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Olavarria Coronado RD, Aranda Medina J, Chávez Sosa JV, Huancahuire‐Vega S. Association between the health vulnerability of family members and concern about the contagion of COVID-19 in Peruvian residents after the pandemic. J Gen Fam Med 2024; 25:146-153. [PMID: 38707699 PMCID: PMC11065152 DOI: 10.1002/jgf2.686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has created additional challenges for family health. Worry, fear, and anxiety associated with this disease can affect the perception of family health. The study's objective was to analyze the factors associated with health vulnerability of family members in the Peruvian population after pandemic. Methods Observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study. Sampling was nonprobabilistic. The sample consisted of 519 residents who met the following inclusion criteria: Peruvian resident, of both genders, over 18 years of age, who lives with their family, and who agrees to participate in the study. For data collection, the "SALUFAM" and "PRE-COVID-19" scales were used, which measure the health vulnerability of family members and concern about the contagion of COVID-19, respectively. Data collection was done between January and March, 2023. Results Living in the Coast region increases by 3.299 times (95% CI = 1.55-9.28; p = 0.003) the probability of lower family health vulnerability compared to residents from the Jungle region. In the same way, having a low concern about the contagion of COVID-19 increases 2.77 times (95% CI = 1.02-7.53; p = 0.044) the probability of less vulnerability to family health, unlike participants who are highly concerned about the contagion of COVID-19. Conclusions It should be necessary to design prevention and family health promotion strategies according to the geographical region; it is also essential to provide education on the risks and the importance of prevention measures for COVID-19, regardless of their initial level of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Salomón Huancahuire‐Vega
- Human Medicine SchoolUniversidad Peruana Unión (UPeU)LimaPeru
- General Directorate of ResearchUniversidad Peruana Unión (UPeU)LimaPeru
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Yamin N, Brown TA, Rosellini AJ. Longitudinal associations of chronic health stress and COVID-19-related anxiety among outpatients with anxiety and mood disorders. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023; 30:1020-1028. [PMID: 37073862 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic led to elevated levels of psychological distress on a global scale. Given that individuals with pre-existing physical conditions are at risk for worse COVID-19 outcomes, those dealing with the stress of physical health problems (including knowing someone with health problems) may experience more severe distress during the pandemic. METHODS Patients with emotional disorders who completed a diagnostic assessment in the 6 months prior to COVID-19 were surveyed in May-June 2020 on their emotional reactions to COVID-19 (N = 77). RESULTS Multiple linear regression was used to test the hypothesis that chronic stress due to having and knowing others with physical health problems would predict COVID-related worries and behaviours, holding pre-COVID levels of depression, anxiety and worry about health constant. Chronic stress surrounding the health of others was significantly associated with experiencing more severe COVID-related worry and behaviours. In comparison, chronic stress due to one's own health problems had weak and non-significant associations with COVID-related worries and behaviours. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that outpatients who report stress about surrounding loved one's health are at risk for experiencing more severe distress during a health pandemic and thus, may benefit from targeted outreach, assessment and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikka Yamin
- Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Timothy A Brown
- Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anthony J Rosellini
- Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Lee YH, Heo HH, Noh H, Jang DH, Choi YG, Jang WM, Lee JY. The association between the risk perceptions of COVID-19, trust in the government, political ideologies, and socio-demographic factors: A year-long cross-sectional study in South Korea. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280779. [PMID: 37343005 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Risk perception research, targeting the general public, necessitates the study of the multi-faceted aspects of perceived risk through a holistic approach. This study aimed to investigate the association between the two dimensions of risk perception of COVID-19, i.e., risk as a feeling and analysis, trust in the current government, political ideologies, and socio-demographic factors in South Korea. This study used a year-long repeated cross-sectional design, in which a national sample (n = 23,018) participated in 23 consecutive telephone surveys from February 2020 to February 2021. Most factors differed in the magnitude and direction of their relationships with the two dimensions of risk perception. However, trust in the current government, alone, delineated an association in the same direction for both dimensions, i.e., those with a lower level of trust exhibited higher levels of cognitive and affective risk perception. Although these results did not change significantly during the one-year observation period, they are related to the political interpretation of risk. This study revealed that affective and cognitive risk perceptions addressed different dimensions of risk perception. These findings could help governments and health authorities better understand the nature and mechanisms of public risk perception when implementing countermeasures and policies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yo Han Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Heo
- Institute for Future Public Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerim Noh
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Deok Hyun Jang
- Research Analytics & Communications, Gallup Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Geun Choi
- Department of Statistics, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Mo Jang
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government - Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Yong Lee
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Moukhyer M, Mahfouz MS, Habibullah MM, Abuhadi NH, Khamjan NA, Madkhali AM, Hakamy AO, Hamali HA, Hoque M, Lohani M, Mukhayer A. Evaluation of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Resulting Behavior Changes in Response to COVID-19 Among Students at the College of Applied Medical Sciences (CAMS), Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. J Multidiscip Healthc 2023; 16:1075-1084. [PMID: 37096238 PMCID: PMC10122493 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s405633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The emergence of COVID-19 posed a threat to millions of lives worldwide. The pandemic impacts extended to affect people's psychological well-being, resulting in significant behavioural change. This study was designed to assess the knowledge regarding COVID-19 precautions among the College of Applied Medical Science students at Jazan University and to evaluate the general, psychosocial, and behavioral changes due to COVID-19. Methods This is an observational study targeting 630 undergraduate students randomly selected during January 2020, using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using an online questionnaire. Linear regression models were used to evaluate the predictors of three outcome measures: knowledge, attitudes, and practice scores. Results Knowledge of COVID-19 revealed that the students with correct answers ranged from 48.9 to 95%. Furthermore, significant gender differences are found regarding shortness of breath, fatigue, persistent chest discomfort, headache, and malaise (p < 0.05). Knowledge scores differed significantly across gender and academic level (p < 0.05) and so does attitude scores (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between practice scores according to socio-demographic background (p > 0.05). The linear regression model showed that females had significantly higher knowledge, attitudes, and practice scores (p < 0.05) as well as those within the 21-23 age group and above (p < 0.05). Students residing in urban and semi-urban places had significantly higher scores for knowledge, attitudes, and practice (p < 0.05). Conclusion The results demonstrated moderate knowledge about COVID-19 among study participants, with significant differences between the responses of males and females and among the urban and rural populations. Outcomes suggest the need for interventions to bridge students' knowledge about COVID-19 and practice gaps. Students were concerned about basic life amenities and the inability to provide for their dear ones regarding behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Moukhyer
- Emergency Medical Services, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Public Health Programs, School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Correspondence: Mohamed Moukhyer, Tel +966-568878291, Email
| | - Mohamed Salih Mahfouz
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Nouf Hussain Abuhadi
- Diagnostic Radiology Technology Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nizar A Khamjan
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aymen M Madkhali
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali O Hakamy
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A Hamali
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazharul Hoque
- Emergency Medical Services, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohtashim Lohani
- Emergency Medical Services, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aziza Mukhayer
- Faculty of Medicine, Ahfad University for Women, Omdurman, Sudan
- Department of Health Promotion, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherland
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5
