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Ketoja JA, Saurio K, Rautkoski H, Kenttä E, Tanaka A, Koponen AI, Virkajärvi J, Heinonen K, Kostamo K, Järvenpää A, Hyry N, Heikkilä P, Hankonen N, Harlin A. Design of biodegradable cellulose filtration material with high efficiency and breathability. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 336:122133. [PMID: 38670771 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122133] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Using respiratory protective equipment is one of the relevant preventive measures for infectious diseases, including COVID-19, and for various occupational respiratory hazards. Because experienced discomfort may result in a decrease in the utilization of respirators, it is important to enhance the material properties to resolve suboptimal usage. We combined several technologies to produce a filtration material that met requirements set by a cross-disciplinary interview study on the usability of protective equipment. Improved breathability, environmental sustainability, and comfort of the material were achieved by electrospinning poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) nanofibers on a thin foam-formed fabric from regenerated cellulose fibers. The high filtration efficiency of sub-micron-sized diethylhexyl sebacate (DEHS) aerosol particles resulted from the small mean segment length of 0.35 μm of the nanofiber network. For a particle diameter of 0.6 μm, the filtration efficiency of a single PEO layer varied in the range of 80-97 % depending on the coat weight. The corresponding pressure drop had the level of 20-90 Pa for the airflow velocity of 5.3 cm/s. Using a multilayer structure, a very high filtration efficiency of 99.5 % was obtained with only a slightly higher pressure drop. This opens a route toward designing sustainable personal protective media with improved user experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jukka A Ketoja
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland.
| | - Kaisa Saurio
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Finland
| | - Hille Rautkoski
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Eija Kenttä
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Antti I Koponen
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Jussi Virkajärvi
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Kimmo Heinonen
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Katri Kostamo
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Finland
| | - Anastasia Järvenpää
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Niina Hyry
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Pirjo Heikkilä
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | | | - Ali Harlin
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
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Wang CW, de Jong EP, Faure JA, Ellington JL, Chen CHS, Chan CC. Exploring the Barriers and Facilitators of Mask-Wearing Behavior During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Taiwan, the United States, the Netherlands, and Haiti: A Qualitative Study. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2024; 18:e23. [PMID: 38351541 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2024.4] [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] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored the barriers and facilitators of mask-wearing behaviors during the pandemic in Taiwan, the United States, the Netherlands, and Haiti. METHODS Face-to-face interviews were conducted in Taiwan and online interviews were conducted with participants in the United States, the Netherlands, and Haiti. RESULTS In general, the habit of wearing a mask before coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported by Taiwanese participants. Additionally, Taiwanese participants perceived that wearing a mask was a social responsibility during the pandemic, suggesting that the collectivistic context might influence mask-wearing behavior. Unlike the Taiwanese population, some people in the United States and the Netherlands were reluctant to wear masks due to perceived restrictions on their freedom. Participants from Haiti mentioned that people who wore masks encountered violence, bullying, and discrimination. The results of this study suggest that political leadership and mask mandates have a strong impact on people's mask-wearing behavior. CONCLUSIONS These findings have valuable implications for the design of diverse behavioral interventions to enhance mask-wearing as part of infectious disease preparedness. Additionally, the findings from these countries offer valuable insights for the development of effective public health interventions to enhance society's resilience during the current pandemic and future infectious disease outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Wen Wang
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
- Lloyd's Register Foundation Institute for the Public Understanding of Risk, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Erik Pieter de Jong
- Global Health Program, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Josemyrne Ashley Faure
- Global Health Program, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Chi-Hsin Sally Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Chuan Chan
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Global Health Program, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Dantuluri KL, Buahin A, Uschner D, DeWitt ME, Rossman W, Dunn CO, Hetherington TC, Priem J, Castri P, Lagarde WH, Gibbs M, Ahmed A. Association of social vulnerability index and masking adherence among children enrolled in COVID-19 community research partnership study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:410. [PMID: 38331791 PMCID: PMC10854168 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17931-1] [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: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with high social vulnerability index (SVI) have poorer outcomes with COVID-19. Masking reduces transmission of COVID-19 among children, but how SVI plays a role in masking behavior is unknown. We aimed to measure the association of SVI with masking adherence among children during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a multi-site, prospective syndromic surveillance study among children aged 2 - 17 years in the Southeastern United States by daily electronic surveys which solicited symptoms of COVID-19-like illness, infection with or exposure to SARS-CoV-2, masking habits, and any receipt of COVID-19 vaccines. Parents/guardians submitted surveys for their children; adolescents 13 years and older could opt to submit their own surveys. Multivariable and univariate linear models were used to measure the associations of different predictors such as SVI with masking adherence. RESULTS One thousand four hundred sixty-one children from 6 states and 55 counties predominately from North and South Carolina were included in the analysis. Most children in the cohort were 5 - 11 years old, non-Hispanic White, from urban counties, and with low-moderate SVI. Overall masking adherence decreased over time, and older children had higher masking adherence throughout the study period compared with younger children. Children who resided in urban counties had greater masking adherence throughout the study period than those who resided in suburban or rural counties. Masking adherence was higher among children with both low and medium SVI than those with high SVI. CONCLUSIONS Despite being at risk for more severe outcomes with COVID-19, children with high SVI had lower levels of masking adherence compared to those with low SVI. Our findings highlight opportunities for improved and targeted messaging in these vulnerable communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keerti L Dantuluri
- Department of Pediatrics (Infectious Diseases) at Levine Children's Hospital and Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Atrium Health, 1001 Blythe Blvd, Medical Education Building, P.O. Box 32861, Charlotte, NC, 28203, USA.
