, pre-existing skin disorders, reported mask-related symptoms, daily mask-wearing duration and frequency, types of masks used and whether the participant was a healthcare worker, were distributed to patients in 12 hospitals. Dermatologists assessed skin lesions, confirmed diagnosis and recorded treatments. RESULTS Itchiness was the most frequent symptom, mostly affecting the cheeks. The most common skin disease was new-onset contact dermatitis (33.94%), followed by new-onset acne (16.97%) and worsening of pre-existing acne (16.97%). Daily wearing of masks was significantly (P = 0.02) associated with new-onset contact dermatitis. More than half of patients with pre-existing skin problems experienced disease worsening while wearing masks. Longer duration of wearing (> 6 h/day, P = 0.04) and use of cotton masks (P < 0.001) significantly increased acne flare-up. Healthcare workers had a higher incidence of skin disease. Skin lesions were generally mild and well tolerated with topical treatment. The study had some limitations: the effect of seasonal characteristics and other risk factors were not assessed, and the patients were visiting dermatological clinics and had interest in their skin status, thus, there may have been selection bias. CONCLUSION Mask-induced/-triggered dermatoses contribute to increase the dermatological burden during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Choi
- Department of Dermatology, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - J Y Hong
- Department of Dermatology, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Sejong, Korea
| | - H J Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - G-Y Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - S H Cheong
- Department of Dermatology, Konyang University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - H J Jung
- Department of Dermatology, National Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - C H Bang
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - D H Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - M-S Jue
- Department of Dermatology, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - H O Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Hallym University Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - E J Park
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul, Korea
| | - J Y Ko
- Department of Dermatology, Hanyang University College of Medicine and Hanyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - S W Son
- Department of Dermatology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Clemente-suárez VJ, Navarro-jiménez E, Moreno-luna L, Saavedra-serrano MC, Jimenez M, Simón JA, Tornero-aguilera JF. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Social, Health, and Economy. Sustainability 2021; 13:6314. [DOI: 10.3390/su13116314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In late December 2019, a series of acute atypical respiratory disease occurred in Wuhan, China, which rapidly spread to other areas worldwide. It was soon discovered that a novel coronavirus was responsible, named the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2, 2019-nCoV). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the population’s health is unprecedented in recent years and the impact on a social level even more so. The COVID-19 pandemic is the most large-scale pandemic on earth this century, and the impact in all life sectors is devasting and directly affected human activity in the first wave. The impact on the economy, social care systems, and human relationships is causing an unprecedented global crisis. SARS-CoV-2 has a strong direct acute impact on population health, not only at the physiological level but also at the psychological level for those who suffer it, those close to them, and the general population, who suffer from the social consequences of the pandemic. In this line, the economic recession increased, even more, the social imbalance and inequity, hitting the most vulnerable families, and creating a difficult context for public institutions to address. We are facing one of the greatest challenges of social intervention, which requires fast, effective, and well-coordinated responses from public institutions, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations to serve an increasingly hopeless population with increasingly urgent needs. Long-term legislation is necessary to reduce the vulnerability of the less fortunate, as well as to analyze the societal response to improve the social organization management of available resources. Therefore, in this scoping review, a consensus and critical review were performed using both primary sources, such as scientific articles, and secondary ones, such as bibliographic indexes, web pages, and databases. The main search engines were PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar. The method was a narrative literature review of the available literature. The aim was to assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on population health, where the possible interventions at the health level are discussed, the impact in economic and social areas, and the government and health systems interventions in the pandemic, and finally, possible economic models for the recovery of the crisis are proposed.
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Haftom M, Petrucka PM. Determinants of Face Mask Utilization to Prevent Covid-19 Pandemic among Quarantined Adults in Tigrai Region, Northern Ethiopia, 2020. Clin Nurs Res 2021; 30:1107-1112. [PMID: 33955280 PMCID: PMC8950710 DOI: 10.1177/10547738211013219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A face mask is a vital component of personal protective equipment to prevent potentially contagious respiratory infections. There was a lack of evidence showing the proportion and determinants of face mask use in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to identify face mask utilization determinants to prevent spread of the Covid-19 pandemic among quarantined adults in Tigrai region, northern Ethiopia. A total of 331 participants selected using a systematic random sampling method were included in the study. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was employed. After describing the variables using frequencies, means, and standard deviations, multivariable logistic regression determined factors associated with face mask utilization to prevent COVID-19 spread. The study participants were primarily males (70%) and mean age was 30.5 (SD = 11) years. Nearly half of the participants reported they did not wear a face mask when leaving home. Face mask utilization was significantly associated with knowledge score, employment status, gender, age, and educational status of the study participants.