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Al Mamun A, Hayat N, Dieu HTM, Zainol NR, Salameh AA. COVID-19 preventive behavior among university students in Southeast Asia: Effects of knowledge, concern, awareness, and perceived risk. Front Public Health 2022; 10:958021. [PMID: 36159302 PMCID: PMC9500200 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.958021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The persistent rise of pandemics across the globe in recent times has led to the prescription of several collaborative preventive strategies to reduce the effect that the pandemic has on public health. Consistent monitoring and surveillance appear to be the only available approach to detecting and classifying the issues of public health threats. Global pandemic threats demand public co-operation to take preventive actions at a personal level so that the risk of infectious diseases can be contained. Said that, this study explored the influence of awareness of precaution measures (APM), concerns about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (CAC), knowledge of COVID-19 (KOC), and perceived risk (PRK) on preventive behavior (PRB), as well as the effect of age and gender on the relationships among the studied variables. Quantitative data were collected from 551 university students across Malaysia and Vietnam through field survey and online survey, respectively. The data collection was performed from 13 March to 23 March 2020. Partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed for data analysis. The multiple group analysis (MGA) technique was applied to compare the data retrieved from the respondents based on age and gender. The results revealed that APM, CAC, KOC, and PRK on PRB significantly influenced PRB toward COVID-19. In light of the two personal factors, age and gender, significant variances were noted for age and KOC, while PRK on PRB on the PRB toward COVID-19. Based on the study outcomes, APM emerged as the most significant predictor of PRB, followed by PRK on PRB, and CAC. Since a large fraction of the world reside in rural areas and have high-level interaction with animals, the provision of education at all level can harness the attitude to adopt PRB toward COVID-19. As such, policymakers need to work with the young generation so that the latter may serve as change agents to spread the message of taking precautions and adopting effective PRB toward COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Al Mamun
- UKM - Graduate School of Business, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia,*Correspondence: Abdullah Al Mamun ;
| | - Naeem Hayat
- Global Entrepreneurship Research and Innovation Centre, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Huynh Thi My Dieu
- UFM Graduate School, University of Finance and Marketing, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Noor R. Zainol
- Global Entrepreneurship Research and Innovation Centre, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Anas A. Salameh
- College of Business Administration, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
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6
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Li H, Yuan K, Sun YK, Zheng YB, Xu YY, Su SZ, Zhang YX, Zhong Y, Wang YJ, Tian SS, Gong YM, Fan TT, Lin X, Gobat N, Wong SYS, Chan EYY, Yan W, Sun SW, Ran MS, Bao YP, Shi J, Lu L. Efficacy and practice of facemask use in general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:49. [PMID: 35105851 PMCID: PMC8804079 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01814-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, respiratory infections, including SARS, HINI and the currently spreading COVID-19, caused by various viruses such as influenza and coronavirus have seriously threatened human health. It has generated inconsistent recommendations on the mandatory use of facemasks across countries on a population level due to insufficient evidence on the efficacy of facemask use among the general population. This meta-analysis aimed to explore (1) the efficacy of facemask use on preventing respiratory infections, and (2) the perceptions, intentions, and practice about facemask use among the general population worldwide. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane, bioRxiv, and medRxiv databases since inception to August 17, 2020. From 21,341 records identified, eight RCTs on facemask in preventing infections and 78 studies on perception, intention, and practice of facemask use among the general population were included in the analysis. The meta-analysis of RCTs found a significant protective effect of facemask intervention (OR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.71-0.99; I2 = 0%). This protective effect was even more pronounced when the intervention duration was more than two weeks (OR = 0.76; 95% CI = 0.66-0.88; I2 = 0%). The meta-analysis of observational studies on perception, intention, and practice on facemask use showed that 71% of respondents perceived facemasks to be effective for infection prevention, 68% of respondents would wear facemasks, and 54% of respondents wore facemasks for preventing respiratory infections. Differences in perception, intention, and practice behavior of facemask use in different regions may be related to the impact of respiratory infections, regional culture, and policies. The governments and relevant organizations should make effort to reduce the barriers in the use of facemasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Kun Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Bo Zheng
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Ying Xu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Zhen Su
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Xin Zhang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhong
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Jie Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shan-Shan Tian
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Miao Gong
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Teng-Teng Fan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Nina Gobat
- Nuffield Dept of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Samuel Yeung Shan Wong
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Emily Ying Yang Chan
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, School of Public Health and Primary Care, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sha tin, Hong Kong
| | - Wei Yan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Wei Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Mao-Sheng Ran
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yan-Ping Bao
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
| | - Lin Lu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit (No.2018RU006), Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Centre for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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7
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Bi X, Zhang Q, Fan K, Tang S, Guan H, Gao X, Cui Y, Ma Y, Wu Q, Hao Y, Ning N, Liu C. Risk Culture and COVID-19 Protective Behaviors: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Residents in China. Front Public Health 2021; 9:686705. [PMID: 34790640 PMCID: PMC8592257 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.686705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread across the world. However, our understanding of the public responses, in particular in adopting protective behaviors, has been limited. The current study aimed to determine the level of protective behaviors adopted by the residents in China and its association with their cultural attributes. A national cross-sectional online survey was conducted in mainland China from 4th to 13th August 2020. Protective behaviors were assessed as a summed score (ranging from 0 to 40) measured by ten items. The self-report tendency of study participants toward the four cultural attributes (individualism, egalitarianism, fatalism, hierarchy) was rated on a seven-point Likert scale. A total of 17651 respondents returned a valid questionnaire, representing 47.9% of those who accessed the online survey. Most (89.8%) respondents aged between 18 and 45 years in the age range of and 47.7% were male. High levels of protective behaviors (34.04 ± 5.78) were reported. The respondents had high scores in the cultural attributes of hierarchy (Median = 5) and egalitarianism (Median = 5), compared with low scores in individualism (Median = 1) and fatalism (Median = 1). High levels of protective behaviors were associated a higher tendency toward egalitarianism (AOR = 2.90, 95% CI 2.67–3.15) and hierarchy (AOR = 1.66, 95% CI 1.53–1.81) and a low tendency toward fatalism (AOR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.63–1.97) and individualism (AOR = 2.62, 95% CI 2.41–2.85). The cultural attributes explained 17.3% of the variations in the protective behavioral scores. In conclusion, the adoption of protective behaviors is associated a risk culture characterized by high levels of hierarchy and egalitarianism and low levels of individualism and fatalism. Government actions and communication strategies need to adapt to the cultural characteristics of their target audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejing Bi
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qiao Zhang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Kaisheng Fan
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - SiYu Tang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - HanWen Guan
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - XueQin Gao
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yu Cui
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yi Ma
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - QunHong Wu
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - YanHua Hao
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Ning Ning
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chaojie Liu
- School of Psychology & Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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8
