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Xue H, Jin S, Wu Q, Geng X. How did consumers’ self-protective behavior formed during the COVID-19 pandemic? Front Psychol 2023; 14:1075211. [PMID: 36968725 PMCID: PMC10034392 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1075211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThis study explored the formation mechanism of consumers’ self-protective behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is very important for policy settings to regulate consumer behavior. Based on the basic framework of the Protective Action Decision Model (PADM), this study analyzed the formation mechanism of consumers’ self-protective willingness from the perspective of risk information, and explained the deviation between consumers’ self-protective willingness and behavior from the perspective of protective behavior attributes.MethodsBased on 1,265 consumer survey data during the COVID-19 pandemic, the empirical test was carried out.Results and DiscussionThe amount of risk information has a significant positive impact on the consumers’ self-protective willingness, where the credibility of risk information plays a positive moderating role between them. Risk perception plays a positive mediating role between the amount of risk information and the consumers’ self-protective willingness, and the positive mediating effect of risk perception is negatively moderated by the credibility of risk information. In the protective behavior attributes, hazard-related attributes play a positive moderating role between the consumers’ self-protective willingness and behavior, while resource-related attributes play the opposite role. Consumers pay more attention to hazard-related attributes than resource-related attributes, and they are willing to consume more resources to reduce risk.
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Nadini M, Richmond S, Huang J, Rizzo A, Porfiri M. Design and Feasibility Study of the Mobile Application StopTheSpread. IEEE ACCESS : PRACTICAL INNOVATIONS, OPEN SOLUTIONS 2020; 8:172105-172122. [PMID: 34976556 PMCID: PMC8675558 DOI: 10.1109/access.2020.3022740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of recent disease outbreaks calls for the design of new educational games aimed at increasing awareness in disease prevention. This article presents StopTheSpread, an educational mobile application that seeks to improve awareness about the best practices to prevent the spreading of seasonal flu in the general public. StopTheSpread integrates concepts in network science and epidemiology, within a freely available mobile application that provides a unique learning experience for free-choice learners about flu prevention. StopTheSpread teaches users basic concepts about flu prevention, within a series of games of increasing difficulty that maintain user engagement and offers a user-friendly design. StopTheSpread provides a summary of the best practices to prevent flu spreading according to the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization, while connecting users to citizen science projects aimed at worldwide flu tracking. Through Facebook, Twitter, and email we reached volunteers during the COVID-19 confinement, to conduct an online feasibility study, toward assessing learning outcome in playing with our mobile application. Our results indicate that the use of StopTheSpread increased by 20% the awareness about the spreading mechanism of flu, compared with the baseline population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Nadini
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringNew York University Tandon School of EngineeringBrooklynNY11201USA
| | - Samuel Richmond
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringNew York University Tandon School of EngineeringBrooklynNY11201USA
| | - Jiayi Huang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringNew York University Tandon School of EngineeringBrooklynNY11201USA
| | - Alessandro Rizzo
- Dipartimento di Elettronica e TelecomunicazioniPolitecnico di Torino10129TurinItaly
- Office of InnovationNew York University Tandon School of EngineeringBrooklynNY11201USA
| | - Maurizio Porfiri
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringNew York University Tandon School of EngineeringBrooklynNY11201USA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNew York University Tandon School of EngineeringBrooklynNY11201USA
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Hou Y, Tan YR, Lim WY, Lee V, Tan LWL, Chen MIC, Yap P. Adequacy of public health communications on H7N9 and MERS in Singapore: insights from a community based cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:436. [PMID: 29609573 PMCID: PMC5879609 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5340-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Singapore remains vulnerable to worldwide epidemics due to high air traffic with other countries This study aims to measure the public’s awareness of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Avian Influenza A (H7N9), identify population groups who are uninformed or misinformed about the diseases, understand their choice of outbreak information source, and assess the effectiveness of communication channels in Singapore. Methods A cross-sectional study, comprising of face-to-face interviews, was conducted between June and December 2013 to assess the public’s awareness and knowledge of MERS and H7N9, including their choice of information source. Respondents were randomly selected and recruited from 3 existing cohort studies. An opportunistic sampling approach was also used to recruit new participants or members in the same household through referrals from existing participants. Results Out of 2969 participants, 53.2% and 79.4% were not aware of H7N9 and MERS respectively. Participants who were older and better educated were most likely to hear about the diseases. The mean total knowledge score was 9.2 (S.D ± 2.3) out of 20, and 5.9 (S.D ± 1.2) out of 10 for H7N9 and MERS respectively. Participants who were Chinese, more educated and older had better knowledge of the diseases. Television and radio were the primary sources of outbreak information regardless of socio-demographic factors. Conclusion Heightening education of infectious outbreaks through appropriate media to the young and less educated could increase awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan'an Hou
