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Madsen AM, Rasmussen PU, Delsuz MS, Frederiksen MW. A cross-sectional study on occupational hygiene in biowaste plants. Ann Work Expo Health 2024:wxae074. [PMID: 39312492 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Recycling demands are increasing and new biowaste plants are established. The aim of this study is to obtain knowledge about occupational hygiene in biowaste pretreatment plants. At 6 plants, bioaerosol exposure, hand hygiene, and bioaerosol concentrations in work areas were investigated repeatedly. The total inflammatory potential (TIP) of exposures was measured using the human HL-60 cell line. Exposure to airborne bacteria, bacteria able to grow anaerobic, fungi(37°C), endotoxin, and TIP differed between plants and was lowest in a plant transporting waste in closed pipes compared to plants where waste was delivered on the receiving hall floor. Conversely, high exposures were measured in a plant that also processes compost. All microbial components had an impact on TIP of workers' exposure with main effects of fungi and endotoxin. Seasonality was found for several exposures and TIP, and they were lowest in the winter. Concentrations of bacteria and fungi on workers' hands at the end of the workday were 15 times higher for production than for nonproduction workers. In work areas, the concentrations of airborne fungi were highest in the waste-receiving area. Bacteria (3.2 µm) and anaerobic bacteria (4.0 µm) were present as larger airborne particles than fungi (2.8 µm), and bacteria were largest in the waste-receiving area. The microbial community compositions of exposures and work areas differed between plants and work areas. In conclusion, measures to reduce exposure should focus on the waste-receiving area and on the production workers. Differences in exposures and community compositions were found between seasons, work areas, work groups, and plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mette Madsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Pil Uthaug Rasmussen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Seeiar Delsuz
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Margit W Frederiksen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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Miko S, Calderwood L, Dale AP, King RF, Maurer MB, Said MA, Gebhardt M, Dyer LP, Maurer W, Wikswo ME, Mirza SA. Acute Gastroenteritis Outbreak Among Colorado River Rafters and Backpackers in the Grand Canyon, 2022. Wilderness Environ Med 2024; 35:173-182. [PMID: 38613339 PMCID: PMC11073894 DOI: 10.1177/10806032241245093] [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] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION From April 1 to May 31, 2022, Grand Canyon National Park received increased acute gastroenteritis reports. Pooled portable toilet specimens identified norovirus genogroups I and II. We sought to determine outbreak transmission contributors and individual risk factors while rafting or backpacking in the park. METHODS Grand Canyon rafters and backpackers were surveyed online from June 13-July 8, 2022, and a Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify predictors associated with illness and adjusted for potential confounding factors. RESULTS Among 762 surveys, 119 cases and 505 well persons submitted complete survey data. Illness among rafters was associated with interaction with ill persons during the trip (adjusted hazard ratio [adjHR] = 3.4 [95%CI 2.3-5.0]) and lack of any hand hygiene (1.2 [0.7-1.9]) or use of only sanitizer or water (1.6 [1.04-2.6]) before snacks. Younger rafters had higher illness rates compared to those ≥60 y (1.5 [1.2-1.8] for ages 40-59 and 2.2 [1.4-3.5] for ages <40 y). CONCLUSIONS Person-to-person transmission likely accounted for the widespread outbreak. Future outbreak mitigation efforts on river trips could focus on symptom screening before the trip starts, prompt separation of ill and well passengers, strict adherence to hand hygiene with soap and water, minimizing social interactions among rafting groups, and widespread outbreak notices and education to all park users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanna Miko
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Laura Calderwood
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Cherokee Nation Assurance, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ariella P. Dale
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Arizona Department of Health Services, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Maricopa County Department of Public Health, Maricopa, AZ, USA
| | - Ronan F. King
- National Park Service – Office of Public Health, Washington D.C., USA
| | | | - Maria A. Said
- National Park Service – Office of Public Health, Washington D.C., USA
| | - Marette Gebhardt
- Coconino County Health and Human Services, Coconino County, AZ, USA
| | | | - Wendy Maurer
- Coconino County Health and Human Services, Coconino County, AZ, USA
| | - Mary E. Wikswo
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sara A. Mirza
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Gabanelli P, Monzani D, Fiabane E, Quaquarini E, Frascaroli M, Balletti E, Bernardo A, Teragni CM, Grossi F, Pravettoni G, Gorini A. Perceived risk, illness perception and dispositional optimism related to COVID-19 among oncologic outpatients undergoing in-hospital treatments and healthy controls. Psychol Health 2024; 39:417-433. [PMID: 35435083 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2022.2065275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore risk estimations (perceived risk, dispositional optimism) related to COVID-19 perception and distress in oncologic outpatients undergoing active hospital treatments compared to the general population. DESIGN AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Data were collected during the Italian lockdown on 150 oncologic outpatients and a sample of 150 healthy subjects. They completed a battery of questionnaires including the Perceived Risk scale, the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, the Life Orientation Test- Revised and the Patient Health Questionnaire-4. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and a moderated mediation model were performed to test the study hypotheses. RESULTS The moderated mediation model attested significant conditional indirect associations of both clinical status and dispositional optimism with distress through the mediation of COVID-19 perceived risk. Healthy individuals and less optimistic people were more likely than others to report higher psychological distress only when they showed neutral or negative COVID-19-related illness perception. CONCLUSIONS Cancer patients manifest a lower risk perception and a more positive illness representation related to COVID-19 compared to control subjects; the distress level is not associated with the clinical status, but it is moderated by illness perception. Adequate protective behaviors in cancer patients may avoid a dangerous underestimation of objective risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Gabanelli
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Psychology Unit of Pavia Institute, Italy
| | - Dario Monzani
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Fiabane
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine of Nervi Institute, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Italy
| | - Erica Quaquarini
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Operative Unit of Medical Oncology of Pavia Institute, Italy
| | - Mara Frascaroli
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Operative Unit of Translational Oncology of Pavia Institute, Italy
| | - Emanuela Balletti
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Operative Unit of Medical Oncology of Pavia Institute, Italy
| | - Antonio Bernardo
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Operative Unit of Medical Oncology of Pavia Institute, Italy
| | - Cristina Maria Teragni
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Operative Unit of Medical Oncology of Pavia Institute, Italy
| | - Federica Grossi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Psychology Unit of Pavia Institute, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gorini
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Milano Institute, Italy