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Barriers and Drivers of Public Preventive Behavioral Responses to COVID-19 Outbreak: Evidence from Iran. HEALTH SCOPE 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/jhealthscope.114619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: When an epidemic outspreads, the society engagement seems essential to make sure of the population’s preparedness for taking individual precautions. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to examine public’s preventive behavioral responses to protective behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide a description of conceptual frameworks for deeper understanding of these behaviors. Methods: A self-administrated questionnaire was used in this online survey through social networks during March 19th to 26th, 2020 (n = 2550). A Likert scoring scale was employed to investigate barriers and drivers affecting the participants’ preventive behaviors. Using personal protective equipment and good hand hygiene practices were identified as person-based measures. Social distancing and the restriction of social and economic activities during the past two months were determined as community-based measures. Univariate logistic regression and multiple - logistic regression were used to identify and assess influencing factors. Results: The study results indicated that 2426 (95.1%) of the participants intended to restrict their social and economic activities, and 1968 (72.2%), 1637 (64.2%), and 2492 (97.7%) persons intended to observe social distancing, use personal protective equipment, and have good hand hygiene, respectively. The most important barriers for preventive behaviors were the lack of risk perception, economic and financial barriers, lack of access, and cultural barriers, respectively. The perceived benefit was among the most significant driver. Intention for person-based measures was less affected by demographic and economic characteristics in comparison with community-based measures. Conclusions: Considering the substantial impact of preventive behaviors on managing COVID-19 epidemic, this study findings have remarkable implications for governments to manage future communications as well as interventions during this ongoing outbreak and subsequent national risk events.
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Education Attainment, Intelligence and COVID-19: A Mendelian Randomization Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10214870. [PMID: 34768390 PMCID: PMC8584527 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10214870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Evidence of socioeconomic inequality in COVID-19-related outcomes is emerging, with a higher risk of infection and mortality observed among individuals with lower education attainment. We aimed to evaluate the potential interventions against COVID-19 from the socioeconomic perspective, including improvement in education and intelligence. Methods: With a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach using summary statistics from the largest genome-wide association meta-analysis, univariable analysis was adopted to evaluate the total causal effects of genetically determined education attainment and intelligence on COVID-19 outcomes. Multivariable analysis was performed to dissect the potential mechanisms. Results: Genetic predisposition to higher education attainment by 1 SD (4.2 years) was independently associated with reduced risk of COVID-19 severity (OR = 0.508 [95% CI: 0.417–0.617]; p < 0.001). Genetically higher education attainment also lowered the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization (0.685 [0.593–0.791]; p < 0.001), but the association was attenuated after adjustment for beta estimates of intelligence in multivariable analysis. Genetically higher intelligence was associated with reduced risk of COVID-19 hospitalization (0.780 [0.655–0.930]; p = 0.006), with attenuation of association after adjustment for education attainment. Null association was observed for genetically determined education attainment and intelligence with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conclusion: Education may act independently and jointly with intelligence in improving the COVID-19 outcomes. Improving education may potentially alleviate the COVID-19-related health inequality.
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10
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Lee H, Lee H, Song KH, Kim ES, Park JS, Jung J, Ahn S, Jeong EK, Park H, Kim HB. Impact of Public Health Interventions on Seasonal Influenza Activity During the COVID-19 Outbreak in Korea. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e132-e140. [PMID: 32472687 PMCID: PMC7314207 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 was introduced in Korea early and experienced a large outbreak in mid-February. We aimed to review the public health interventions used during the COVID-19 outbreak and describe the impact on seasonal influenza activity in Korea. Methods National response strategies and public health interventions, along with daily COVID-19 confirmed cases in Korea were reviewed during the pandemic. National influenza surveillance data were compared between seven sequential seasons. Characteristics of each season, including the rate of influenza-like illness (ILI), duration of epidemic, date of termination of epidemic, distribution of influenza virus strain and hospitalization were analyzed. Results After various public health interventions including enforced public education on hand hygiene, cough etiquette and staying at home with respiratory symptoms, universal mask use in public places, refrain from non-essential social activities and school closure, the duration of the influenza epidemic in 2019/2020 decreased by 6-12 weeks and the influenza activity peak rated 49.8 ILI/1,000 visits compared to 71.9-86.2 ILI/1,000 visits of previous seasons. During the period of enforced social distancing from week 9 to 17 of 2020, influenza hospitalization cases were 11.9-26.9-fold lower compared with previous seasons. During the 2019/2020 season, influenza B accounted for only 4%, in contrast with previous seasons in which influenza B accounted for 26.6% to 54.9% of all cases. Conclusions Efforts to activate high level national response not only led to a decrease in COVID-19, but also substantial decrease in seasonal influenza activity. Interventions applied to control COVID-19 may serve as useful strategies for prevention and control of influenza in upcoming seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunju Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.,Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Heeyoung Lee
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Center for Public Health, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Ho Song
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Eu Suk Kim
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Su Park
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongtak Jung
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyeon Ahn
- Department of Medical Research Collaborating Center, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Kyeong Jeong
- Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyekyung Park
- Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Bin Kim
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
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11
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Cai G, Lin Y, Lu Y, He F, Morita K, Yamamoto T, Aoyagi K, Taguri T, Hu Z, Alias H, Danaee M, Wong LP. Behavioural responses and anxiety symptoms during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Japan: A large scale cross-sectional study. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 136:296-305. [PMID: 33631655 PMCID: PMC7880847 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study explored the behavioural responses and anxiety symptoms of the general adult population in Japan during the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. METHODS A web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between 12th and May 13, 2020. Quota sampling was used to attain equal gender and age distributions representative of the Japanese population. RESULTS A total of 4127 complete responses were analysed. Higher educational level (B = 0.045, p = 0.002) and household income (B = 0.04, p = 0.009) were associated with a higher increase in preventive measures when comparing before and after the state of emergency was declared. The highest reported social anxiety was a feeling of fear (65.6%), followed by embarrassment (43.8%), keeping infection a secret (41.3%), avoidance (41.3%), and stigma (25.5%). A total of 86.1% of the respondents reported moderate to severe anxiety. The partial least square-based structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) revealed that being female has the greatest effect (B = 0.246, p < 0.0001) on higher current preventive measures, followed by social anxiety (B = 0.119; p = 0.001) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores (B = 0.153; p < 0.001). Perceived susceptibility (B = 0.033, p = 0.020), knowing someone who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 (B = 0.097, p < 0.001), higher income (B = 0.079, p < 0.001) and educational level (B = 0.045; p = 0.004) all had a small but significant effect on influencing levels of preventive measures. CONCLUSIONS A moderate level of preventive practices found in this study indicates the need to encourage behavioural change to limit the spread of the coronavirus. The provision of mental health services is warranted as anxiety symptoms are prevalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoxi Cai
- Department of International Health and Medical Anthropology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan,Department of Public Health, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan,Nagasaki Prefectural Institute of Environment and Public Health, Nagasaki, 856-0026, Japan
| | - Yulan Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Yixiao Lu
- Department of Public Health, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Fei He
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China
| | - Kouichi Morita
- Department of Virology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Taro Yamamoto
- Department of International Health and Medical Anthropology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Aoyagi
- Department of Public Health, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Toshitsugu Taguri
- Nagasaki Prefectural Institute of Environment and Public Health, Nagasaki, 856-0026, Japan