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Singapore.,Epidemiology Unit, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yi-Roe Tan
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Yen Lim
- Research and Development Office, Agency for Integrated Care, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vernon Lee
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Singapore
| | - Linda Wei Lin Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Singapore
| | - Mark I-Cheng Chen
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Singapore. .,Institute of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Peiling Yap
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Casado-Mejía R, Brea-Ruiz MT, Torres-Enamorado D, Albar-Marín MJ, Botello-Hermosa A, Santos-Casado M, Casado-Rojas I. Motivaciones y experiencias emocionales del primer equipo multidisciplinario hospitalario entrenado para atender casos de Ébola en Andalucía (2014-2016). GACETA SANITARIA 2016; 30:242-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gaceta.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Knowledge and attitudes in regard to pandemic influenza A(H1N1) in a multiethnic community of Malaysia. Int J Behav Med 2011; 18:112-21. [PMID: 20835855 PMCID: PMC7090469 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-010-9114-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Assessment of general public’s knowledge and attitudes toward the development and prevention of new disease outbreaks is imperative because they have profound effects on health behaviors and may contribute to the control of the epidemic. Purpose To investigate the level of knowledge and attitudes towards the influenza A(H1N1) outbreak across various ethnic groups and socio-demographic backgrounds in Malaysia. Method A cross-sectional, population-based, computer-assisted telephone interview exploring knowledge and attitudes regarding influenza A(H1N1) was conducted in Malaysia. Between July 11 and September 12, 2009, a total of 1,050 respondents were interviewed (response rate 69.3%). Results The mean total knowledge score for the overall sample was 7.30 (SD ± 1.961) out of a possible score of 13 (Chinese had the highest scores, followed by Indians, then Malays). Some erroneous beliefs about the modes of transmission were identified. The majority of the participants (73.8%) perceived the A(H1N1) infection as often deadly. Despite the overestimation of the severity of A(H1N1) infection, high confidence in preventing infection and low perceived susceptibility of infection were reported. Influenza A(H1N1)-related stigma was prevalent and exhibited differences across ethnic groups. Conclusions Findings suggest that provision of education and clear information are essential to correct the misconceptions, and increase perceived susceptibility to infection so that the general public will take precautions against A(H1N1) infection.
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Bar-Dayan Y, Boldor N, Kremer I, London M, Levy R, Barak MI, Bar-Dayan Y. Who is willing to risk his life for a patient with a potentially fatal, communicable disease during the peak of A/H1N1 pandemic in Israel? J Emerg Trauma Shock 2011; 4:184-7. [PMID: 21769203 PMCID: PMC3132356 DOI: 10.4103/0974-2700.82203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2010] [Accepted: 10/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The willingness of healthcare workers to risk their lives for a patient with a potentially fatal, communicable disease is a major concern, especially during a pandemic where the need for adequate staffing is crucial and where the public atmosphere might enhance anxiety and fear of exposure. Objective: To examine the relationships between the willingness of healthcare workers to risk their lives for a patient with a potentially fatal A/H1N1 flu, and knowledge of personal protection against infection, and trust in colleagues, workplace preparedness and the effectiveness of safety measures, during the winter A/H1N1 pandemic in Israel. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to healthcare workers in 21 hospitals in Israel between 26 November 2009 and 10 December 2009 (the peak of the winter A/H1N1 flu outbreak). The questionnaire was completed by 1147 healthcare workers. Results: Willingness to risk one's life for a patient was significantly lower in females, respondents of younger age (18–24 years), administrative staff, and those with a non-academic education, as well as among those with a less knowledge about safety measures and among those with less trust in colleagues, in work place preparedness, and in the effectiveness of safety measures. Conclusions: Willingness to risk one's life for a patient is related to knowledge of safety measures, and trust in colleagues and work place preparedness. Education programs to enhance trust in colleagues, improve work place preparedness, and safety measures are recommended, especially for healthcare workers who are young, inexperienced, female, or administrative staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Bar-Dayan
- Department of Management, Faculty of Social Sciences, Bar Ilan University, Givat Shmuel, Israel