| | - Asare Buahin
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics and The Biostatistics Center at The George Washington University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Diane Uschner
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics and The Biostatistics Center at The George Washington University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Michael E DeWitt
- Section on Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and the Department of Biology, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Whitney Rossman
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation at Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Connell O Dunn
- Department of Emergency Medicine Research at Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Priem
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation at Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Paola Castri
- Department of Neurology (Pediatric Neurology) at Wake Forest Baptist, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - William H Lagarde
- Department of Pediatrics (Endocrinology) at WakeMed, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Michael Gibbs
- Department of Emergency Medicine at Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Amina Ahmed
- Department of Pediatrics (Infectious Diseases) at Levine Children's Hospital and Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Atrium Health, 1001 Blythe Blvd, Medical Education Building, P.O. Box 32861, Charlotte, NC, 28203, USA
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Silverman RA, Short D, Wenzel S, Friesen MA, Cook NE. COVID-19 related messaging, beliefs, information sources, and mitigation behaviors in Virginia: a cross-sectional survey in the summer of 2020. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16714. [PMID: 38213767 PMCID: PMC10782956 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Conflicting messages and misleading information related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic (SARS-CoV-2) have hindered mitigation efforts. It is important that trust in evidence-based public health information be maintained to effectively continue pandemic mitigation strategies. Officials, researchers, and the public can benefit from exploring how people receive information they believe and trust, and how their beliefs influence their behaviors. Methods To gain insight and inform effective evidence-based public health messaging, we distributed an anonymous online cross-sectional survey from May to July, 2020 to Virginia residents, 18 years of age or older. Participants were surveyed about their perceptions of COVID-19, risk mitigation behaviors, messages and events they felt influenced their beliefs and behaviors, and where they obtained information that they trust. The survey also collected socio-demographic information, including gender, age, race, ethnicity, level of education, income, employment status, occupation, changes in employment due to the pandemic, political affiliation, sexual orientation, and zip code. Analyses included specific focus on the most effective behavioral measures: wearing a face mask and distancing in public. Results Among 3,488 respondents, systematic differences were observed in information sources that people trust, events that impacted beliefs and behaviors, and how behaviors changed by socio-demographics, political identity, and geography within Virginia. Characteristics significantly associated (p < 0.025) with not wearing a mask in public included identifying as non-Hispanic white, male, Republican political identity, younger age, lower income, not trusting national science and health organizations, believing one or more non-evidence-based messages, and residing in Southwest Virginia in logistic regression. Similar, lesser in magnitude correlations, were observed for distancing in public. Conclusions This study describes how information sources considered trustworthy vary across different populations and identities, and how these differentially correspond to beliefs and behaviors. This study can assist decision makers and the public to improve and effectively target public health messaging related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and future public health challenges in Virginia and similar jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A. Silverman
- Statistics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | - Danielle Short
- Population Health Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | - Sophie Wenzel
- Population Health Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | | | - Natalie E. Cook
- Population Health Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
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Simwinga M, Mahlatsi PA, Molale M, Witola G, Mshanga I, Katende B, Amstutz A, Reither K, Shanaube K, Motlomelo M, Bond V, Belus JM. Facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 testing in community and clinical settings: Lessons learned from Lesotho and Zambia. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002430. [PMID: 37874783 PMCID: PMC10597474 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
The sudden emergence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) had a devastating impact on health systems and population health globally. To combat the spread of COVID-19, countries enacted guidelines and safety measures, including testing, contact tracing, and quarantine. It was unclear the extent to which uptake of COVID-19 testing and other health initiatives would be accepted in countries with a history of dealing with widespread communicable disease transmission such as HIV or Tuberculosis. The objective of this study was to understand and compare the facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 testing at hospital sites in two rural communities in Lesotho and community spaces (referred to as hubs) in one urban community in Zambia during active phases of COVID-19 pandemic. Individual interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were held during March-October 2021 to explore facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 testing. FGDs with 105 community members and health care workers, and 16 individual interviews with key informants and four mystery shoppers were conducted across the two countries. In Zambia, four mystery shopper observations, and eight hub observations were also conducted. Individual country codebooks were developed and combined; thematic analyses were then conducted using the combined codebook. Findings were compared across the two countries, and most were consistent across the two countries. Two primary themes emerged that related to both barriers and facilitators: (1) structural conditions; (2) social implications and attitudes. The structural conditions that operated as barriers in both countries included public health isolation measures and misinformation. In Lesotho, the cost of tests was an additional barrier. The only structural facilitators were in Zambia where the community hubs were found to be accessible and convenient. The social implication barriers related to fear of isolation, stigma, and mental health implications because of quarantine, perceived pain of the test, and compromised privacy. Social facilitators that led to people testing included experiencing COVID-19 firsthand and knowing people who had died because of COVID-19. Across both countries, primary barriers and facilitators to COVID-19 related to structural conditions and social implications and attitudes. Public health measures can be at odds with social and economic realities; pandemic response should balance public health control and the socio-economic needs. Data from Zambia revealed that community-based settings have the potential to increase uptake of testing services. Community-based campaigns to normalize and reduce stigma for COVID-19 testing services are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Alain Amstutz