| | - Zhijian Hu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Haridah Alias
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mahmoud Danaee
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Li Ping Wong
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian Province, China; Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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12
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Natnael T, Alemnew Y, Berihun G, Abebe M, Andualem A, Ademe S, Tegegne B, Adane M. Facemask wearing to prevent COVID-19 transmission and associated factors among taxi drivers in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town, Ethiopia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247954. [PMID: 33711038 PMCID: PMC7954338 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) has pointed out that urban taxi drivers and their passengers are at higher risk of transmitting coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) due to frequent contact among many people. Facemask wearing is one of the preventive measures recommended to control the transmission of the virus. A lack of evidence of the proportion of facemask wearing among taxi drivers and associated factors in Ethiopia, including Dessie City and Kombolcha Town, hinders the design of targeted interventions to advocate for facemask use. This study was designed to address this gap. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 417 taxi drivers in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town from July to August, 2020. The study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique after proportionally allocating the sample size from the total number of taxi drivers working in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town. The data were collected by trained data collectors using a structured questionnaire and an on-the-spot observational checklist. The collected data were checked, coded and entered to EpiData version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 for data cleaning and analysis. Bivariate (Crude Odds Ratio [COR]) and multivariable (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]) logistic regression analyses were employed using 95% CI (confidence interval). From bivariate logistic regression analysis, variables with p-value < 0.250 were retained into multivariable logistic regression analysis. Then, from the multivariable analysis, variables with p-value < 0.050 were declared as factors significantly associated with facemask wearing among taxi drivers in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town. MAIN FINDINGS The proportion of taxi drivers who wore a facemask was 54.68% [95%CI: 50.10-59.7%]. The majority (58.3%) of drivers were using cloth facemasks, followed by N95 facemasks (24.5%) and surgical facemasks (17.3%). Out of the total 417 taxi drivers, more than two-thirds (69.8%) of them had a good knowledge about COVID-19 and 67.6% of taxi drivers had a positive attitude towards taking precautions against transmission of COVID-19. Three-fourths (74.1%) of the taxi drivers believed that wearing a facemask could prevent COVID-19. More than half (52.5%) felt discomfort when wearing a facemask. Almost three-fourths (72.2%) of taxi drivers felt that the presence of local government pressure helped them to wear a facemask. We found that marital status [AOR = 3.14, 95%CI: 1.97-5.01], fear of the disease [AOR = 2.1, 95%CI: 1.28-3.47], belief in the effectiveness of a facemask [AOR = 5.6, 95%CI: 3.1-10.16] and feeling government pressure [AOR = 3.6, 95%CI: 2.16-6.13] were factors significantly associated with wearing a facemask. CONCLUSION We found that the proportion of facemask wearers among taxi drivers was relatively low in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town. In order to increase that number, government bodies should work aggressively to encourage more taxi drivers to wear a facemask. We also recommend that government and non-government organizations work very closely together to implement strategies that promote facemask use, including increasing the availability of inexpensive facemasks, and monitoring and controlling facemask use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarikuwa Natnael
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Yeshiwork Alemnew
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Gete Berihun
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Masresha Abebe
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Atsedemariam Andualem
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Sewunet Ademe
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Belachew Tegegne
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Metadel Adane
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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13
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Yang TU, Noh JY, Song JY, Cheong HJ, Kim WJ. How lessons learned from the 2015 Middle East respiratory syndrome outbreak affected the response to coronavirus disease 2019 in the Republic of Korea. Korean J Intern Med 2021; 36:271-285. [PMID: 32872738 PMCID: PMC7969075 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2020.371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Republic of Korea (ROK) experienced a public health crisis due to Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) in 2015 and is currently going through the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Lessons learned from the disastrous MERS outbreak were ref lected in the preparedness system, and the readiness capabilities that were subsequently developed enabled the country to successfully flatten the epidemic curve of COVID-19 in late February and March 2020. In this review, we summarize and compare the epidemiology and response of the ROK to the 2015 MERS outbreak and the COVID-19 epidemic in early 2020. We emphasize that, because further COVID-19 waves seem inevitable, it is urgent to develop comprehensive preparedness and response plans for the worst-case scenarios of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously strengthening healthcare capacity to endure the peak demand and implementing smart strategies to sustain social distancing and public hygiene are necessary until safe and effective therapeutics and vaccines against COVID-19 are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Un Yang
- Department of Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ji Yun Noh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joon-Young Song
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Jin Cheong
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woo Joo Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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14
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Gokmen Y, Baskici C, Ercil Y. The impact of national culture on the increase of COVID-19: A cross-country analysis of European countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INTERCULTURAL RELATIONS : IJIR 2021; 81:1-8. [PMID: 33518841 PMCID: PMC7833793 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijintrel.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, countries have been fighting with increasing momentum against outbreaks. This struggle requires the effective implementation of several measures that are required in medical science. However, the cultural characteristics of each society prevent these measures from being applied in the same way globally. One area in which social scientists have not applied much effort is observing the impact of countries' cultural characteristics in the fight against outbreaks. Therefore, this study aims to determine whether cultural differences among countries have an impact on their fight against outbreaks. This study uses the COVID-19 pandemic's total cases and selected European countries' cultural dimension scores as data. Due to the differences in the measurement units of cultural and outbreak variables, a stepwise multiple logarithmic regression analysis is preferred to select the proper regression model. The results have shown that power distance has a significant and negative effect on the increase rate of the total COVID-19 cases per million (IRTCCPM). In addition, the results have demonstrated that both individualism and indulgence have significant and positive effects on IRTCCPM, at the 95 % confidence level. However, the hypotheses concerning the impacts of masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, and long-term orientation on the IRTCCPM are rejected at the α = 0.05 level. In light of the findings of this study, it can be asserted that countries act in harmony with their cultural characteristics in the formal or informal practices of their fight against outbreaks. The contributions of the study can be discussed in academic and practical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunus Gokmen
- The Department of Industry and System Engineering, National Defence University, Turkish Military Academy, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cigdem Baskici
- Başkent University, Department of Healthcare Management, Center for Strategy and Technology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Ercil
- Başkent University, Center for Strategy and Technology, Ankara, Turkey
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15