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Sanchez T, Hall E, Siegler AJ, Prakash-Asrani R, Bradley H, Fahimi M, Lopman B, Luisi N, Nelson KN, Sailey C, Shioda K, Valentine-Graves M, Sullivan PS. Prevalence of COVID-19 Mitigation Behaviors in US Adults (August-December 2020): Nationwide Household Probability Survey. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e37102. [PMID: 38055314 PMCID: PMC10702689 DOI: 10.2196/37102] [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: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 mitigation behaviors, such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and practicing hand hygiene, have been and will remain vital to slowing the pandemic. OBJECTIVE This study aims to describe the period prevalence of consistent mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand hygiene practices during the peak of COVID-19 incidence (August-December 2020) and just before COVID-19 vaccine availability, overall and in demographic subgroups. METHODS We used baseline survey data from a nationwide household probability sample to generate weighted estimates of mitigation behaviors: wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and practicing hand hygiene. Weighted logistic regression explored differences in mitigation behaviors by demographics. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified patterns in mitigation behaviors. RESULTS Among 4654 participants, most (n=2727, 58.6%) were female, were non-Hispanic White (n=3063, 65.8%), were aged 55 years or older (n=2099, 45.1%), lived in the South (n=2275, 48.9%), lived in metropolitan areas (n=4186, 89.9%), had at least a bachelor's degree (n=2547, 54.7%), had an income of US $50,000-$99,000 (n=1445, 31%), and were privately insured (n=2734, 58.7%). The period prevalence of consistent mask wearing was 71.1% (sample-weighted 95% CI 68.8-73.3); consistent social distancing, 42.9% (95% CI 40.5-45.3); frequent handwashing, 55.0% (95% CI 52.3-57.7); and frequent hand sanitizing, 21.5% (95% CI 19.4-23.8). Mitigation behaviors were more prevalent among women, older persons, Black or Hispanic persons, those who were not college graduates, and service-oriented workers. LCA identified an optimal-mitigation class that consistently practiced all behaviors (n=2656, 67% of US adults), a low-mitigation class that inconsistently practiced all behaviors (n=771, 20.6%), and a class that had optimal masking and social distancing but a high frequency of hand hygiene (n=463, 12.4%). CONCLUSIONS Despite a high prevalence of COVID-19 mitigation behaviors, there were likely millions who did not consistently practice these behaviors during the time of the highest COVID-19 incidence. In future infectious disease outbreak responses, public health authorities should also consider addressing disparities in mitigation practices through more targeted prevention messaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis Sanchez
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Eric Hall
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Heather Bradley
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Benjamin Lopman
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kristin N Nelson
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Kayoko Shioda
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Yamakawa M, Tanaka Y, Tomokawa S. Personal characteristics associated with handwashing behaviour among Japanese university students studying abroad: Prospective observational studies. Travel Med Infect Dis 2023; 56:102651. [PMID: 37839691 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2023.102651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hand hygiene is recommended to travellers to prevent common travel-related illnesses such as diarrhoea and respiratory infection. For effective hygiene promotion interventions, we aimed to identify the personal characteristics associated with handwashing behaviour. METHODS Prospective observational studies consisting of pre- and post-travel surveys were conducted among Japanese university students studying abroad between 2016 and 2018 (n = 825; 6-38 travel days). Associations of age, sex, study major, and overseas travel experience with handwashing behaviour (5-point scale) were evaluated using ordinal logistic regression models, with adjustment for destination, travel duration, and psychological factors (risk perception of diarrhoea and concern about hygiene). RESULTS Among the participants in our analysis (n = 629), 28.0 % washed their hands before every meal while abroad. The male sex and no overseas travel experience were associated with decreased frequency of infrequent handwashing, even after adjusting for all potential confounding factors, whereas the study major was not associated. The adjusted odds ratios (95 % confidence intervals) were 0.74 (0.56-0.99) for men vs. women and 0.69 (0.52-0.93) for no overseas travel experience vs. overseas travel experience but not to the current destination. CONCLUSIONS The lack of overseas travel experience correlated with handwashing frequency in both men and women. In addition to the travel destination, the male sex and no overseas travel experience should be highlighted in pretravel hand hygiene interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiyo Yamakawa
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan.
| | - Yuko Tanaka
- Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8555, Japan.
| | - Sachi Tomokawa
- Sports Science Department, Faculty of Education, Shinshu University, 6-ro, Nishi-nagano, Nagano, 380-8544, Japan.
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Wong R, Lovier MA. Racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 diagnosis and adherence to mitigation behaviours in a national United States older adult sample. Epidemiol Infect 2023; 151:e175. [PMID: 37799056 PMCID: PMC10600897 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268823001607] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Older adults and people of colour are vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic, and mitigation behaviours reduce COVID-19 infection. We examined racial and ethnic differences in COVID-19 diagnosis and adherence to COVID-19 mitigation behaviours among U.S. older adults. Data were retrieved from the National Health and Aging Trends Study, a nationally representative prospective cohort with 3257 U.S. Medicare beneficiaries aged 65+. COVID-19 variables were collected in 2020; all other data in 2019. Odds of COVID-19 diagnosis and adherence to mitigation behaviours (handwashing, masking, social distancing) were analysed using logistic regression. Compared to White older adults, only Hispanic respondents had 2.7 times significantly higher odds of COVID-19 after adjusting for sociodemographics, health, and mitigation behaviours (aOR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.20-6.12). Black older adults had 7.9 times significantly higher odds of masking (aOR = 7.94, 95% CI = 2.33-27.04) and 2.3 times higher odds of social distancing (aOR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.28-4.24), after adjusting for sociodemographics and health. Among all racial and ethnic groups, only Hispanic older adults had a significantly elevated COVID-19 diagnosis. Despite higher adherence to COVID-19 mitigation behaviours among racial and ethnic minorities, especially Black older adults, odds of COVID-19 remained elevated. Research is needed to explore potential mechanisms for higher odds of COVID-19 among minority older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Wong
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Norton College of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Department of Geriatrics, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Margaret Anne Lovier
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Norton College of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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İkiışık H, Surmeli A, Sever F, Maral I. Perceived Risk of COVID-19 and Anxiety in Syrian Refugees in Turkey. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 38:259-267. [PMID: 36242533 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2022.2134251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Pandemics are amongst the most destructive disasters to have afflicted humankind through history. These disasters entail a disproportionate effect on refugee populations, who are already in a state of high vulnerability. This study aims to assess the perception of risk of COVID-19 in the refugee populations in Turkey, in addition to evaluating anxiety levels during the pandemic. The participants of this study were refugees enrolled in a local nonprofit organization in Istanbul. They were asked to complete questionnaires which asked about COVID-19 and any self-protection measures. The questionnaire also incorporated the General Anxiety Disorder-7 screening test. In this young, male and mostly unemployed population, knowing someone who experienced COVID-19 was associated with a greater likelihood of compliance with hygiene and physical distancing measures. Anxiety levels were above 29%, and the highest scores were in the age group between 25 and 55 years. We argue that comprehensive public health measures against COVID-19 should include focused interventions for refugee populations that take the extra vulnerability (health, financial, and other) into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatice İkiışık
- Department of Public Health, Istanbul Medeniyet University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aral Surmeli
- Department of Executive Office, HERA Inc ., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Filiz Sever
- Department of Public Health, Istanbul Medeniyet University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Isil Maral