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- CLEAR Methods Center, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Klaus Reither
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Virginia Bond
- Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer M. Belus
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Hill AV, Dyer HP, Gianakas J, Howze R, King A, Gary-Webb TL, Méndez DD. Correlates of COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in Black Adults Residing in Allegheny County, PA. Health Equity 2023; 7:419-429. [PMID: 37638118 PMCID: PMC10457607 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2022.0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Efforts to address vaccine uptake and access among black adults will be relevant for continued coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) eradication efforts and can be transferable to other prevention efforts in future pandemics. This study investigated factors related to COVID-19 vaccine uptake and access among black residents in Allegheny County, PA. Methods Surveys were administered electronically from October 2021 to January 2022 to black Allegheny County residents aged 18 and older. Questions included thoughts on COVID mitigation strategies (e.g., masking, social distancing), vaccination status, intention to vaccinate children, trust of COVID-19 information sources and vaccines, family needs, access to support services, and social media use to access information. Descriptive statistics and significant correlates of being vaccinated using adjusted logistic regression models are reported. Results Of the overall sample (N=397), the majority were fully vaccinated (n=306, 77%). Fully vaccinated participants were more likely to be female (62.5%, p=0.010), age 60 years or older (34.3%, p=0.0002), have some college education (23.2%, p<0.0001), and be employed full time (50.0%, p=0.0001) compared with nonvaccinated individuals. Among the unvaccinated participants (n=91), the primary reason was fear of illness (8.9%), long-term effects (6.5%), mistrust in the vaccine (6.3%), and needing more information (4.5%). Vaccine-hesitant participants were more likely to be unvaccinated (adjusted odds ratio=2.3, 95% confidence interval 1.25-4.14) after adjusting for age, education, employment, insurance, health status, and income. Conclusion Vaccine hesitancy may be improved by directly addressing fear of illness resulting from vaccines and improving clarity in the vaccine development and approval process to improve uptake among black adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley V. Hill
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Black Equity Coalition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Harika P. Dyer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Black Equity Coalition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - John Gianakas
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Epidemiology Data Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ruth Howze
- Black Equity Coalition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ayanna King
- Black Equity Coalition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tiffany L. Gary-Webb
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Black Equity Coalition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dara D. Méndez
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Black Equity Coalition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Lertsakulbunlue S, Kittisarapong P, Pikulkaew S, Pusayapaibul P, Tangtongsoonthorn A, Wichaiboon C, Amornchatchawankul F, Marsook S, Mahaisawariya S, Subwongcharoen N, Petcharat P, Luksanasup B, Lortharaprasert T, Tieantanyatip B, Kantiwong A, Jongcherdchootrakul K. What Sustains Mask-Wearing Behavior among Elders in a Rural Community in the Post-COVID-19 Era: An Exploratory Mixed-Methods Study. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:678. [PMID: 37622818 PMCID: PMC10451204 DOI: 10.3390/bs13080678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study investigates the factors influencing face-mask-wearing practices among elderly individuals in rural Thailand. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving qualitative interviews with 15 elderly participants and a subsequent survey of 201 elders. Seven subthemes were identified, including the perceived benefits of mask-wearing, the perceived threat of COVID-19, mask-wearing enhancing attractiveness and self-confidence, social norms, misconceptions about COVID-19 prevention tools, perceived barriers to mask-wearing, and resources to afford face masks. The developed themes, codes, and quotes were utilized for creating a questionnaire. The survey revealed the adherence of 81.1% of the participants to mask-wearing. Structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis demonstrated that motivation, comprising (1) the perceived threat of COVID-19, (2) alternative threats aside from COVID-19, and (3) the perceived benefits of a face mask strongly affected mask-wearing practices (β = 0.68, p < 0.001) and the willingness to wear a face mask (β = 0.61, p < 0.001). Social norms had a negative direct effect on the perceived barrier (β = -0.48, p < 0.001) and a positive direct effect on mask-wearing practices (β = 0.25, p = 0.001). This study highlights that motivation and social norms play pivotal roles in sustaining mask-wearing behavior among rural elderly populations. Encouraging local cooperative actions through community rules could initiate behavioral changes within the community. These findings contribute to the understanding of factors influencing mask-wearing and provide insights into designing effective interventions to promote mask-wearing among elderly individuals in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sethapong Lertsakulbunlue
- Department of Pharmacology, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (S.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Pinyada Kittisarapong
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Sirikorn Pikulkaew
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Pree Pusayapaibul
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Apisit Tangtongsoonthorn
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Chanunpisut Wichaiboon
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Fasai Amornchatchawankul
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Suranuch Marsook
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Supakrit Mahaisawariya
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Nattasit Subwongcharoen
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Phitchayut Petcharat
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Bannawit Luksanasup
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Thakornphong Lortharaprasert
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Bavorn Tieantanyatip
- Medical Cadet, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (P.K.); (S.P.); (P.P.); (A.T.); (C.W.); (F.A.); (S.M.); (S.M.); (N.S.); (P.P.); (B.L.); (T.L.); (B.T.)
| | - Anupong Kantiwong
- Department of Pharmacology, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (S.L.); (A.K.)