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Drake JM, Dahlin K, Rohani P, Handel A. Five approaches to the suppression of SARS-CoV-2 without intensive social distancing. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20203074. [PMID: 33906405 PMCID: PMC8080008 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.3074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Initial efforts to mitigate transmission of SARS-CoV-2 relied on intensive social distancing measures such as school and workplace closures, shelter-in-place orders and prohibitions on the gathering of people. Other non-pharmaceutical interventions for suppressing transmission include active case finding, contact tracing, quarantine, immunity or health certification, and a wide range of personal protective measures. Here we investigate the potential effectiveness of these alternative approaches to suppression. We introduce a conceptual framework represented by two mathematical models that differ in strategy. We find both strategies may be effective, although both require extensive testing and work within a relatively narrow range of conditions. Generalized protective measures such as wearing face masks, improved hygiene and local reductions in density are found to significantly increase the effectiveness of targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M. Drake
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Kyle Dahlin
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Pejman Rohani
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Andreas Handel
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- College of Public Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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Chong YY, Chien WT, Cheng HY, Lamnisos D, Ļubenko J, Presti G, Squatrito V, Constantinou M, Nicolaou C, Papacostas S, Aydin G, Ruiz FJ, Garcia-Martin MB, Obando-Posada DP, Segura-Vargas MA, Vasiliou VS, McHugh L, Höfer S, Baban A, Neto DD, da Silva AN, Monestès JL, Alvarez-Galvez J, Blarrina MP, Montesinos F, Salas SV, Őri D, Kleszcz B, Lappalainen R, Ivanović I, Gosar D, Dionne F, Merwin RM, Gloster AT, Karekla M, Kassianos AP. Patterns of Psychological Responses among the Public during the Early Phase of COVID-19: A Cross-Regional Analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:4143. [PMID: 33919888 PMCID: PMC8070933 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the mediation of psychological flexibility, prosociality and coping in the impacts of illness perceptions toward COVID-19 on mental health among seven regions. Convenience sampled online survey was conducted between April and June 2020 from 9130 citizens in 21 countries. Illness perceptions toward COVID-19, psychological flexibility, prosociality, coping and mental health, socio-demographics, lockdown-related variables and COVID-19 status were assessed. Results showed that psychological flexibility was the only significant mediator in the relationship between illness perceptions toward COVID-19 and mental health across all regions (all ps = 0.001-0.021). Seeking social support was the significant mediator across subgroups (all ps range = <0.001-0.005) except from the Hong Kong sample (p = 0.06) and the North and South American sample (p = 0.53). No mediation was found for problem-solving (except from the Northern European sample, p = 0.009). Prosociality was the significant mediator in the Hong Kong sample (p = 0.016) and the Eastern European sample (p = 0.008). These findings indicate that fostering psychological flexibility may help to mitigate the adverse mental impacts of COVID-19 across regions. Roles of seeking social support, problem-solving and prosociality vary across regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuen Yu Chong
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (W.T.C.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Wai Tong Chien
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (W.T.C.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Ho Yu Cheng
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (W.T.C.); (H.Y.C.)