- Department of Public Health, Istanbul Medeniyet University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Aslan G, Savci Bakan AB. An investigation of women's hygiene habits and the affecting factors during the Covid-19 pandemic. Women Health 2023; 63:204-210. [PMID: 36635919 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2023.2165600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate women's hygiene habits and the affecting factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was conducted with women aged 21 to 64 between July and September 2021. The sample size was calculated as 384 individuals using the method for an unknown population, and the study included 405 women who agreed to participate. Data were collected through the Descriptive Characteristics Form and the COVID-19 Hygiene Scale. According to the women's descriptive characteristics Hygiene Scale mean scores were significantly higher in those who were married, who lived in urban areas, who had children aged 0 to 6, who had been diagnosed with Covid-19, who had other individuals infected with COVID-19 at home, and who reportedly had changes in their hygiene habits in the pandemic process. The importance given to hygiene by women was found to increase in the COVID-19 process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülpınar Aslan
- Department of Midwifery, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University Faculty of Health Sciences, Ağrı, Turkey
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Wangchuk T, Kinga, Wangdi U, Tshering U, Wangdi K. Hand Hygiene, Face Mask Use, and Associated Factors during the COVID-19 Pandemic among the Students of Mongar Higher Secondary School, Bhutan: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1058. [PMID: 36673813 PMCID: PMC9859439 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Non-pharmacological measures, such as hand hygiene and face mask use, continue to play an important role in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a paucity of studies on the adherence to these measures among students in Bhutan. Therefore, we aimed to investigate hand hygiene and face mask-wearing behaviours, as well as their associated factors, among the students of Mongar Higher Secondary School, Bhutan. We conducted a cross-sectional study amongst the students of Mongar Higher Secondary School in Bhutan. The students self-answered the questionnaire on web-based Google Forms. Multivariable logistic regression for good hand washing and face mask use was conducted in order to identify statistically significant socio-demographic covariates. The correlation between hand hygiene and mask use was investigated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A total of 533 students completed the survey questionnaire, 52.9% (282) of whom were female students. Facebook (44.3%, 236) and TV (35.5%, 189) were the two most popular sources of information on COVID-19 prevention and control. Good (scores of ≥80% of total scores) hand hygiene and face mask use were reported in 33.6% (179) and 22.1% (118) of students. In multivariable logistic regression, male students presented 79% (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.23−2.613) odds of engaging in good hand hygiene, compared to female students. Compared to grade 9, those in grade 10 were 60% (AOR = 0.4, 95% CI 0.158−0.998) less likely to engage in good hand hygiene. Boarding students presented 68% (AOR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.001, 2.813) higher odds of wearing a face mask compared to day students. There was a significant positive correlation between good hand hygiene and face mask use (r = 0.3671, p-value < 0.001). Good hand hygiene and face mask use were reported in less than one-third of the study participants. It is recommended to continue educating students on good hand hygiene and face mask use through popular information sources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kinga
- Mongar Higher Secondary School, Mongar 43002, Bhutan
| | - Ugyen Wangdi
- Mongar Higher Secondary School, Mongar 43002, Bhutan
| | - Ugyen Tshering
- Faculty of Education, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Kinley Wangdi
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Acton, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
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Brown LG, Hoover ER, Besrat BN, Burns-Lynch C, Frankson R, Jones SL, Garcia-Williams AG. Application of the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behavior (COM-B) model to identify predictors of two self-reported hand hygiene behaviors (handwashing and hand sanitizer use) to prevent COVID-19 infection among U.S. adults, Fall 2020. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2360. [PMID: 36527030 PMCID: PMC9756742 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14809-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Handwashing with soap and water is an important way to prevent transmission of viruses and bacteria and worldwide it is estimated handwashing can prevent 1 in 5 viral respiratory infections. Frequent handwashing is associated with a decreased risk for infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when handwashing is not feasible can also help prevent the transmission of viruses and bacteria. OBJECTIVE Since early 2020, the public has been encouraged to handwash frequently with soap and water and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available to reduce COVID-19 transmission. This study's objectives were to assess U.S. adults' perceptions of components of the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behavior (COM-B) Model in relation to these two hand hygiene behaviors and to identify relationships between these components and hand hygiene behaviors. METHODS Items assessing capability, opportunity, motivation, and hand hygiene behaviors were included in FallStyles, a survey completed by 3,625 adults in the fall of 2020 through an online panel representative of the U.S. POPULATION We calculated composite capability, opportunity, and motivation measures and descriptive statistics for all measures. Finally, we conducted multiple logistic regressions to identify predictors of handwashing and hand sanitizer use. RESULTS Most respondents reported frequently washing hands with soap and water (89%) and using alcohol-based hand sanitizer (72%) to prevent coronavirus. For capability, over 90% of respondents said that neither behavior takes a lot of effort, but fewer agreed that they knew when, or how, they should engage in handwashing (67%; 74%) and hand sanitizer use (62%; 64%). For opportunity, over 95% of respondents said lack of time didn't make it hard to engage in either behavior; fewer said visual cues reminded them to engage in the behaviors (handwashing: 30%; sanitizer use: 48%). For motivation, the majority believed the two behaviors were good ways to prevent coronavirus illness (handwashing: 76%; sanitizer use: 59%). Regressions indicated that capability, opportunity, and particularly motivation were positively associated with both hand hygiene behaviors. CONCLUSIONS The COM-B model was a helpful framework for increasing understanding of hand hygiene behavior; it identified capability, opportunity, and motivation as predictors of both handwashing and hand sanitizer use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura G Brown
- National Center for Environmental Health, U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA.
| | - E Rickamer Hoover
- National Center for Environmental Health, U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Bethlehem N Besrat
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Claire Burns-Lynch
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Rebekah Frankson
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Shantrice L Jones
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Amanda G Garcia-Williams
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Fernandez-Pacheco A, Taylor L, Kahar P, Khanna D. A Survey of Public Health Failures During COVID-19. Cureus 2022; 14:e32437. [PMID: 36644033 PMCID: PMC9833812 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The prolonged coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has raised concerns about the failures in the public health measures used to manage the spread of this deadly virus. This review focuses its attention on research papers that at their core highlight the individual public health measures instituted by organizations, institutions, and the government of the United States (US) since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and that were published in 2019 to 2022. Together, these sources help paint a well-rounded view of the US management of this pandemic so that conclusions may be drawn from mistakes that were made and this country may respond better in the future to such situations. This paper is unique because it highlights the areas where improvement is needed, whereas other published work describes the measures taken and how they were carried out, not the failures, which leaves a gap in the literature that this paper hopes to fill. Through a deep dive into public health measures, seven areas in which improvements could be made were pinpointed by the authors. Such measures included mask mandates, social distancing, lockdown/quarantine, hand hygiene, COVID-19 testing, travel screening, and vaccine hesitancy. In exploring each measure, a discussion was carried out about its benefits and shortcomings in alleviating the ramifications of a global pandemic. In addition to the poor supply chain for critical products like personal protective equipment (PPE), the miscommunication between states and federal policies did not allow for the entirety of the US to respond cohesively in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. This general review is crucial to know what is working and what needs to be changed to increase the benefits provided to the population.