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Laroche E, Fournier PS, Ouedraogo NC. Prediction of compliance with preventive measures among teachers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. TECHNOLOGICAL FORECASTING AND SOCIAL CHANGE 2023; 192:122564. [PMID: 37065093 PMCID: PMC10080279 DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2023.122564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to examine, in primary and high schools, teachers' compliance with preventive infection control measures (in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic). Inspired by the technology acceptance model (TAM) and occupational health and safety (OHS) literature on personal protective equipment (PPE) use, we propose a model of compliance with preventive measures among teachers. Data were collected following an observational, cross-sectional design. The data for the study were collected via a questionnaire survey of teachers working in the province of Quebec, Canada. To study the impact of the explanatory variables on the dependent variable, we developed a multiple linear regression model. This model was estimated to assess the preventive measures as a whole (six items). Results show that having tested positive for a COVID test in the last year, judging that the situation does not require the use of the mask or the protective glasses, training received on preventive measures, factors related to comfort and use of protective eyewear, as well as age influence teacher compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Laroche
- Faculty of Administrative Sciences, Laval University, Pavillon Palasis-Prince (local 0523), 2325 rue de la Terrasse, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Pierre-Sébastien Fournier
- Faculty of Administrative Sciences, Laval University, Pavillon Palasis-Prince (local 0523), 2325 rue de la Terrasse, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Nafissatou Cynthia Ouedraogo
- Faculty of Administrative Sciences, Laval University, Pavillon Palasis-Prince (local 0523), 2325 rue de la Terrasse, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
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Zaildo T, Santino TA, Chaves G, da Silva BAK, Alchieri JC, Patino CM, Leite S, Luz KG, Guerra RO, da Penha THS, da Silva GR, Jácome AC, Monteiro KS, de Mendonça KMPP. Barriers to and facilitators of populational adherence to prevention and control measures of COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Eur Respir Rev 2023; 32:220238. [PMID: 37343960 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0238-2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS To summarise the evidence on barriers to and facilitators of population adherence to prevention and control measures for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other respiratory infectious diseases. METHODS A qualitative synthesis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis and the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care: Qualitative Evidence Synthesis. We performed an electronic search on MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO from their inception to March 2023. RESULTS We included 71 studies regarding COVID-19, pneumonia, tuberculosis, influenza, pertussis and H1N1, representing 5966 participants. The measures reported were vaccinations, physical distancing, stay-at-home policy, quarantine, self-isolation, facemasks, hand hygiene, contact investigation, lockdown, infection prevention and control guidelines, and treatment. Tuberculosis-related measures were access to care, diagnosis and treatment completion. Analysis of the included studies yielded 37 barriers and 23 facilitators. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests that financial and social support, assertive communication, trust in political authorities and greater regulation of social media enhance adherence to prevention and control measures for COVID-19 and infectious respiratory diseases. Designing and implementing effective educational public health interventions targeting the findings of barriers and facilitators highlighted in this review are key to reducing the impact of infectious respiratory diseases at the population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tácito Zaildo
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Thayla Amorim Santino
- Department of Physical Therapy, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
| | | | | | - João Carlos Alchieri
- Department of Psychology, Graduate Program in Science, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Cecilia M Patino
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sarah Leite
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Kleber Giovanni Luz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Oliveira Guerra
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Tito Hugo Soares da Penha
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Rodrigues da Silva
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Ada Cristina Jácome
- Public Health Department of the State of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Karolinne Souza Monteiro
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairi, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
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10
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Zhang X, Huang Y, Du L, Wang F. Exploring the impact of motivations on individual online and offline preventive actions against COVID-19. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023:1-16. [PMID: 36776146 PMCID: PMC9900206 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04283-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Having accurate and sufficient information about the outbreak and actively adopting preventive actions are important to reduce the adverse effects of COVID-19 and control the spread of the epidemic. To this end, grounded in the situational theory of problem solving (STOPS) and self-concern and other-orientation theory, this study aims to examine motivations of individuals to adopt online and offline preventive actions during the COVID-19 pandemic. We explored the effects of three motivations, i.e., situational motivation, concern-for-self and concern-for-others motivation, and their antecedents on individual online and offline preventive actions. We used PLS-SEM to analyze the results of 628 questionnaires and found that: first, individual online preventive actions have a positive predictive effect on offline actions; secondly, individual online preventive actions are positively affected by situational motivation and concern-for-others motivation, and individual offline preventive actions are positively affected by concern-for-self and concern-for-others motivation; finally, three situational perceptual factors including problem, involvement and constraint recognition have significant effects on the three motivations. The findings of this study enriched the research results on individual behaviors in the context of COVID-19, and provided a basis for making decisions on the guidance and management of the individuals' COVID-19 preventive actions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-023-04283-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng Zhang
- School of Economics and Management, Anhui Polytechnic University, 241000 Wuhu, China
| | - Yelin Huang
- School of Economics and Management, Anhui Polytechnic University, 241000 Wuhu, China
| | - Lin Du
- School of Economics and Management, Anhui Polytechnic University, 241000 Wuhu, China
| | - Fenglian Wang
- School of Economics and Management, Anhui Polytechnic University, 241000 Wuhu, China
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11
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Thaivalappil A, Bhattacharyya A, Young I, Gosselin S, Pearl DL, Papadopoulos A. Environmental determinants of infectious and chronic disease prevention behaviours: A systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative research. Health Psychol Open 2023; 10:20551029231179157. [PMID: 37255528 PMCID: PMC10226319 DOI: 10.1177/20551029231179157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory health policies facilitate desired health behaviours in communities, and among them, smoke-free policies and COVID-19 restrictions have been widely implemented. Qualitative research studies have explored how these measures and other environmental influences shape preventive behaviours. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize previously published qualitative research, generate across-study themes, and propose recommendations for behaviour change interventions. We used a comprehensive search strategy, relevance screening and confirmation, data extraction, quality assessment, thematic synthesis, and quality-of-evidence assessment. In total, 87 relevant studies were identified. Findings were grouped under six overarching themes and mapped under three categories: (i) the political environment, (ii) the sociocultural environment, and (iii) the physical environment. These findings provide insights into the environmental influences of behaviour and indicate future interventions may be more effective by considering moral norms, community norms, policy support, and group identity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ian Young
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sydney Gosselin
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - David L Pearl
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Papadopoulos
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Compliance with wearing facemasks by university teaching staff during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic: a cross sectional study. DISCOVER SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH 2022; 2:8. [PMID: 35754445 PMCID: PMC9207867 DOI: 10.1007/s44155-022-00011-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective We aimed to explore compliance with and barriers to wearing facemasks at the workplace among university teaching staff in Egypt. Methods An online survey was shared with teaching staff members at 11 public and 12 private Egyptian universities and high institutes, and 218 responses were received. All participants were asked about beliefs related to wearing facemasks. For participants who taught in-person classes, compliance with and barriers to wearing facemasks at the workplace were assessed. Compliance level was classified into: Non-compliance, inadequate and adequate, based on the degree of adherence to having facemasks on and not taking them off at five main work settings. We compared demographic characteristics, beliefs, and barriers scores across compliance levels. Results Most participants (81.7%) believed that facemasks reduce infection risk to others and 74.3% believed facemasks can reduce risk to the wearer. Around 80% of the respondents who taught in-person classes wore facemasks, but only 37.8% met the criteria of adequate compliance. Difficulty breathing and impaired communication were cited as major barriers by 42.2% and 30.3% of in-person class tutors respectively. The risk of reporting COVID-19 like symptoms among non-compliant participants was double the risk among those with adequate compliance (45.9% vs 25.7% respectively). Adequate compliance was significantly associated with higher positive beliefs scores and lower barriers scores. Conclusion Adequate compliance with wearing facemasks at the workplace was low. Addressing negative beliefs may improve compliance. Difficulty breathing, and impaired communication were important barriers, therefore we recommend replacing in-person interactions with online classes whenever applicable. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s44155-022-00011-3.