| | - Demetris Lamnisos
- Department of Health Sciences, European University Cyprus, 1516 Nicosia, Cyprus;
| | - Jeļena Ļubenko
- Psychological Laboratory, Faculty of Public Health and Social Welfare, Riga Stradiņš University, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia;
| | - Giovambattista Presti
- Kore University Behavioral Lab (KUBeLab), Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, 94100 Enna, Italy; (G.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Valeria Squatrito
- Kore University Behavioral Lab (KUBeLab), Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, 94100 Enna, Italy; (G.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Marios Constantinou
- Department of Social Sciences, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Nicosia, 2417 Nicosia, Cyprus;
| | - Christiana Nicolaou
- Department of Nursing, Cyprus University of Technology, 3036 Limassol, Cyprus;
| | | | - Gökçen Aydin
- Department of Psychological Counseling and Guidance, Faculty of Education, Hasan Kalyoncu University, Gaziantep 27010, Turkey;
| | - Francisco J. Ruiz
- Department of Psychology, Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz, Bogotà 110231, Colombia; (F.J.R.); (M.A.S.-V.)
| | - Maria B. Garcia-Martin
- Faculty of Psychology, University of La Sabana, Chía 53753, Colombia; (M.B.G.-M.); (D.P.O.-P.)
| | - Diana P. Obando-Posada
- Faculty of Psychology, University of La Sabana, Chía 53753, Colombia; (M.B.G.-M.); (D.P.O.-P.)
| | - Miguel A. Segura-Vargas
- Department of Psychology, Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz, Bogotà 110231, Colombia; (F.J.R.); (M.A.S.-V.)
| | - Vasilis S. Vasiliou
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland;
| | - Louise McHugh
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Stefan Höfer
- Department of Medical Psychology, Innsbruck Medical University, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Adriana Baban
- Department of Psychology, Babeş-Bolyai University (UBB), 400095 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - David Dias Neto
- ISPA—Instituto Universitário, APPsyCI—Applied Psychology Research Center Capabilities & Inclusion, 1149-041 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Ana Nunes da Silva
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Alameda da Universidade, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-013 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | | | - Javier Alvarez-Galvez
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cadiz, Spain;
| | | | | | | | - Dorottya Őri
- Heim Pal National Pediatric Institute, Department of Mental Health, 1089 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Bartosz Kleszcz
- Bartosz Kleszcz Psychotherapy and Training, ul. Aleja Zwycięstwa 31/8, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland;
| | - Raimo Lappalainen
- Department of Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, FI-40014 Jyväskylä, Finland;
| | - Iva Ivanović
- Clinic for Psychiatry, Clinical Center of Montenegro, 81110 Podgorica, Montenegro;
| | - David Gosar
- Department of Child, Adolescent and Developmental Neurology, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Frederick Dionne
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada;
| | - Rhonda M. Merwin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA;
| | - Andrew T. Gloster
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Intervention Science, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Maria Karekla
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus; (M.K.); (A.P.K.)
| | - Angelos P. Kassianos
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus; (M.K.); (A.P.K.)
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Margraf J, Brailovskaia J, Schneider S. Adherence to behavioral Covid-19 mitigation measures strongly predicts mortality. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249392. [PMID: 33784361 PMCID: PMC8009358 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In the absence of vaccines or causal therapies, behavioral measures such as wearing face masks and maintaining social distance are central to fighting Covid-19. Yet, their benefits are often questioned by the population and the level of adherence to the measures is variable. We examined in representative samples across eight countries (N = 7,568) whether adherence reported around June 1, 2020 predicted the increase in Covid-19 mortality by August 31, 2020. Mortality increased 81.3% in low adherence countries (United States, Sweden, Poland, Russia), 8.4% in high adherence countries (Germany, France, Spain, United Kingdom). Across countries adherence and subsequent mortality increases correlated with r = -0.91. No African or South American countries were included in the present study, which limits the generalizability of the findings. While reported Covid-19 mortality is likely to be influenced by other factors, the almost tenfold difference in additional mortality is significant, and may inform decisions when choosing whether to prioritize individual liberty rights or health-protective measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Margraf
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Julia Brailovskaia
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Silvia Schneider
- Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Freysteinson WM, Celia T, Gilroy H, Gonzalez K. The experience of nursing leadership in a crisis: A hermeneutic phenomenological study. J Nurs Manag 2021; 29:1535-1543. [PMID: 33742517 DOI: 10.1111/jonm.13310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to understand nursing leaders' experience during the pandemic. BACKGROUND COVID-19 is a public health crisis that affects every nation in the world. METHODS Purposeful sampling was used to recruit 28 leaders in a large health care system. Data were collected via semi-structured audiotaped interviews. Results were analysed using hermeneutic phenomenology. RESULTS The structure in which leaders worked was described as: from the day-to-day grind to derailment and from manning the hospital to manning the frontlines. Five phenomenological themes were as follows: embodied leadership, navigating differently, trusting and earning trust, being the calm voice and envisioning the future. CONCLUSION Disaster policies and procedures are needed that will alleviate leadership angst, maximize nursing resources, heighten trust and enhance communications. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT In 2020, we witnessed a previously inconceivable media and public focus on the value of nursing care. Leaders can use this pivotal moment in time as a catalyst towards securing the support needed in planning for the next pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tania Celia
- Nelda C. Stark College of Nursing, Texas Woman's University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Heidi Gilroy
- Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kimberly Gonzalez
- Nelda C. Stark College of Nursing, Texas Woman's University, Houston, TX, USA
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Izhar R, Husain S, Tahir MA, Husain S, Hussain S. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of the Pakistani Population Regarding Facemasks During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Asia Pac J Public Health 2021; 33:299-302. [PMID: 33645264 DOI: 10.1177/1010539521997261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rubina Izhar
- Aziz Medical Center, Karachi, Pakistan.,Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Sonia Husain
- Aga Khan University Hospital Karimabad, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saba Hussain
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
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Young LE, Sidnam-Mauch E, Twyman M, Wang L, Xu JJ, Sargent M, Valente TW, Ferrara E, Fulk J, Monge P. Disrupting the COVID-19 Misinfodemic With Network Interventions: Network Solutions for Network Problems. Am J Public Health 2021; 111:514-519. [PMID: 33476229 PMCID: PMC7893353 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2020.306063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Amid the COVID-19 global pandemic, a highly troublesome influx of viral misinformation threatens to exacerbate the crisis through its deleterious effects on public health outcomes and health behavior decisions.This "misinfodemic" has ignited a surge of ongoing research aimed at characterizing its content, identifying its sources, and documenting its effects. Noticeably absent as of yet is a cogent strategy to disrupt misinformation.We start with the premise that the diffusion and persistence of COVID-19 misinformation are networked phenomena that require network interventions. To this end, we propose five classes of social network intervention to provide a roadmap of opportunities for disrupting misinformation dynamics during a global health crisis. Collectively, these strategies identify five distinct yet interdependent features of information environments that present viable opportunities for interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E. Young
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Emily Sidnam-Mauch
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Marlon Twyman
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Liyuan Wang
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Jackie Jingyi Xu
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Matthew Sargent
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Thomas W. Valente
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Emilio Ferrara
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Janet Fulk
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | - Peter Monge
- Lindsay E. Young, Emily Sidnam-Mauch, Marlon Twyman, Liyuan Wang, Jackie Jingyi Xu, Emilio Ferrara, Janet Fulk, and Peter Monge are with the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Thomas W. Valente is with the Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Matthew Sargent is with the RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
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Brailovskaia J, Margraf J. The relationship between burden caused by coronavirus (Covid-19), addictive social media use, sense of control and anxiety. Comput Human Behav 2021; 119:106720. [PMID: 33785982 PMCID: PMC7994028 DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.106720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of Covid-19 has significantly restricted people's everyday life and contributed to enhanced social media use (SMU). The present study investigated the relationship of burden caused by Covid-19 and addictive SMU. Data were assessed in a sample of 550 users of social media (age: M (SD) = 27.08 (6.74)) from Germany via online surveys in spring 2020. In a moderated mediation analysis, the positive association between burden and addictive SMU was significantly mediated by the level of perceived sense of control. Anxiety symptoms significantly moderated the relationship between sense of control and addictive SMU. Specifically, the link between both variables was significant only for medium and high levels of anxiety symptoms. The present findings disclose the mechanisms that can contribute to the development of addictive tendencies during the pandemic outbreak. Potential practical implications and ways of how the negative consequences of burden caused by Covid-19 might be prevented are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - J Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Júnior A, Dula J, Mahumane S, Koole O, Enosse S, Fodjo JNS, Colebunders R. Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures in Mozambique: Two Consecutive Online Surveys. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18031091. [PMID: 33530538 PMCID: PMC7908406 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We assessed adherence to government recommendations implemented shortly after the introduction of COVID-19 in Mozambique in March 2020, through two online cross-sectional surveys in April and June 2020. We quantified adherence to preventive measures by a composite score comprising of five measures: physical distancing, face mask use, hand hygiene, cough hygiene, and avoidance of touching the face. 3770 and 1115 persons participated in the first and second round respectively. Wearing face masks, regular handwashing and cough hygiene all reached compliance rates of over 90% while physical distancing and avoiding to touch the face reached a compliance rate of 80–90%. A multivariable model investigating factors associated with adherence found that being older, more educated, and belonging to the healthcare sector increased the odds for higher adherence. Private workers and retired people, respondents receiving COVID-19 information through social media, and those who reported flu-like symptoms were less likely to adhere. 6% of respondents reported flu-like symptoms which aligned with the WHO clinical definition of COVID-19, suggesting low level community transmission. In conclusion, most respondents in this online survey in Mozambique complied well with strategies to prevent COVID-19. Whether the good preventive behaviour explains the low grade COVID-19 transmission requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- António Júnior
- Direcção de Pesquisa em Saúde e Bem-Estar, Instituto Nacional de Saúde, 1120 Maputo, Mozambique; (J.D.); (S.M.); (S.E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +258-87-386-1820
| | - Janeth Dula
- Direcção de Pesquisa em Saúde e Bem-Estar, Instituto Nacional de Saúde, 1120 Maputo, Mozambique; (J.D.); (S.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Sérgio Mahumane
- Direcção de Pesquisa em Saúde e Bem-Estar, Instituto Nacional de Saúde, 1120 Maputo, Mozambique; (J.D.); (S.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Olivier Koole
- International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Programs (ICAP) at Columbia University, 1101 Maputo, Mozambique;
| | - Sónia Enosse
- Direcção de Pesquisa em Saúde e Bem-Estar, Instituto Nacional de Saúde, 1120 Maputo, Mozambique; (J.D.); (S.M.); (S.E.)
| | | | - Robert Colebunders
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (J.N.S.F.); (R.C.)
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Brailovskaia J, Cosci F, Mansueto G, Miragall M, Herrero R, Baños RM, Krasavtseva Y, Kochetkov Y, Margraf J. The association between depression symptoms, psychological burden caused by Covid-19 and physical activity: An investigation in Germany, Italy, Russia, and Spain. Psychiatry Res 2021; 295:113596. [PMID: 33261924 PMCID: PMC7688416 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The outbreak of Covid-19 required the re-organization of everyday life. While some people accepted this challenge, other experienced the current situation as a heavy burden that impedes the adaptation to the new life conditions. The present study investigated factors that can impact the level of burden caused by Covid-19. Burden, depression symptoms and frequency of physical activity (e.g., jogging, cycling) were assessed via online surveys in overall 1,931 people from four countries (Germany: N = 625; Italy: N = 936; Russia: N = 230; Spain: N = 140). Similar result patterns were found in all country-specific samples. Burden by Covid-19 was significantly positively associated with depression symptoms, while it was significantly negatively linked to physical activity. Moreover, physical activity buffered the association between depression symptoms and burden. The present cross-national findings emphasize the protective effect of physical activity specifically in times of Covid-19. This issue should be addressed in governmental programs to longitudinally protect mental and physical health and to enhance the willingness to adhere to the anti-Covid-19 measures among the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Brailovskaia
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
| | - Fiammetta Cosci
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Mansueto
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Marta Miragall
- Department of Personality, Evaluation, and Psychological Treatments, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rocío Herrero
- CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto Polibienestar, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain. Av. Blasco Ibáñez 21, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Rosa M. Baños
- Department of Personality, Evaluation, and Psychological Treatments, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Polibienestar, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain. Av. Blasco Ibáñez 21, Valencia, Spain
| | - Yulia Krasavtseva
- Department of Pedagogy and Medical Psychology, Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian; Department of Psychology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian; Center for Cognitive Therapy, Moscow, Russia.
| | | | - Jürgen Margraf
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
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