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Monteiro KS, Santino TA, Jácome AC, Silva B, Patino CM, Chaves G, Alchieri JC, Leite S, Luz KG, Guerra RO, Mendonça KMPPD. Barriers and facilitators to populational adherence to prevention and control measures of COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases: a rapid qualitative evidence synthesis protocol. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e045529. [PMID: 33514584 PMCID: PMC7849319 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The current COVID-19 pandemic has increased the need for populational adherence to measures for the prevention and control of respiratory infectious diseases. However, their effectiveness depends on the population's preventive behaviour, which may be divergent from public policies. Therefore, this study aims to summarise and evaluate the evidence on barriers and facilitators to populational adherence to prevention and control measures in COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will search on MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO for studies focusing on adults receiving protective behaviour recommendations to combat COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases. The searches will be carried out from database's inception to the present. We will include studies that use qualitative methods in their data collection and analysis and studies that use mixed methods if they include any qualitative methods of analysis. Studies published in English, Portuguese and Spanish will be included. Two review authors will independently screen the studies for inclusion and extract data. We will assess the quality of the included studies using the Critical Skills Appraisal Programme tool. For the assessment of the confidence in the synthesised findings, we will use the GRADE-Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research. Data analysis will be conducted using the best-fit framework approach based on adapted dimensions from the Health Belief Model and the Behaviour Change Wheel. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study will be conducted on published evidence, and thus, no ethical approval is required. The findings of this rapid qualitative evidence synthesis will be disseminated to academic audiences, health policy-makers and the general population. We will publish the results in peer-reviewed journals, present our findings in conferences, and disseminate results via social media. We also aim to present the research findings in plain language and disseminate the knowledge to the general population to increase public interest. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020205750.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolinne Souza Monteiro
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairi, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Thayla Amorim Santino
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Ada Cristina Jácome
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Baldomero Silva
- Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of Delta do Parnaíba, Parnaíba, Brazil
| | - Cecilia M Patino
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - João Carlos Alchieri
- Department of Psychology, Graduate Program in Science, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Sarah Leite
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Kleber Giovanni Luz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Ricardo O Guerra
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
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Atchison C, Bowman LR, Vrinten C, Redd R, Pristerà P, Eaton J, Ward H. Early perceptions and behavioural responses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey of UK adults. BMJ Open 2021. [PMID: 33397669 DOI: 10.1101/2020.04.01.20050039v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine risk perceptions and behavioural responses of the UK adult population during the early phase of the COVID-19 epidemic in the UK. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey. SETTING Conducted with a nationally representative sample of UK adults within 48 hours of the UK Government advising the public to stop non-essential contact with others and all unnecessary travel. PARTICIPANTS 2108 adults living in the UK aged 18 years and over. Response rate was 84.3% (2108/2500). Data collected between 17 March and 18 March 2020. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Descriptive statistics for all survey questions, including number of respondents and weighted percentages. Robust Poisson regression used to identify sociodemographic variation in: (1) adoption of social distancing measures, (2) ability to work from home, and (3) ability and (4) willingness to self-isolate. RESULTS Overall, 1992 (94.2%) respondents reported at least one preventive measure: 85.8% washed their hands with soap more frequently; 56.5% avoided crowded areas and 54.5% avoided social events. Adoption of social distancing measures was higher in those aged over 70 years compared with younger adults aged 18-34 years (adjusted relative risk/aRR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1 to 1.5). Those with lowest household income were three times less likely to be able to work from home (aRR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.45) and less likely to be able to self-isolate (aRR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.88 to 0.96). Ability to self-isolate was also lower in black and minority ethnic groups (aRR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.79 to 1.0). Willingness to self-isolate was high across all respondents. CONCLUSIONS Ability to adopt and comply with certain non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) is lower in the most economically disadvantaged in society. Governments must implement appropriate social and economic policies to mitigate this. By incorporating these differences in NPIs among socioeconomic subpopulations into mathematical models of COVID-19 transmission dynamics, our modelling of epidemic outcomes and response to COVID-19 can be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Atchison
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Leigh Robert Bowman
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Vrinten
- Centre for Health Economics & Policy Innovation, Department of Economics & Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rozlyn Redd
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Philippa Pristerà
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey Eaton
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Helen Ward
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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17
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Atchison C, Bowman LR, Vrinten C, Redd R, Pristerà P, Eaton J, Ward H. Early perceptions and behavioural responses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey of UK adults. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e043577. [PMID: 33397669 PMCID: PMC7783373 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine risk perceptions and behavioural responses of the UK adult population during the early phase of the COVID-19 epidemic in the UK. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey. SETTING Conducted with a nationally representative sample of UK adults within 48 hours of the UK Government advising the public to stop non-essential contact with others and all unnecessary travel. PARTICIPANTS 2108 adults living in the UK aged 18 years and over. Response rate was 84.3% (2108/2500). Data collected between 17 March and 18 March 2020. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Descriptive statistics for all survey questions, including number of respondents and weighted percentages. Robust Poisson regression used to identify sociodemographic variation in: (1) adoption of social distancing measures, (2) ability to work from home, and (3) ability and (4) willingness to self-isolate. RESULTS Overall, 1992 (94.2%) respondents reported at least one preventive measure: 85.8% washed their hands with soap more frequently; 56.5% avoided crowded areas and 54.5% avoided social events. Adoption of social distancing measures was higher in those aged over 70 years compared with younger adults aged 18-34 years (adjusted relative risk/aRR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1 to 1.5). Those with lowest household income were three times less likely to be able to work from home (aRR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.45) and less likely to be able to self-isolate (aRR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.88 to 0.96). Ability to self-isolate was also lower in black and minority ethnic groups (aRR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.79 to 1.0). Willingness to self-isolate was high across all respondents. CONCLUSIONS Ability to adopt and comply with certain non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) is lower in the most economically disadvantaged in society. Governments must implement appropriate social and economic policies to mitigate this. By incorporating these differences in NPIs among socioeconomic subpopulations into mathematical models of COVID-19 transmission dynamics, our modelling of epidemic outcomes and response to COVID-19 can be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Atchison
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Leigh Robert Bowman
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Vrinten
- Centre for Health Economics & Policy Innovation, Department of Economics & Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rozlyn Redd
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Philippa Pristerà
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey Eaton
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Helen Ward
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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18
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Atchison C, Bowman LR, Vrinten C, Redd R, Pristerà P, Eaton J, Ward H. Early perceptions and behavioural responses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey of UK adults. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e043577. [PMID: 33397669 DOI: 10.1101/2020.04.01.20050039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine risk perceptions and behavioural responses of the UK adult population during the early phase of the COVID-19 epidemic in the UK. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey. SETTING Conducted with a nationally representative sample of UK adults within 48 hours of the UK Government advising the public to stop non-essential contact with others and all unnecessary travel. PARTICIPANTS 2108 adults living in the UK aged 18 years and over. Response rate was 84.3% (2108/2500). Data collected between 17 March and 18 March 2020. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Descriptive statistics for all survey questions, including number of respondents and weighted percentages. Robust Poisson regression used to identify sociodemographic variation in: (1) adoption of social distancing measures, (2) ability to work from home, and (3) ability and (4) willingness to self-isolate. RESULTS Overall, 1992 (94.2%) respondents reported at least one preventive measure: 85.8% washed their hands with soap more frequently; 56.5% avoided crowded areas and 54.5% avoided social events. Adoption of social distancing measures was higher in those aged over 70 years compared with younger adults aged 18-34 years (adjusted relative risk/aRR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1 to 1.5). Those with lowest household income were three times less likely to be able to work from home (aRR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.45) and less likely to be able to self-isolate (aRR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.88 to 0.96). Ability to self-isolate was also lower in black and minority ethnic groups (aRR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.79 to 1.0). Willingness to self-isolate was high across all respondents. CONCLUSIONS Ability to adopt and comply with certain non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) is lower in the most economically disadvantaged in society. Governments must implement appropriate social and economic policies to mitigate this. By incorporating these differences in NPIs among socioeconomic subpopulations into mathematical models of COVID-19 transmission dynamics, our modelling of epidemic outcomes and response to COVID-19 can be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Atchison