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13
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Jach Ł. The scientistic worldview and its relationships with fear of COVID, conspiracy beliefs, preventive behaviors, and attitudes towards vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Polish sample. CURRENT ISSUES IN PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 11:11-28. [PMID: 38013829 PMCID: PMC10654346 DOI: 10.5114/cipp.2021.111633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The scientistic worldview is characterized by the tendency to justify beliefs and behavior with scientific findings and to function on the basis of theorems and opinions formulated by scientists. The aim of this study was to test whether the attitudes typical for the scientistic worldview could be related to beliefs and behaviors that may reduce the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE The study was conducted on a Polish sample of 1286 participants, using an online survey platform. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires to measure attitudes towards vaccines on COVID-19, the scientistic worldview, fear of COVID, conspiracy beliefs about the COVID-19 pandemic, and preventive behaviors undertaken. Participants were also asked about their personal experiences with the pandemic. RESULTS The study showed that the scientistic worldview was associated with a higher fear of COVID, a higher level of containment-related behavior, a lower level of conspiracy beliefs about the COVID-19 pandemic, and more positive attitudes towards vaccination against COVID-19. A structural model of relations between the studied variables turned out to be very effective and explained 51% of the variance of containment-related behavior and 63% of the variance of attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccines. CONCLUSIONS The study found that preventive behaviors and attitudes towards vaccination against COVID-19 were weakly related to personal experiences during the pandemic but significantly correlated with psychological variables. The results suggest that very positive, scientistic attitudes towards science may be related to higher adherence to science-based public health recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Jach
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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14
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Lee TH, Do B, Dantzinger L, Holmes J, Chyba M, Hankins S, Mersereau E, Hara K, Fan VY. Mitigation Planning and Policies Informed by COVID-19 Modeling: A Framework and Case Study of the State of Hawaii. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19106119. [PMID: 35627656 PMCID: PMC9140577 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19106119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In the face of great uncertainty and a global crisis from COVID-19, mathematical and epidemiologic COVID-19 models proliferated during the pandemic. Yet, many models were not created with the explicit audience of policymakers, the intention of informing specific scenarios, or explicit communication of assumptions, limitations, and complexities. This study presents a case study of the roles, uses, and approaches to COVID-19 modeling and forecasting in one state jurisdiction in the United States. Based on an account of the historical real-world events through lived experiences, we first examine the specific modeling considerations used to inform policy decisions. Then, we review the real-world policy use cases and key decisions that were informed by modeling during the pandemic including the role of modeling in informing planning for hospital capacity, isolation and quarantine facilities, and broad public communication. Key lessons are examined through the real-world application of modeling, noting the importance of locally tailored models, the role of a scientific and technical advisory group, and the challenges of communicating technical considerations to a public audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H. Lee
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA; (T.H.L.); (B.D.); (L.D.); (J.H.)
- Hawaii Data Collaborative, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Bobby Do
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA; (T.H.L.); (B.D.); (L.D.); (J.H.)
| | - Levi Dantzinger
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA; (T.H.L.); (B.D.); (L.D.); (J.H.)
| | - Joshua Holmes
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA; (T.H.L.); (B.D.); (L.D.); (J.H.)
| | - Monique Chyba
- Department of Mathematics, College of Natural Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA;
| | - Steven Hankins
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA;
| | - Edward Mersereau
- Behavioral Health Administration, Hawaii Department of Health, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA;
| | - Kenneth Hara
- Hawaii Department of Defense, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA;
| | - Victoria Y. Fan
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA; (T.H.L.); (B.D.); (L.D.); (J.H.)
- Center for Global Development, Washington, DC 20036, USA
- Correspondence:
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15
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Pandemic Experience of First Responders: Fear, Frustration, and Stress. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084693. [PMID: 35457559 PMCID: PMC9028623 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics are on the front lines of crises and emergencies, placing them at high risk of COVID-19 infection. A deeper understanding of the challenges facing first responders during the COVID-19 pandemic is necessary to better support this important workforce. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 21 first responders during the COVID-19 pandemic, asking about the impact of COVID-19. Data collected from our study interviews revealed that, despite large numbers of COVID-19 infections among the staff of police and fire departments, some—but not all—first responders were concerned about COVID-19. A similar divide existed within this group regarding whether or not to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Many first responders reported frustration over COVID-19 information because of inconsistencies across sources, misinformation on social media, and the impact of politics. In addition, first responders described increased stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic caused by factors such as the fear of COVID exposure during emergency responses, concerns about infecting family members, and frustration surrounding new work policies. Our findings provide insight into the impact of COVID-19 on first responders and highlight the importance of providing resources for education about COVID-19 risks and vaccination, as well as for addressing first responders’ mental health and well-being.