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Czeisler MÉ, Lane RI, Orellana RC, Lundeen K, Macomber K, Collins J, Varma P, Booker LA, Rajaratnam SM, Howard ME, Czeisler CA, Flannery B, Weaver MD. Perception of Local COVID-19 Transmission and Use of Preventive Behaviors Among Adults with Recent SARS-CoV-2 Infection - Illinois and Michigan, June 1-July 31, 2022. MMWR. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2022; 71:1471-1478. [PMID: 36395064 PMCID: PMC9707356 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7146a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, use of preventive behaviors was associated with perceived risk for contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection (1,2). Over time, perceived risk has declined along with waning COVID-19-related media coverage (3,4). The extent to which communities continue to be aware of local COVID-19 transmission levels and are implementing recommended preventive behaviors is unknown. During June 1-July 31, 2022, health departments in DuPage County, Illinois and metropolitan Detroit, Michigan surveyed a combined total of 4,934 adults who had received a positive test result for SARS-CoV-2 during the preceding 3 weeks. The association between awareness of local COVID-19 transmission and use of preventive behaviors and practices was assessed, both in response to perceived local COVID-19 transmission levels and specifically during the 2 weeks preceding SARS-CoV-2 testing. Both areas had experienced sustained high COVID-19 transmission during the study interval as categorized by CDC COVID-19 transmission levels.* Overall, 702 (14%) respondents perceived local COVID-19 transmission levels as high, 987 (20%) as substantial, 1,902 (39%) as moderate, and 581 (12%) as low; 789 (16%) reported they did not know. Adjusting for geographic area, age, gender identity, and combined race and ethnicity, respondents who perceived local COVID-19 transmission levels as high were more likely to report having made behavioral changes because of the level of COVID-19 transmission in their area, including wearing a mask in public, limiting travel, and avoiding crowded places or events. Continued monitoring of public perceptions of local COVID-19 levels and developing a better understanding of their influence on the use of preventive behaviors can guide COVID-19 communication strategies and policy making during and beyond the pandemic.
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13
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Improving the Effectiveness of Anti-COVID Measures in Buildings: Learning from Users’ Perception. BUILDINGS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/buildings12081161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 spread abruptly changed the fruition of indoor environments, where necessary adaptive measures have since been implemented. Buildings open to the public were suddenly equipped with physical devices aiming to encourage users’ appropriate behaviors, such as hand sanitizing, social distancing, and temperature monitoring. Through a twofold architectural-psychological perspective, the paper presents a research aiming to understand how users perceive these devices in the Italian context and to identify the design features that could improve their effectiveness in enhancing individuals’ awareness. With an interdisciplinary approach, four methods were adopted: observational field surveys, background and normative framework analysis, survey research through an online questionnaire, and case studies survey research. The results confirm the overall effectiveness of the implemented anti-COVID strategies, their suitability in encouraging individuals’ appropriate behaviors, and the importance of regulating the users’ flow indoors. The research allowed defining the devices (hand-sanitizing devices and temperature-measurement instruments) and wayfinding systems more suited to be included in the prevention strategy and identified their more appropriate design features in relation to the users’ feedback. Operational suggestions are presented as well. The adopted experimental approach can be useful in supporting decision making in managing of the built environment in both the current and future contexts.
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14
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Tatar O, Haward B, Zhu P, Griffin-Mathieu G, Perez S, Zimet G, Rosberger Z. Using Best-Worst Scaling to investigate younger adult Canadians' preferences for COVID-19 vaccination and public health measures: An observational study. Prev Med Rep 2022; 26:101755. [PMID: 35284212 PMCID: PMC8902056 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101755] [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: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Containing the COVID-19 pandemic is dependent on compliance with public health recommendations and mandates which is lower in younger compared to older adults. Furthermore, younger adults have demonstrated lower uptake of COVID-19 vaccines. The aim of this study was to assess preferences for COVID-19 related preventive health measures and vaccination and to explore their association with COVID-19 vaccine acceptability. Canadians aged 18-39 years were invited to participate in a web-based survey in August 2021. We used the Best-Worst-Scaling (BWS) methodology to collect and analyze preference data and multivariable binary logistic regression to estimate associations with vaccine acceptability. Based on 266 complete responses, we found strong preferences for physical distancing and wearing face masks, as compared to general hygiene and respiratory etiquette. High vaccine accessibility independent of the location, receiving successive doses of the same vaccine brand and higher vaccine uptake of people in younger adults' social circle were highly preferred. Higher preferences for mandates requiring proof of vaccination and altruistic motives focused on protecting others by getting vaccinated were associated with vaccine acceptability. As the COVID-19 pandemic waxes and wanes, studies using larger, nationally representative samples are needed to replicate and validate these results to assess preferences for health behaviors corresponding to the latest recommendations. The use of this methodology could provide public health authorities with a unique opportunity to develop targeted, preference-based messaging that aligns with the latest guidelines to effectively encourage compliance and COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ovidiu Tatar
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research (LDI), Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ben Haward
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research (LDI), Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Patricia Zhu
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research (LDI), Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Samara Perez
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research (LDI), Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Health Center (MUHC), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Zeev Rosberger
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research (LDI), Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Departments of Psychology, Psychiatry and Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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15
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Jung J, Ahn Y, Bommarito J. Disparities in COVID-19 health outcomes among different sub-immigrant groups in the US - a study based on the spatial Durbin model. GEOSPATIAL HEALTH 2022; 17. [PMID: 35735946 DOI: 10.4081/gh.2022.1064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Immigrants may be more vulnerable to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) than other sub-population groups due to their relatively low socioeconomic status. However, no quantitative studies have examined the relationships between immigrants and COVID-19 health outcomes (confirmed cases and related deaths). We first examined the relationship between total immigrants and COVID-19 health outcomes with spatial Durbin models after controlling for demographic, biophysical and socioeconomic variables. We then repeated the same analysis within multiple subimmigrant groups divided by those with original nativity to examine the differential associations with health outcomes. The result showed that the proportion of all immigrants is negatively associated with the number of confirmed cases and related deaths. At the continent and sub-continent level, we consistently found negative relationships between the number of confirmed cases and the proportion of all sub-immigrant groups. However, we observed mixed associations between the proportion of sub-immigrant groups and the number of deaths. Those counties having a higher prevalence of immigrants from Africa [Eastern Africa: â€"18.6, 95% confidence interval (CI): â€"38.3~â€"2.9; Northern Africa: â€"146.5, 95% CI: â€"285.5~â€"20.1; Middle Africa: â€"622.6, 95% CI: â€"801.4~â€" 464.5] and the Americas (Northern America: â€"90.5, 95% CI: â€" 106.1~â€"73.8; Latin America: â€"6.8, 95% CI: â€"8.1~â€"5.2) mostly had a lower number of deaths, whereas those counties having a higher prevalence of immigrants from Asia (Eastern Asia: 21.0, 95% CI: 7.7~36.2; Western Asia: 42.5, 95% CI: 16.9~68.8; South- Central Asia: 26.6, 95% CI: 15.5~36.9) showed a higher number of deaths. Our results partially support that some immigrants, especially those from Asia, are more vulnerable to COVID-19 than other sub-population groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihoon Jung
- Department of City and Regional Planning, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC.
| | - Yoonjung Ahn
- Department of Geography, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL.
| | - Joseph Bommarito
- Department of Political Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL.