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Leigh Robert Bowman
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Vrinten
- Centre for Health Economics & Policy Innovation, Department of Economics & Public Policy, Imperial College Business School, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rozlyn Redd
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Philippa Pristerà
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey Eaton
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Helen Ward
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics (J-IDEA), School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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19
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Kishimoto K, Bun S, Shin JH, Takada D, Morishita T, Kunisawa S, Imanaka Y. Early impact of school closure and social distancing for COVID-19 on the number of inpatients with childhood non-COVID-19 acute infections in Japan. Eur J Pediatr 2021; 180:2871-2878. [PMID: 33791861 PMCID: PMC8012019 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-04043-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Many countries have implemented school closures as part of social distancing measures intended to control the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to assess the early impact of nationwide school closure (March-May 2020) and social distancing for COVID-19 on the number of inpatients with major childhood infectious diseases in Japan. Using data from the Diagnosis Procedure Combination system in Japan, we identified patients aged 15 years or younger with admissions for a diagnosis of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI), influenza, gastrointestinal infection (GII), appendicitis, urinary tract infection (UTI), or skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) between July 2018 and June 2020. Changes in the trend of the weekly number of inpatients between the two periods were assessed using interrupted time-series analysis. A total of 75,053 patients in 210 hospitals were included. The overall weekly number of inpatients was decreased by 52.5%, 77.4%, and by 83.4% in the last week of March, April, and May 2020, respectively, when compared on a year-on-year basis. The estimated impact was a reduction of 581 (standard error 42.9) inpatients per week in the post-school-closure period (p < 0.001). The main part of the reduction was for pre-school children. Remarkable decreases in the number of inpatients with URI, LRTI, and GII were observed, while there were relatively mild changes in the other groups.Conclusion: We confirmed a marked reduction in the number of inpatients with childhood non-COVID-19 acute infections in the post-school-closure period. What is Known: • Most countries have implemented social distancing measures to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). • A large decrease in pediatric emergency visits has been reported from several countries after the social distancing. What is New: • Based on administrative claims data, a marked reduction in the number of inpatients for childhood non-COVID-19 acute infections was found in the post-school-closure period in Japan. • The magnitude of the reduction was different between the disease groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Kishimoto
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan
| | - Seiko Bun
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan ,Department of Pharmacy, National Center for Child Health and Development Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jung-ho Shin
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan
| | - Daisuke Takada
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan
| | - Tetsuji Morishita
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan
| | - Susumu Kunisawa
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan
| | - Yuichi Imanaka
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
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20
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Ning L, Niu J, Bi X, Yang C, Liu Z, Wu Q, Ning N, Liang L, Liu A, Hao Y, Gao L, Liu C. The impacts of knowledge, risk perception, emotion and information on citizens' protective behaviors during the outbreak of COVID-19: a cross-sectional study in China. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1751. [PMID: 33225934 PMCID: PMC7681179 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09892-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individual protective behaviors play an important role in the control of the spread of infectious diseases. This study aimed to investigate the adoption of protective behaviors by Chinese citizens amid the COVID-19 outbreak and its associated factors. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey was conducted from 22 January to 14 February 2020 through Wenjuanxing platform, measuring their knowledge, risk perception, negative emotion, response to official communication, and protective behaviors in relation to COVID-19. A total of 3008 people completed the questionnaire, of which 2845 were valid questionnaires. RESULTS On average, 71% of respondents embraced protective behaviors. Those who made no error in the knowledge test (AOR = 1.77, p < 0.001) perceived the high severity of the epidemic (AOR = 1.90, p < 0.001), had high negative emotion (AOR = 1.36, p = 0.005), reported good health (AOR = 1.94, p < 0.001), paid high attention to the governmental media (AOR = 4.16, p < 0.001) and trusted the governmental media (AOR = 1.97, p < 0.001) were more likely to embrace protective behaviors after adjustments for variations in potential confounding factors. Women and older people were also more likely to embrace protective behaviors. No regional or educational differences were found in the adoption of protective behaviors. CONCLUSION The majority of Chinese citizens embraced protective behaviors. Higher levels of protective behaviors are associated with higher knowledge, perceived severity, negative emotion, and attention to and trust in the official governmental media. Official governmental communication is the largest single predictor of protective behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangwen Ning
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jinyu Niu
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xuejing Bi
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Harbin Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, China
| | - Ze Liu
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qunhong Wu
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Ning Ning
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Libo Liang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Aishu Liu
- School of Education Science, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanhua Hao
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| | - Lijun Gao
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| | - Chaojie Liu
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
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21
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Ye Y, Wang R, Feng D, Wu R, Li Z, Long C, Feng Z, Tang S. The Recommended and Excessive Preventive Behaviors during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Community-Based Online Survey in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17196953. [PMID: 32977538 PMCID: PMC7579150 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17196953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 presents unprecedented challenges to the global public health response. Preventive behaviors and keeping social distance are regarded as compelling ways to prevent COVID-19. This study focused on the sociological and psychological factors associated with proper and excessive preventive behaviors of the COVID-19 outbreak in China. For the sample, we collected the data of 4788 participants who were surveyed between 4 April and 15 April 2020 from eight provinces in China. This study designed a self-filled questionnaire that included demographic information, six components of the Health Belief Model, and target preventive behaviors. Descriptive analysis, Chi-square test, logistic regression analysis, Mantel-Haenszel hierarchical analysis, and propensity score matching were employed in this study. The results showed that 54.7% of the participants had adequate basic prevention, 63.6% of the participants had adequate advanced prevention, and 5.8% of the participants practiced excessive prevention. The elder participants were less likely to engage in proper preventive behaviors. Perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, and knowledge levels were associated with preventive behaviors. Excessive preventive behaviors in high-risk groups with suspected symptoms were associated with their extreme psychological condition, while the support from the community and family plays an important role in avoiding these behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisheng Ye
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China; (Y.Y.); (R.W.); (C.L.)
- Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Ruoxi Wang
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China; (Y.Y.); (R.W.); (C.L.)
- Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Da Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China;
| | - Ruijun Wu
- China National Center for Biotechnology Development, Beijing 100039, China; (R.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Zhifei Li
- China National Center for Biotechnology Development, Beijing 100039, China; (R.W.); (Z.L.)
| | - Chengxu Long
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China; (Y.Y.); (R.W.); (C.L.)
- Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Zhanchun Feng
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China; (Y.Y.); (R.W.); (C.L.)
- Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (S.T.)
| | - Shangfeng Tang
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China; (Y.Y.); (R.W.); (C.L.)
- Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (S.T.)
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22
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McDonnell T, Nicholson E, Conlon C, Barrett M, Cummins F, Hensey C, McAuliffe E. Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 Public Health Stages on Paediatric Emergency Attendance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186719. [PMID: 32942698 PMCID: PMC7558983 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
This study outlines the impact of COVID-19 on paediatric emergency department (ED) utilisation and assesses the extent of healthcare avoidance during each stage of the public health response strategy. Records from five EDs and one urgent care centre in Ireland, representing approximately 48% of national annual public paediatric ED attendances, are analysed to determine changes in characteristics of attendance during the three month period following the first reported COVID-19 case in Ireland, with reference to specific national public health stages. ED attendance reduced by 27–62% across all categories of diagnosis in the Delay phase and remained significantly below prior year levels as the country began Phase One of Reopening, with an incident rate ratio (IRR) of 0.58. The decrease was predominantly attributable to reduced attendance for injury and viral/viral induced conditions resulting from changed living conditions imposed by the public health response. However, attendance for complex chronic conditions also reduced and had yet to return to pre-COVID levels as reopening began. Attendances referred by general practitioners (GPs) dropped by 13 percentage points in the Delay phase and remained at that level. While changes in living conditions explain much of the decrease in overall attendance and in GP referrals, reduced attendance for complex chronic conditions may indicate avoidance behaviour and continued surveillance is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thérèse McDonnell
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research Education and Innovation in Health Systems, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, D04 C7X2 Dublin, Ireland; (E.N.); (C.C.); (E.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-1-716-6689
| | - Emma Nicholson
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research Education and Innovation in Health Systems, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, D04 C7X2 Dublin, Ireland; (E.N.); (C.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Ciara Conlon
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research Education and Innovation in Health Systems, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, D04 C7X2 Dublin, Ireland; (E.N.); (C.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Michael Barrett
- Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, D12 N512 Dublin, Ireland;
- Women’s and Children’s Health, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 C7X2 Dublin, Ireland
- National Children’s Research Centre, D12 N512 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fergal Cummins
- REDSPOT (Retrieval, Emergency and Disaster Medicine Research and Development), Emergency Department, Limerick University Hospital, V94 F858 Limerick, Ireland;
| | - Conor Hensey
- Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, D01 XD99 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Eilish McAuliffe
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research Education and Innovation in Health Systems, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, D04 C7X2 Dublin, Ireland; (E.N.); (C.C.); (E.M.)
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23
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McDonnell T, McAuliffe E, Barrett M, Conlon C, Cummins F, Deasy C, Hensey C, Martin C, Nicholson E. CUPID COVID-19: emergency department attendance by paediatric patients during COVID-19 - project protocol. HRB Open Res 2020; 3:37. [PMID: 32666040 PMCID: PMC7327719 DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13066.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Measures introduced to delay the spread of COVID-19 may result in avoidance of emergency departments (EDs) for non-COVID related illness. Clinicians and medical representative bodies such as the Irish Association for Emergency Medicine (IAEM) have expressed concern that some patients may not seek timely urgent medical intervention. Evidence from previous epidemics found that hospital avoidance during outbreaks of MERS and SARS was common. While ED attendance returned to normal following SARS and MERS, both outbreaks lasted 2-3 months. As the COVID-19 pandemic is forecast to extend into 2021, little is known about the impact COVID-19 will have on paediatric attendance at EDs as the pandemic evolves. Aims: This project aims to assess the impact of COVID-19 on paediatric emergency healthcare utilisation, to understand how the health seeking behaviour of parents may have altered due to the pandemic, and to identify how any barriers to accessing care can be removed. Methods: Administrative data records from five EDs across Ireland and one Urgent Care Centre will be analysed to identify temporal trends in attendances for emergency care. Qualitative inquiry will be utilised to capture the experience of staff providing emergency healthcare to paediatric patients during COVID-19, and their feedback on identified trends will inform the interpretation of findings. A cross-sectional survey of parents will capture experiences, concerns and decision-making on accessing healthcare for their children during the pandemic. Results and Conclusion: This information will help decision makers respond rapidly to meet the clinical needs of paediatric patients as the circumstances of the pandemic unfold and reduce the disruption to normal paediatric ED services during the onset of COVID-19. As the health of a child can deteriorate more rapidly than that of an adult, any delay in seeking care for an acutely ill child may have serious consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thérèse McDonnell
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eilish McAuliffe
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Barrett
- Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
- Women's and Children's Health, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- National Children's Research Centre, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciara Conlon
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Conor Hensey
- Children's Health Ireland at Temple St, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciara Martin
- Children's Health Ireland at Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emma Nicholson
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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24