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16
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April MD, Naylor JF, Long B. Analysis of the Effects of a Texas State-Wide Mask Mandate (Executive Order GA-29) on Case Load, Hospitalizations, and Mortality. South Med J 2022; 115:175-180. [PMID: 35237834 PMCID: PMC8865024 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in unprecedented hospitalizations, ventilator use, and deaths. Because of concerns for resource utilization and surges in hospital capacity use, Texas Executive Order GA-29 required statewide mask wear beginning July 3, 2020. Our objective was to compare COVID-19 case load, hospital bed use, and deaths before and after implementation of this mask order. METHODS This was a retrospective observational study using publicly reported statewide data to perform a mixed-methods interrupted time series analysis. We compared outcomes before and after the statewide mask wear mandate per Executive Order GA-29. The preorder period was from June 19 to July 2, 2020. The postorder period was July 17 to September 17, 2020. Outcomes included daily COVID-19 case load, hospitalizations, and mortality. RESULTS The daily case load before the mask order per 100,000 individuals was 187.5 (95% confidence interval [CI] 157.0-217.0) versus 200.7 (95% CI 179.8-221.6) after GA-29. The number of daily hospitalized patients with COVID-19 was 171.4 (95% CI 143.8-199.0) before GA-29 versus 225.1 (95% CI 202.9-247.3) after. Daily mortality was 2.4 (95% CI 1.9-2.9) before GA-29 versus 5.2 (95% CI 4.6-5.8). There was no material impact on our results after controlling for economic activity. CONCLUSIONS In both adjusted and unadjusted analyses, we were unable to detect a reduction in case load, hospitalization rates, or mortality associated with the implementation of an executive order requiring a statewide mask order. These results suggest that during a period of rapid virus spread, additional public health measures may be necessary to mitigate transmission at the population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D April
- From the Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, the Department of Emergency Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington, and the Department of Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, Texas
| | - Jason F Naylor
- From the Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, the Department of Emergency Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington, and the Department of Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, Texas
| | - Brit Long
- From the Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, the Department of Emergency Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington, and the Department of Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, Texas
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17
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Marchant E, Griffiths L, Crick T, Fry R, Hollinghurst J, James M, Cowley L, Abbasizanjani H, Torabi F, Thompson DA, Kennedy J, Akbari A, Gravenor MB, Lyons RA, Brophy S. COVID-19 mitigation measures in primary schools and association with infection and school staff wellbeing: An observational survey linked with routine data in Wales, UK. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264023. [PMID: 35226680 PMCID: PMC8884508 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION School-based COVID-19 mitigation strategies have greatly impacted the primary school day (children aged 3-11) including: wearing face coverings, two metre distancing, no mixing of children, and no breakfast clubs or extra-curricular activities. This study examines these mitigation measures and association with COVID-19 infection, respiratory infection, and school staff wellbeing between October to December 2020 in Wales, UK. METHODS A school staff survey captured self-reported COVID-19 mitigation measures in the school, participant anxiety and depression, and open-text responses regarding experiences of teaching and implementing measures. These survey responses were linked to national-scale COVID-19 test results data to examine association of measures in the school and the likelihood of a positive (staff or pupil) COVID-19 case in the school (clustered by school, adjusted for school size and free school meals using logistic regression). Linkage was conducted through the SAIL (Secure Anonymised Information Linkage) Databank. RESULTS Responses were obtained from 353 participants from 59 primary schools within 15 of 22 local authorities. Having more direct non-household contacts was associated with a higher likelihood of COVID-19 positive case in the school (1-5 contacts compared to none, OR 2.89 (1.01, 8.31)) and a trend to more self-reported cold symptoms. Staff face covering was not associated with a lower odds of school COVID-19 cases (mask vs. no covering OR 2.82 (1.11, 7.14)) and was associated with higher self-reported cold symptoms. School staff reported the impacts of wearing face coverings on teaching, including having to stand closer to pupils and raise their voices to be heard. 67.1% were not able to implement two metre social distancing from pupils. We did not find evidence that maintaining a two metre distance was associated with lower rates of COVID-19 in the school. CONCLUSIONS Implementing, adhering to and evaluating COVID-19 mitigation guidelines is challenging in primary school settings. Our findings suggest that reducing non-household direct contacts lowers infection rates. There was no evidence that face coverings, two metre social distancing or stopping children mixing was associated with lower odds of COVID-19 or cold infection rates in the school. Primary school staff found teaching challenging during COVID-19 restrictions, especially for younger learners and those with additional learning needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Marchant
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- National Centre for Population Health and Wellbeing Research, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Griffiths
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Crick
- School of Education, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Fry
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- National Centre for Population Health and Wellbeing Research, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Joe Hollinghurst
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Michaela James
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- National Centre for Population Health and Wellbeing Research, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Cowley
- National Centre for Population Health and Wellbeing Research, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Research and Evaluation Division, Public Health Knowledge and Research Directorate, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Hoda Abbasizanjani
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Fatemeh Torabi
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel A. Thompson
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Kennedy
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- National Centre for Population Health and Wellbeing Research, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Ashley Akbari
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Michael B. Gravenor
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Ronan A. Lyons
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Sinead Brophy
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- National Centre for Population Health and Wellbeing Research, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
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18
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Decisions to attend holiday gatherings during COVID-19 and engagement in key prevention strategies - United States, January 2021. Epidemiol Infect 2022; 150:e32. [PMID: 35135647 PMCID: PMC8886078 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268822000115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gatherings where people are eating and drinking can increase the risk of getting and spreading SARS-CoV-2 among people who are not fully vaccinated; prevention strategies like wearing masks and physical distancing continue to be important for some groups. We conducted an online survey to characterise fall/winter 2020–2021 holiday gatherings, decisions to attend and prevention strategies employed during and before gatherings. We determined associations between practicing prevention strategies, demographics and COVID-19 experience. Among 502 respondents, one-third attended in person holiday gatherings; 73% wore masks and 84% practiced physical distancing, but less did so always (29% and 23%, respectively). Younger adults were 44% more likely to attend gatherings than adults ≥35 years. Younger adults (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 1.53, 95% CI 1.19–1.97), persons who did not experience COVID-19 themselves or have relatives/close friends experience severe COVID-19 (aPR 1.56, 95% CI 1.18–2.07), and non-Hispanic White persons (aPR 1.57, 95% CI 1.13–2.18) were more likely to not always wear masks in public during the 2 weeks before gatherings. Public health messaging emphasizing consistent application of COVID-19 prevention strategies is important to slow the spread of COVID-19.