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16
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Antimicrobial Photodynamic Coatings Reduce the Microbial Burden on Environmental Surfaces in Public Transportation—A Field Study in Buses. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042325. [PMID: 35206511 PMCID: PMC8872155 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Millions of people use public transportation daily worldwide and frequently touch surfaces, thereby producing a reservoir of microorganisms on surfaces increasing the risk of transmission. Constant occupation makes sufficient cleaning difficult to achieve. Thus, an autonomous, permanent, antimicrobial coating (AMC) could keep down the microbial burden on such surfaces. A photodynamic AMC was applied to frequently touched surfaces in buses. The microbial burden (colony forming units, cfu) was determined weekly and compared to equivalent surfaces in buses without AMC (references). The microbial burden ranged from 0–209 cfu/cm2 on references and from 0–54 cfu/cm2 on AMC. The means were 13.4 ± 29.6 cfu/cm2 on references and 4.5 ± 8.4 cfu/cm2 on AMC (p < 0.001). The difference in microbial burden on AMC and references was almost constant throughout the study. Considering a hygiene benchmark of 5 cfu/cm2, the data yield an absolute risk reduction of 22.6% and a relative risk reduction of 50.7%. In conclusion, photodynamic AMC kept down the microbial burden, reducing the risk of transmission of microorganisms. AMC permanently and autonomously contributes to hygienic conditions on surfaces in public transportation. Photodynamic AMC therefore are suitable for reducing the microbial load and closing hygiene gaps in public transportation.
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17
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Impact of the world hand hygiene and global handwashing days on public awareness between 2016 and 2020: Google trends analysis. Am J Infect Control 2022; 50:141-147. [PMID: 34718066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2021.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scientific evidence suggest that hand hygiene as one of the most effective measures to control infection. To promote good hand hygiene practices, the World Health Organization introduced May 5 as World Hand Hygiene Day (WHHD), and international stakeholders established Global Handwashing Day (GHD) on October 15. However, its contributions to raising public awareness of hand hygiene is unclear. METHODS This study evaluates the impact of the WHHD and GHD on the public awareness of hand hygiene in Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and worldwide from 2016 to 2020, using the relative search volume of "Hand hygiene" in Google Trends as a surrogate. To identify a statistically significant timepoint of a trend change, we performed Joinpoint regression analysis. RESULTS Upticks of the relative search volumes as well as joinpoints were noted worldwide around the WHHD and GHD from 2016 to 2019, but no joinpoints were identified around the WHHD and GHD in 2020. No such changes were observed in Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States during these periods. CONCLUSIONS While the WHHD was originally established to raise awareness of hand hygiene in healthcare facilities, our result suggests that the WHHD and GHD may not have effectively disseminated the importance of hand hygiene to the general public at a country level. Additional policy measures to advocate hand hygiene to the public are necessary to communicate its benefits.
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18
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Diouf F, Lemley B, Barth C, Goldbarg J, Helgenberger S, Grimm B, Wartella E, Smyser J, Bonnevie E. Mental Health Stigma Reduction in the Midwestern United States: Evidence from a Digital Campaign Using a Collective Impact Model. J Community Health 2022; 47:924-931. [PMID: 35921054 PMCID: PMC9361981 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-022-01130-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Addressing mental stigma is a key component of improving mental health outcomes. A digital media campaign was implemented to reduce mental health stigma in the Omaha Metropolitan area. The campaign used evidence-based approaches within a collective impact framework. Two surveys were conducted at baseline and at 10-month follow-up to evaluate the campaign within the Omaha and Council Bluffs intervention region, and a control region in Iowa. Analysis revealed significant improvements in desires for social distance and perceptions toward treatment efficacy within the intervention group. Improvements were seen across measures of personal and community attitudes towards mental health conditions, confidence in supporting others, and likelihood of disclosing a mental health condition. The trends were generally not replicated within the control group. Respondents who were aware of the campaign showed fewer stigmatizing views, including lower desires for social distance, improved attitudes toward treatment, and significant improvements in providing support and caring for their own mental health. The results suggest that the implemented evidenced-based approach could potentially create positive shifts in stigma reduction. This evaluation further supports the potential for scaling and adapting digital media campaigns for stigma reduction in different geographic locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Diouf
- The Public Good Projects, 2308 Mt Vernon Ave, Suite 758, Alexandria, VA, 22301, USA
| | | | - Chelsea Barth
- The Public Good Projects, 2308 Mt Vernon Ave, Suite 758, Alexandria, VA, 22301, USA
| | - Jaclyn Goldbarg
- The Public Good Projects, 2308 Mt Vernon Ave, Suite 758, Alexandria, VA, 22301, USA
| | | | - Brandon Grimm
- Public Health Practice, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health, Omaha, NE, USA
| | | | - Joe Smyser
- The Public Good Projects, 2308 Mt Vernon Ave, Suite 758, Alexandria, VA, 22301, USA
| | - Erika Bonnevie
- The Public Good Projects, 2308 Mt Vernon Ave, Suite 758, Alexandria, VA, 22301, USA.
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19
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Ashinyo ME. Ghana beyond the epi-curve: initial lessons learned from the implementation of infection prevention and control measures in the COVID-19 response. Pan Afr Med J 2021; 38:18. [PMID: 34650649 PMCID: PMC8488285 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2021.38.18.26832] [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: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures remain crucial to breaking transmission of the virus in the wake of inconclusive efforts underway to find an effective vaccine and treatment. While acknowledging that many lessons evolve as the pandemic unfolds, an initial understanding and recognition of the complexities that surround IPC policy implementation and adherence is vital for effective control of on-going pandemic in particular and to inform national IPC policies beyond the epi-curve. This short communication therefore seeks to unravel initial thoughts, themes and concepts that have unfolded in the implementation of IPC policies and guidelines in the context of the ongoing outbreak response in Ghana. A rapid desk review was done. Reflexive journals, field notes, observations and workshop experiences were compiled and overlapped with authors' experience as a member of the COVID-19 national response team for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). Thematic content analysis was then used to categorize the lessons into common themes. While aligning with global strategies, the concept of 'looking within' for initial solutions and strengths have proven useful for a public health emergency response in Ghana. Future IPC policies must inculcate perspectives from the politics and economics of IPC practices and employ varieties of multidisciplinary approaches required to broaden the scope of IPC practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Eyram Ashinyo
- Department of Quality Assurance, Institutional Care Division, Ghana Health Service Headquarters, Private Mail bag, Accra, Ghana
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20
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Rumahorbo H, Priyanto P, Karjatin A. A Cross-sectional Online Survey on Public Attitudes towards Wearing Face Masks and Washing Hands to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 in Indonesia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.6907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 infection spreads quickly and easily, hence people are required to obey health protocols. Attitudes play an important role in building people’s readiness to use face masks and wash hands.