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Jang WM, Jang DH, Lee JY. Social Distancing and Transmission-reducing Practices during the 2019 Coronavirus Disease and 2015 Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Outbreaks in Korea. J Korean Med Sci 2020; 35:e220. [PMID: 32537955 PMCID: PMC7295600 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2020.35.e220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The absence of effective antiviral medications and vaccines increased the focus on non-pharmaceutical preventive behaviors for mitigating against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. To examine the current status of non-pharmaceutical preventive behaviors practiced during the COVID-19 outbreak and factors affecting behavioral activities, we compared to the 2015 Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) outbreak in Korea. METHODS This was a serial cross-sectional population-based study in Korea with four surveys conducted on June 2 and 25, 2015 (MERS-CoV surveys), and February 4, and April 2, 2020 (COVID-19 surveys). Of 25,711 participants selected using random digit dialing numbers, 4,011 participants (aged ≥ 18 years) were successfully interviewed, for the 2020 COVID-19 (n = 2,002) and 2015 MERS-CoV (n = 2,009) epidemics were included. Participants were selected post-stratification by sex, age, and province. The total number of weighted cases in this survey equaled the total number of unweighted cases at the national level. We measured the levels of preventive behaviors (social distancing [avoiding physical contact with others]), and practicing transmission-reducing behaviors such as wearing face mask and handwashing. RESULTS Between the surveys, respondents who reported practicing social distancing increased from 41.9%-58.2% (MERS-CoV) to 83.4%-92.3% (COVID-19). The response rate for the four surveys ranged between 13.7% and 17.7%. Practicing transmission-reducing behaviors (wearing face masks and handwashing) at least once during COVID-19 (78.8%, 80.2%) also increased compared to that during MERS-CoV (15.5%, 60.3%). The higher affective risk perception groups were more likely to practice transmission-reducing measures (adjusted odds ratio, 3.24-4.81; 95 confidence interval, 1.76-6.96) during both COVID-19 and MERS-CoV. CONCLUSION The study findings suggest markedly increased proportions of non-pharmaceutical behavioral practices evenly across all subgroups during the two different novel virus outbreaks in Korea. Strategic interventions are needed to attempt based on preventive behavior works.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Mo Jang
- Health Review and Assessment Committee, Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, Wonju, Korea
| | - Deok Hyun Jang
- Research Analytics & Communications, Gallup Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Yong Lee
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.
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25
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McDonnell T, McAuliffe E, Barrett M, Conlon C, Cummins F, Deasy C, Hensey C, Martin C, Nicholson E. CUPID COVID-19: emergency department attendance by paediatric patients during COVID-19 - project protocol. HRB Open Res 2020; 3:37. [PMID: 32666040 PMCID: PMC7327719 DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13066.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Measures introduced to delay the spread of COVID-19 may result in avoidance of emergency departments (EDs) for non-COVID related illness. Clinicians and medical representative bodies such as the Irish Association for Emergency Medicine (IAEM) have expressed concern that some patients may not seek timely urgent medical intervention. Evidence from previous epidemics found that hospital avoidance during outbreaks of MERS and SARS was common. While ED attendance returned to normal following SARS and MERS, both outbreaks lasted 2-3 months. As the COVID-19 pandemic is forecast to extend into 2021, little is known about the impact COVID-19 will have on paediatric attendance at EDs as the pandemic evolves. Aims: This project aims to assess the impact of COVID-19 on paediatric emergency healthcare utilisation, to understand how the health seeking behaviour of parents may have altered due to the pandemic, and to identify how any barriers to accessing care can be removed. Methods: Administrative data records from five EDs across Ireland and one Urgent Care Centre will be analysed to identify changes in attendances at emergency healthcare. Qualitative inquiry will be utilised to capture the experience of staff providing emergency healthcare to paediatric patients during COVID-19, and their feedback on identified trends will inform the interpretation of findings. A cross-sectional survey of parents will capture experiences, concerns and decision-making on accessing healthcare for their children during the pandemic. Results and Conclusion: This information will help decision makers respond rapidly to meet the clinical needs of paediatric patients as the circumstances of the pandemic unfold and reduce the disruption to normal paediatric ED services during the onset of COVID-19. As the health of a child can deteriorate more rapidly than that of an adult, any delay in seeking care for an acutely ill child may have serious consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thérèse McDonnell
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursng, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eilish McAuliffe
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursng, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Barrett
- Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
- Women's and Children's Health, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- National Children's Research Centre, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciara Conlon
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursng, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Conor Hensey
- Children's Health Ireland at Temple St, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciara Martin
- Children's Health Ireland at Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emma Nicholson
- IRIS Centre, UCD School of Nursng, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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26
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Balkhi F, Nasir A, Zehra A, Riaz R. Psychological and Behavioral Response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic. Cureus 2020; 12:e7923. [PMID: 32499970 PMCID: PMC7265762 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.7923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China, which began in December 2019, evolved to become a global pandemic. The pandemic, along with the obvious health-related impact, also poses a serious threat to the psychological well-being of individuals and has resulted in significant behavioral changes. We aimed to describe the psycho-behavioral response to this crisis among the population of Karachi, Pakistan, in the month of March 2020. Methods A structured, self-administered questionnaire was constructed, based on previously conducted surveys, assessing the psychological impact and behavioral changes pertaining to COVID-19. Questionnaires were made available online, and were administered to any individual who was a resident of Karachi, during March 2020. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) to identify possible risk factors for psychological and behavioral changes. The responses were compared based on gender, age, and level of education, to find possible statistical correlations using chi-square test. Results This research studied data from 400 participants residing in Karachi, Pakistan. The spread of the virus had resulted in subsequent development of fears in the target population, with the majority of the respondents feeling anxious on a daily basis (62.5%). The participants feared going to marketplaces (88.8%), were concerned for the health of their family members (94.5%), and felt under-confident with the current infection control measures (71%). Significantly elevated levels of fear were noted among people >35 years of age. They were more likely to fear for the safety of their health even at home (p=0.06). Meanwhile, increased levels of anxiety due to use of social media among people below 35 years had resulted in avoidance behaviors (p=0.04). There was a higher tendency for graduates to fear for the safety of their health, even at home (p<0.01). In addition, more than three-fourths of our participants had incorporated changes in their behavior to ensure their safety i.e. reduced physical contact (86.5%) and visits to healthcare facilities (74.5%), canceled plans (84.5%), and washing hands more often (87%). Conclusion Our study highlighted the increased anxiety levels that an individual experienced on a regular basis regarding their health, the health of their peers, certain avoidance behaviors as a result of the disease, and behavioral changes of the concerned population. Besides calling attention to this worrisome situation, we also tried to list possible solutions to avert any future distress that may ensue as a result. Hopefully, our study will help the concerned authorities to take measures in order to alleviate the psychological and behavioral impact of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fizra Balkhi
- Internal Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Aamna Nasir
- Internal Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Arhama Zehra
- Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
| | - Ramsha Riaz
- Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
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