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19
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Iyamu I, Apantaku G, Yesufu Z, Oladele EA, Eboreime E, Afirima B, Okechukwu E, Kibombwe GI, Oladele T, Tafuma T, Badejo OO, Ashiono E, Mpofu M. Is social media, as a main source of information on COVID-19, associated with perceived effectiveness of face mask use? Findings from six sub-Saharan African countries. Glob Health Promot 2022; 29:86-96. [PMID: 35081834 PMCID: PMC9607963 DOI: 10.1177/17579759211065489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: The use of face masks as a public health approach to limit the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been the subject of debate. One major concern has been the spread of misinformation via social media channels about the implications of the use of face masks. We assessed the association between social media as the main COVID-19 information source and perceived effectiveness of face mask use. Methods: In this survey in six sub-Saharan African countries (Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Zambia and Zimbabwe), respondents were asked how much they agreed that face masks are effective in limiting COVID-19. Responses were dichotomised as ‘agree’ and ‘does not agree’. Respondents also indicated their main information source including social media, television, newspapers, etc. We assessed perceived effectiveness of face masks, and used multivariable logistic models to estimate the association between social media use and perceived effectiveness of face mask use. Propensity score (PS) matched analysis was used to assess the robustness of the main study findings. Results Among 1988 respondents, 1169 (58.8%) used social media as their main source of information, while 1689 (85.0%) agreed that face masks were effective against COVID-19. In crude analysis, respondents who used social media were more likely to agree that face masks were effective compared with those who did not [odds ratio (OR) 1.29, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.65]. This association remained significant when adjusted for age, sex, country, level of education, confidence in government response, attitude towards COVID-19 and alternative main sources of information on COVID-19 (OR 1.33, 95%CI: 1.01–1.77). Findings were also similar in the PS-matched analysis. Conclusion: Social media remains a viable risk communication channel during the COVID-19 pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite concerns about misinformation, social media may be associated with favourable perception of the effectiveness of face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ihoghosa Iyamu
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.,School of Population and Public Health (SPPH), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Glory Apantaku
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Zeena Yesufu
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Edward Adekola Oladele
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.,Episolution Public Health Services, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ejemai Eboreime
- National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Abuja, Nigeria.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Barinaadaa Afirima
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Emeka Okechukwu
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.,FHI 360 (Family Health International), Tanzania
| | - Gabriel Isaac Kibombwe
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.,FHI 360 (Family Health International), Zambia
| | - Tolulope Oladele
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.,National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Taurayi Tafuma
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Okiki-Olu Badejo
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.,Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Everline Ashiono
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.,Egerton University, Kenya
| | - Mulamuli Mpofu
- Pan African Research Consortium, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
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20
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Mezones-Holguin E, Al-Kassab-Córdova A, Herrera-Añazco P, Benites-Zapata VA, Toro-Huamanchumo CJ, Flores-Gavino A, Muñoz Del Carpio-Toia A, Rodríguez-Morales AJ. Frequency of Correct Mask Use Among Pedestrians in High-Flow Indoor Public Spaces: A Multicenter Analysis in the First and Second Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Peru. J Prim Care Community Health 2022; 13:21501319221134851. [PMID: 36348573 PMCID: PMC9647236 DOI: 10.1177/21501319221134851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Our study aimed to describe the variation in the frequency of correct mask
use among pedestrians in the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic
in high-flow indoor public spaces from different geographic and social
settings in Peru. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional exploratory study among pedestrians in Lima
(the capital city) and other coastal and highland cities in Peru.