AIM: The study aims at analyzing several factors influencing people’s attitudes towards wearing face masks and washing hands in Indonesia.
METHODS: The study employs a cross-sectional online survey involving 400 adult respondents in the Java region from July to September 2020.
RESULTS: Of 400 respondents, 54.3% showed positive attitudes toward wearing face masks and 59.3% towards washing hands. The multivariate analysis showed that people’s attitudes towards wearing face masks were influenced by age and knowledge. Respondents aged 36–45 years old had positive attitudes on wearing face masks 3.9 times (p = 0.038) and aged ≥46 years old 4.1 times (p = 0.039) compared to aged 18–35 years old. Furthermore, attitudes on washing hands were influenced by gender, age groups, and knowledge. Female had positive attitudes towards washing hands 1.7 times (p = 0.029) compared to male. Respondents aged 36–45 years old had positive attitudes on washing hands 5 times (p = 0.037) and aged ≥46 years old 4.8 times (p = 0.05) compared to aged 18–35 years old. Knowledge acted as the confounding factor.
CONCLUSION: The age and knowledge factors influenced positive attitude of using masks and washing hands were influenced by gender, age, and knowledge. Health education programs are recommended to increase knowledge about COVID-19, this is very helpful for the young generation of Indonesia to have a positive attitude.
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21
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Montgomery MP, Carry MG, Garcia‐Williams AG, Marshall B, Besrat B, Bejarano F, Carlson J, Rutledge T, Mosites E. Hand hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic among people experiencing homelessness-Atlanta, Georgia, 2020. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 49:2441-2453. [PMID: 33899228 PMCID: PMC8242516 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
People experiencing homelessness are at risk for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and may experience barriers to hand hygiene, a primary recommendation for COVID-19 prevention. We conducted in-depth interviews with 51 people experiencing sheltered and unsheltered homelessness in Atlanta, Georgia during May 2020 to August 2020 to (1) describe challenges and opportunities related to hand hygiene and (2) assess hand hygiene communication preferences. The primary hand hygiene barrier reported was limited access to facilities and supplies, which has disproportionately impacted people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. This lack of access has reportedly been exacerbated during COVID-19 by the closure of public facilities and businesses. Increased access to housing and employment were identified as long-term solutions to improving hand hygiene. Overall, participants expressed a preference for access to facilities and supplies over hand hygiene communication materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha P. Montgomery
- COVID‐19 Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Monique G. Carry
- COVID‐19 Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | | | - Brittany Marshall
- COVID‐19 Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Bethlehem Besrat
- COVID‐19 Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | | | | | - Ty Rutledge
- Intown Collaborative MinistriesAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Emily Mosites
- COVID‐19 Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
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22
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Natnael T, Adane M, Alemnew Y, Andualem A, Hailu F. COVID-19 knowledge, attitude and frequent hand hygiene practices among taxi drivers and associated factors in urban areas of Ethiopia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253452. [PMID: 34359068 PMCID: PMC8346291 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although several studies have been conducted on COVID-19 knowledge, attitude and prevention practices among healthcare workers and the general population, there has not been any study among taxi drivers in Ethiopia, including Dessie City and Kombolcha Town, the lack of which hinders providing evidence-based interventions to this target group. Thus, this study was designed to contribute to proper planning of COVID-19 intervention measures among taxi drivers in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town, Ethiopia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 417 taxi drivers in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town during July to August, 2020. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire and an observational checklist. The collected data was checked, coded and entered to EpiData version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 for data cleaning and analysis. The outcome variables of this study were good or poor knowledge, positive or negative attitude and good or poor frequent hand hygiene practices towards COVID-19. Bivariate (Crude Odds Ratio [COR]) and multivariable (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]) logistic regression analysis were employed to identify factors significantly associated with good knowledge, positive attitude and good frequent hand hygiene practices among taxi drivers. Significance level of variables was declared at a p < 0.05 from the adjusted analysis. MAIN FINDINGS Out of the total 417 taxi drivers, 69.8% [95% CI: 65.2-73.9], 67.6% [95%CI: 63.1-72.2] and 66.4% [95% CI: 62.1-71.0] of the drivers had good knowledge, positive attitude and good frequent hand hygiene practices, respectively. Educational level (AOR = 7.55, 95% CI = 4.55-12.54), place of residence (AOR = 5.41, 95% CI = 1.4-20.08) and attitude towards COVID-19 prevention (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.02-2.74) were factors associated with good knowledge about COVID-19. Further, age of taxi drivers greater than 30 years (AOR = 3.01, 95% CI = 1.76-5.13), educational level of secondary or above (AOR = 3.16, 95% CI = 1.88-5.31), income (AOR = 3.36, 95% CI = 1.48-7.61), and knowledge about COVID-19 (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.21-3.54) were factors associated with positive attitude towards COVID-19 prevention. In addition, attitude towards COVID-19 (AOR = 5.5, 95% CI = 3.40-8.88) and educational level (AOR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.15-2.95) were the factors associated with good frequent hand hygiene practices. CONCLUSION We concluded that the rates of good knowledge, positive attitude and good frequent hand hygiene practices were relatively low among taxi drivers in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town. We strongly recommended providing training about COVID-19 prevention measures for taxi drivers that considers age, education status and attitude areas essential to improve their knowledge, attitude and frequent hand hygiene practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarikuwa Natnael
- Department of Environmental Health, 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
| | - Yeshiwork Alemnew
- Department of Biology, College of Natural 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
| | - Faris Hailu
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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23
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Ioannou P, Karakonstantis S, Mathioudaki A, Sourris A, Papakosta V, Panagopoulos P, Petrakis V, Papazoglou D, Arvaniti K, Trakatelli CM, Christodoulou E, Poulakou G, Syrigos KN, Rapti V, Leontis K, Karapiperis D, Kofteridis DP. Knowledge and Perceptions about COVID-19 among Health Care Workers: Evidence from COVID-19 Hospitals during the Second Pandemic Wave. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:136. [PMID: 34287390 PMCID: PMC8293362 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6030136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Health care workers (HCWs) face a higher risk of infection, since they work at the front line of COVID-19 patients' management. Misinterpretations of current scientific evidence among HCWs may impact the delivery of appropriate care to COVID-19 patients and increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in the hospital setting. Moreover, knowledge may affect HCWs perceptions depending on their broad beliefs and past experiences. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge and perceptions of HCWs regarding COVID-19 issues during the second wave of the pandemic. A cross-sectional survey, involving a printed questionnaire, was conducted from 21 October 2020 to 31 January 2021 in four tertiary care hospitals located at four distant geographical regions in Greece. In total, 294 HCWs participated in this study. The majority of HCWs provided precise responses regarding general knowledge, perceptions, and practices concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. However, responses on hand hygiene and antimicrobial use in HCWs with COVID-19 were mistaken. This study reveals a certain degree of misconceptions and knowledge gaps in HCWs everyday practice, especially regarding hand hygiene and antimicrobial use in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Ioannou
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece; (P.I.); (S.K.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Stamatis Karakonstantis
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece; (P.I.); (S.K.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Anna Mathioudaki
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece; (P.I.); (S.K.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Angelos Sourris
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece; (P.I.); (S.K.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Vasiliki Papakosta
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece; (P.I.); (S.K.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Periklis Panagopoulos
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupoli, 68100 Alexandroupoli, Greece; (P.P.); (V.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Vasilis Petrakis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupoli, 68100 Alexandroupoli, Greece; (P.P.); (V.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Dimitrios Papazoglou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupoli, 68100 Alexandroupoli, Greece; (P.P.); (V.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Kostoula Arvaniti
- Infection Control Unit, COVID-19 Coordinating Team, General Hospital Papageorgiou, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (C.M.T.); (E.C.)