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Lau JTF, Griffiths S, Choi KC, Tsui HY. Avoidance behaviors and negative psychological responses in the general population in the initial stage of the H1N1 pandemic in Hong Kong. BMC Infect Dis 2010; 10:139. [PMID: 20509887 PMCID: PMC2891756 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-10-139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2009] [Accepted: 05/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During the SARS pandemic in Hong Kong, panic and worry were prevalent in the community and the general public avoided staying in public areas. Such avoidance behaviors could greatly impact daily routines of the community and the local economy. This study examined the prevalence of the avoidance behaviors (i.e. avoiding going out, visiting crowded places and visiting hospitals) and negative psychological responses of the general population in Hong Kong at the initial stage of the H1N1 epidemic. Methods A sample of 999 respondents was recruited in a population-based survey. Using random telephone numbers, respondents completed a structured questionnaire by telephone interviews at the 'pre-community spread phase' of the H1N1 epidemic in Hong Kong. Results This study found that 76.5% of the respondents currently avoided going out or visiting crowded places or hospitals, whilst 15% felt much worried about contracting H1N1 and 6% showed signs of emotional distress. Females, older respondents, those having unconfirmed beliefs about modes of transmissions, and those feeling worried and emotionally distressed due to H1N1 outbreak were more likely than others to adopt some avoidance behaviors. Those who perceived high severity and susceptibility of getting H1N1 and doubted the adequacy of governmental preparedness were more likely than others to feel emotionally distressed. Conclusions The prevalence of avoidance behaviors was very high. Cognitions, including unconfirmed beliefs about modes of transmission, perceived severity and susceptibility were associated with some of the avoidance behaviors and emotional distress variables. Public health education should therefore provide clear messages to rectify relevant perceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T F Lau
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Differences in the Sources of Information and Acquaintance with Instructions between Dimona and the General Population after a Suicide Bomber Event. Prehosp Disaster Med 2010; 25:63-7. [DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x00007688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractA telephone survey among two randomly selected, representative samples of adults was conducted two days after a suicide bomber event in Dimona, Israel. Television, radio, Internet, and newspapers were more common sources of information in the general population, whereas friends, family, and the local authorities were the more common sources of information in Dimona. Higher acquaintance with police instructions and higher knowledge of the exact location of the event were found in the population of Dimona. Authorities must pay attention to this phenomenon and use the correct sources of information in each area in order to achieve better exposure of the target population to the police instructions after a terrorist event.
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Pappas G, Kiriaze IJ, Giannakis P, Falagas ME. Psychosocial consequences of infectious diseases. Clin Microbiol Infect 2009; 15:743-7. [PMID: 19754730 PMCID: PMC7129378 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2009.02947.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Historically, there has been an exaggerated fear related to infection compared to other conditions. Infection possesses unique characteristics that account for this disproportionate degree of fear: it is transmitted rapidly and invisibly; historically, it has accounted for major morbidity and mortality; old forms re-emerge and new forms emerge; and both the media and society are often in awe. Because, in an outbreak, the patient is both a victim and a vector, and because there exists the potential for infringement of personal rights in order to control an outbreak, infection may be viewed (and has been depicted in popular culture) as a foreign invasion. During recent outbreaks, fear, denial, stigmatization and loss have been recorded in the implicated individuals. Stigmatization and discrimination may further involve ethical correlations, and attempts to adress these issues through activism may also have unwarranted effects. Public health initiatives can address the public's fears by increasing health literacy, which can contribute to reducing stigmatization.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Pappas
- Institute of Continuing Medical Education of Ioannina, 45333, Ioannina, Greece.
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Leppin A, Aro AR. Risk perceptions related to SARS and avian influenza: theoretical foundations of current empirical research. Int J Behav Med 2009; 16:7-29. [PMID: 19214752 PMCID: PMC7090865 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-008-9002-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome in 2003 and the subsequent emergence of the H5N1 virus have highlighted the threat of a global pandemic influenza outbreak. Planning effective public health control measures for such a case will be highly dependent on sound theory-based research on how people perceive the risks involved in such an event. PURPOSE The present article aims to review theoretical models and concepts underlying current empirical research on pandemic influenza risk perception. METHOD A review was conducted based on 28 empirical studies from 30 articles which were published between 2003 and 2007. RESULTS Concepts of risk perception mostly seemed more pragmatic than theory-based and were highly heterogeneous, for instance, in terms of conceptualizing risk perception as an exclusively cognitive or as a cognitive and emotional phenomenon or whether the concept was dominated by expectancy or expectancy and value components. Similarly, the majority of studies investigating risk perceptions and protective behaviors were not model-based. CONCLUSIONS The current body of knowledge can only provide preliminary insights. Unlike the reviewed studies, which were mostly launched as a rapid response to outbreak situations, future research will have to invest more strongly into theoretical work to provide sounder evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Leppin
- University of Southern Denmark, Institute of Public Health, Unit for Health Promotion, Niels Bohrs Vej 9, 6700 Esbjerg, Denmark.
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