| | - Christina Maria Trakatelli
- Infection Control Unit, COVID-19 Coordinating Team, General Hospital Papageorgiou, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (C.M.T.); (E.C.)
| | - Evgenia Christodoulou
- Infection Control Unit, COVID-19 Coordinating Team, General Hospital Papageorgiou, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (C.M.T.); (E.C.)
| | - Garyfallia Poulakou
- Third Department of Medicine, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.P.); (K.N.S.); (V.R.); (K.L.)
| | - Konstantinos N. Syrigos
- Third Department of Medicine, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.P.); (K.N.S.); (V.R.); (K.L.)
| | - Vasiliki Rapti
- Third Department of Medicine, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.P.); (K.N.S.); (V.R.); (K.L.)
| | - Konstantinos Leontis
- Third Department of Medicine, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.P.); (K.N.S.); (V.R.); (K.L.)
| | - Dimitrios Karapiperis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, 424 General Military Teaching Hospital, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Diamantis P. Kofteridis
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece; (P.I.); (S.K.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (V.P.)
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24
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Chen L, Chang K. A novel corpus-based computing method for handling critical word-ranking issues: An example of COVID-19 research articles. INT J INTELL SYST 2021; 36:3190-3216. [PMID: 38607844 PMCID: PMC8207067 DOI: 10.1002/int.22413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A corpus is a massive body of structured textual data that are stored and operated electronically. It usually combines with statistics, machine learning algorithms, or artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to explore the semantic relationship between lexical units, and beneficial when applied to language learning, information processing, translation, and so forth. In the face of a novel disease, like, COVID-19, establishing medical-specific corpus will enhance frontline medical personnel's information acquisition efficiency, guiding them on the right approaches to respond to and prevent the novel disease. To effectively retrieve critical messages from the corpus, appropriately handling word-ranking issues is quite crucial. However, traditional frequency-based approaches may cause bias in handling word-ranking issues because they neither optimize the corpus nor integrally take words' frequency dispersion and concentration criteria into consideration. Thus, this paper develops a novel corpus-based approach that combines a corpus software and Hirsch index (H-index) algorithm to handle the aforementioned issues simultaneously, making word-ranking processes more accurate. This paper compiled 100 COVID-19-related research articles as an empirical example of the target corpus. To verify the proposed approach, this study compared the results of two traditional frequency-based approaches and the proposed approach. The results indicate that the proposed approach can refine corpus and simultaneously compute words' frequency dispersion and concentration criteria in handling word-ranking issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang‐Ching Chen
- Department of Foreign LanguagesR.O.C. Military AcademyKaohsiungTaiwan
- Institute of Education, National Sun Yat‐sen UniversityKaohsiungTaiwan
| | - Kuei‐Hu Chang
- Department of Management SciencesR.O.C. Military AcademyKaohsiungTaiwan
- Institute of Innovation and Circular Economy, Asia UniversityTaichungTaiwan
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25
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Ng BP, Park C. Accessibility of Telehealth Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Medicare Beneficiaries. Prev Chronic Dis 2021; 18:E65. [PMID: 34197284 PMCID: PMC8269753 DOI: 10.5888/pcd18.210056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Telehealth plays a role in the continuum of care, especially for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objective was to examine factors associated with the accessibility of telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic among older adults. Methods We analyzed the nationally representative Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey COVID-19 Rapid Response Supplement Questionnaire of beneficiaries aged 65 years or older. Two weighted multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine associations between usual providers who offered telehealth 1) during the COVID-19 pandemic and 2) to replace a regularly scheduled appointment. We examined factors including sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and digital access and literacy. Results Of the beneficiaries (n = 6,172, weighted n = 32.4 million), 81.2% reported that their usual providers offered telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among those offered telehealth services, 56.8% reported that their usual providers offered telehealth to replace a regularly scheduled appointment. Disparities in accessibility of telehealth services by sex, residing area (metropolitan vs nonmetropolitan), income level, and US Census region were observed. Beneficiaries who reported having internet access (vs no access) (OR, 1.75, P < .001) and who reported ever having participated in video, voice, or conference calls over the internet before (vs not) (OR, 2.18, P < .001) were more likely to report having access to telehealth. Non-Hispanic Black beneficiaries (versus White) (OR, 1.57, P = .007) and beneficiaries with comorbidities (vs none) (eg, 2 or 3 comorbidities, OR, 1.25, 95% P = .044) were more likely to have their usual provider offer telehealth to replace a regularly scheduled appointment. Conclusion Although accessibility of telehealth has increased, inequities raise concern. Educational outreach and training, such as installing and launching an online web conferencing platform, should be considered for improving accessibility of telehealth to vulnerable populations beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boon Peng Ng
- College of Nursing, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.,Disability, Aging, and Technology Cluster, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.,College of Nursing, Aging and Technology Cluster, University of Central Florida, 12201 Research Pkwy, Ste 300, Orlando, FL 32826.
| | - Chanhyun Park
- Department of Pharmacy and Health Systems Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts.,Now affiliated with Health Outcomes Division, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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26
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Monzani D, Marinucci M, Pancani L, Rusconi P, Mazzoni D, Pravettoni G. Thinking of future as an older individual increases perceived risks for age-related diseases but not for COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 57:96-106. [PMID: 34169518 PMCID: PMC8426922 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12789] [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: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Actively thinking of one's future as an older individual could increase perceived risk and risk aversion. This could be particularly relevant for COVID‐19, if we consider the common representation of the risk of being infected by COVID‐19 as associated with being older. Increased perceived risk could bear consequences on the adoption of preventive behaviours. Thus, we investigated whether increasing the salience of individuals' future as an older adult would impact on their perceived risk for COVID‐19 and medical conditions varying for age‐relatedness. One hundred and forty‐four Italian adults (Mage = 27.72, range: 18–56) were randomly assigned to either a future as older adult thinking or control condition. Perceived risk for COVID‐19 and other strongly, and weakly age‐related medical conditions during the lifetime was measured. Results showed that thinking about the future as an older adult increased perceived risk for strongly and weakly age‐related diseases, but not for COVID‐19. The salience of the COVID‐19 outbreak may have raised the perceived risks in both experimental conditions, making the manipulation ineffective. In conclusion, manipulating future‐oriented thinking might be a successful communication strategy to increase people's perceived risk of common diseases, but it might not work for highly salient pathologies such as COVID‐19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Monzani
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Marinucci
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano - Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Pancani
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano - Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrice Rusconi
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.,Department of Cognitive Sciences, Psychology, Education and Cultural Studies (COSPECS), University of Messina, Italy
| | - Davide Mazzoni
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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27
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Ng BP, Park C. The Role of Media Sources for COVID-19 Information on Engaging in Recommended Preventive Behaviors among Medicare Beneficiaries Aged ≥ 65 Years. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 77:e191-e198. [PMID: 33963746 PMCID: PMC8136010 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The public relies on various media sources and communication platforms for receipt of COVID-19 information. Therefore, identifying the primary sources of COVID-19 information among older adults can be valuable, as it can enable information on life-saving measures to be effectively disseminated to this population. METHODS We analyzed the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey COVID-19 Supplement that was administrated from June 2020 through July 2020 (n=8,050). A survey-weighted logistic model was conducted to examine the association between sources of COVID-19 information Medicare beneficiaries most relied on (i.e., traditional news sources, social media, comments/guidance from government officials, other webpages/internet, friends/family members, and health care providers) and engaging in all three recommended preventive behaviors (i.e., mask wearing, social distancing, and handwashing). RESULTS Among study participants, 89.8% engaged in all three recommended preventive behaviors. Approximately 59.3% of beneficiaries reported that they most relied upon traditional news sources for COVID-19 information; 11.4% reported health care providers; 10.6% reported comments/guidance from government officials; 8.8% reported other webpages/internet, 8.6% reported friends/family members; and 1.3% reported they relied upon social media. Beneficiaries who relied on comments/guidance from government officials for COVID-19 information (vs. traditional news sources) were more likely to engage in preventive behaviors (OR=1.68, 95% CI=1.20,2.35). However, those who relied on COVID-19 information from friends/family members (vs. traditional news sources) were less likely to engage in preventive behaviors (OR=0.56, 95% CI=0.44,0.73). DISCUSSION Our findings can inform decision making about the effective communication sources to reach Medicare beneficiaries for public health messaging regarding preventive measures, including COVID-19 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boon Peng Ng
- College of Nursing, University of Central Florida.,Disability, Aging, and Technology Cluster, University of Central Florida
| | - Chanhyun Park
- Department of Pharmacy and Health Systems Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University
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28
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Juhn YJ, Wi CI, Ryu E, Sampathkumar P, Takahashi PY, Yao JD, Binnicker MJ, Natoli TL, Evans TK, King KS, Volpe S, Pirçon JY, Silvia Damaso, Pignolo RJ. Adherence to Public Health Measures Mitigates the Risk of COVID-19 Infection in Older Adults: A Community-Based Study. Mayo Clin Proc 2021; 96:912-920. [PMID: 33714601 PMCID: PMC7768210 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.12.016] [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] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence and characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases during the reopening period in older adults, given that little is known about the prevalence of COVID-19 after the stay-at-home order was lifted in the United States, nor the actual effects of adherence to recommended public health measures (RPHM) on the risk of COVID-19. PATIENTS AND METHODS This was a cross-sectional study nested in a parent prospective cohort study, which followed a population-based sample of 2325 adults 50 years and older residing in southeast Minnesota to assess the incidence of viral infections. Participants were instructed to self-collect both nasal and oropharyngeal swabs, which were tested by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction-based severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) assay between May 8, 2020, and June, 30, 2020. We assessed the prevalence of COVID-19 cases and characteristics of study subjects. RESULTS A total of 1505 eligible subjects participated in the study whose mean age was 68 years, with 885 (59%) women, 32 (2%) racial/ethnic minorities, and 906 (60%) with high-risk conditions for influenza. The prevalence of other Coronaviridae (human coronavirus [HCoV]-229E, HCoV-NL63, and HCoV-OC43) during the 2019 to 2020 flu season was 109 (7%), and none tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Almost all participants reported adhering to the RPHM (1,488 [99%] for social distancing, 1,438 [96%] for wearing mask in a public space, 1,476 [98%] for hand hygiene, and 1,441 (96%) for staying home mostly). Eighty-six percent of participants resided in a single-family home. CONCLUSION We did not identify SARS-COV-2 infection in our study cohort. The combination of participants' behavior in following the RPHM and their living environment may considerably mitigate the risk of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young J Juhn
- Department of Pediatric and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| | - Chung-Il Wi
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Euijung Ryu
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Paul Y Takahashi
- Division of Community Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Joseph D Yao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Traci L Natoli
- Department of Medicine Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Tamara K Evans
- Department of Medicine Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Katherine S King
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | | | | | - Robert J Pignolo
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
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Gharpure R, Miller GF, Hunter CM, Schnall AH, Kunz J, Garcia-Williams AG. Safe Use and Storage of Cleaners, Disinfectants, and Hand Sanitizers: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among U.S. Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic, May 2020. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 104:496-501. [PMID: 33377450 PMCID: PMC7866329 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and frequent hand hygiene are recommended measures to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, poison center calls regarding exposures to cleaners, disinfectants, and hand sanitizers have increased as compared with prior years, indicating a need to evaluate household safety precautions. An opt-in Internet panel survey of 502 U.S. adults was conducted in May 2020. Survey items evaluated knowledge regarding use and storage of cleaners, disinfectants, and hand sanitizers; attitudes about household cleaning and disinfection; and safety precautions practiced during the prior month. We assigned a knowledge score to each respondent to quantify knowledge of safety precautions and calculated median scores by demographic characteristics and attitudes. We identified gaps in knowledge regarding safe use and storage of cleaners, disinfectants, and hand sanitizers; the overall median knowledge score was 5.17 (95% CI: 4.85-5.50; maximum 9.00). Knowledge scores were lower among younger than older age-groups and among black non-Hispanic and Hispanic respondents compared with white non-Hispanic respondents. A greater proportion of respondents expressed knowledge of safety precautions than the proportion who engaged in these precautions. Tailored communication strategies should be used to reach populations with lower knowledge of cleaning and disinfection safety. In addition, as knowledge alone did not shape individual engagement in safety precautions, health promotion campaigns may specifically emphasize the health risks of unsafe use and storage of cleaners, disinfectants, and hand sanitizers to address risk perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Gharpure
- COVID-19 Response, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Gabrielle F. Miller
- COVID-19 Response, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Candis M. Hunter
- COVID-19 Response, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Amy H. Schnall
- National Center for Environmental Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jasen Kunz
- COVID-19 Response, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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