Pedestrians were directly observed by trained medical students in 2
high-flow indoor areas at different times in November 2020 (first wave) and
October 2021 (second wave). Primary outcomes included the frequencies of
mask use and correct use. We applied multinomial logistic models and
estimated crude and adjusted relative prevalence ratios for sex, age,
obesity, and location. Additionally, we used binomial generalized linear
models to estimate prevalence ratios in crude and adjusted models. Results: We included 1996 participants. The frequency of mask use was similar in both
years: 96.9% in 2020 and 95.5% in 2021. However, the frequency of correct
mask use significantly decreased from 81.9% (95% CI, 79.4-84.3) in 2020 to
60.3% (95% CI, 57.2-67.3) in 2021. In 2020, we observed an increase in the
probability of misuse in the cities of Lima (aRP: 1.42;
P = .021) and Chiclayo (aPR: 1.62,
P = .001), whereas, in 2021, we noted an increase in the
probability of misuse in the cities of Lima (aRP: 1.72;
P < .001) and Piura (aPR: 1.44;
P < .001). Conclusions: The correct mask use decreased during the second wave, although no
significant overall variations were observed in mask use in pedestrians
between both periods. Also, we found regional differences in correct mask
use in both periods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Percy Herrera-Añazco
- Universidad San Juan Bautista, Lima, Peru.,Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación (IETSI), EsSalud, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | | | - Alfonso J Rodríguez-Morales
- Latin American Network of COVID-19 Research (LANCOVID), Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia.,Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
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21
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Lubega GB, Mendoza H, Nkeramahame J, Niyongabo F, Gonza J, Nakachwa B, Musoke D. Community mask wearing as a COVID-19 preventive measure, its barriers, and motivators among rural households of Uganda: A mixed methods approach. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000485. [PMID: 36962384 PMCID: PMC10021463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Adherence to mask wearing has the potential to reduce coronavirus disease 2019 acquisition risk. However, there is limited information about community mask wearing and its predictors among rural populations. This study aimed to assess the level of adherence to community mask wearing as a COVID-19 prevention measure, its barriers, and motivators among the Ugandan rural population of Wakiso District. This cross-sectional study utilised both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The quantitative component employed a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire among 400 participants, to assess the level of adherence and associated predictors towards mask wearing. Modified Poisson regression with robust standard error estimates was used to obtain crude and adjusted prevalence ratios associated with mask wearing. Quantitative data analysis was performed using Stata 15.0 Statistical software. The qualitative component was used to further explore the barriers and motivators of community mask wearing whereseven focus group discussions among 56 community health workers were conducted. Data was analysed using a thematic approach with the help of Nvivo Version 12 software. The quantitative results showed that 70.8% (283/400) of the participants were adherent to mask wearing. Furthermore, reusable (cloth masks) were the most common form of face masks worn by the participants; 71.9% (282/400). Adequate knowledge about mask wearing as a COVID-19 prevention measure was positively associated with mask wearing (adjusted prevalence ratio (95% CI); 3.2 (1.19-8.56)). The qualitative results revealed; sensitization from health workers, provision of free masks, and fear of fines and arrests as motivators to mask wearing. Barriers to mask wearing included: inability to buy masks due to financial constraints, one-time provision of free masks, ill-fitting and worn-out masks, discomfort, and bribery. The practice of community mask wearing was sub-optimal among the study rural communities. Initiatives to scale up the practice need to be feasible for rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Biyinzika Lubega
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hilbert Mendoza
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Juvenal Nkeramahame
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- FIND, The Global Alliance for Diagnostics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Filimin Niyongabo
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joviah Gonza
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Betty Nakachwa
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Musoke
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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22
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Polivka BJ, Eldeirawi K, Huntington-Moskos L, Nyenhuis SM. Mask Use Experiences, COVID-19, and Adults with Asthma: A Mixed-Methods Approach. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2022; 10:116-123. [PMID: 34785392 PMCID: PMC8590602 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2021.10.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although masks are recommended for those with asthma in the era of COVID-19, there is limited research exploring the extent of and problems related to mask use in adults with asthma. OBJECTIVE We sought to describe in adults with asthma: (1) the extent masks are worn and attitudes and beliefs about wearing masks; (2) participant characteristics associated with problems experienced while wearing a mask, and (3) participant experiences and recommendations regarding masks. METHODS The Mask Use in Adults with Asthma online survey was conducted with 501 adults with asthma (96.6%) primarily from the United States. A Mask Effects Scale (MES) was compiled from items addressing problems experienced wearing a mask with higher total scores indicating more problems. Open-ended questions explored factors considered when choosing a mask, problems experienced while wearing a mask, and recommendations to others with asthma. Survey data were analyzed descriptively and via multiple regression. Themes were generated from open-ended items. RESULTS Almost all participants (98.4%) indicated wearing a mask in public, and most (67.4%) wore a mask ≤3 hours per day. Poorer asthma control and wearing a mask longer were significantly associated with higher MES scores (P ≤ .001 and .005, respectively). Participant recommendations included "Just wear it," use a comfortable, well-fitting mask, take mask breaks, and carry your inhaler. CONCLUSIONS Wearing a mask in public was almost uniformly adhered to by participants, despite reporting problematic effects. Implementing recommendations, such as planned mask breaks, can support and enhance the experience of wearing a mask for adults with asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamal Eldeirawi
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, Chicago College of Nursing, University of Illinois, Chicago, Ill
| | | | - Sharmilee M Nyenhuis
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy, Chicago Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Ill
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23
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24
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Nair N, Selvaraj P. Using a cultural and social identity lens to understand pandemic responses in the US and India. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CROSS CULTURAL MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/14705958211057363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The world over, countries have been racing to control the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. Central to the mitigation of the virus spread is the ability of nations to ensure behavior of its people adheres to the constraints imposed in the wake of the pandemic. However, there has been much variation in how individuals and collectives have responded in conformance to expected behavioral changes necessitated by the pandemic. The paper offers a cross-cultural and social identity perspective based on group categorizations to understand the variation in pandemic responses in the context of two different countries, that of India and the United States. Relevant cultural dimensions of difference shaping behavior such as individualism-collectivism, power distance, and other cultural norms shaping divergent behavioral responses in the US and India are examined. Differing group categorizations relevant for each country are also explored to understand the dynamics of behavioral response, be it adherence to mask wearing and following norms of social distancing, or the migrant labor exodus in India from urban to rural areas amidst the first wave of the pandemic. Implications for managing behavioral responses considering cross-cultural differences and group categorization processes are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Nair
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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25
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Serresse L, Simon-Tillaux N, Decavèle M, Gay F, Nion N, Lavault S, Guerder A, Châtelet A, Dabi F, Demoule A, Morélot-Panzini C, Moricot C, Similowski T. Lifting dyspnoea invisibility: COVID-19 face masks, the experience of breathing discomfort, and improved lung health perception - a French nationwide survey. Eur Respir J 2021; 59:13993003.01459-2021. [PMID: 34475232 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01459-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
QUESTION ADDRESSED In contrast with pain, dyspnoea is not visible to the general public who lack the corresponding experiential baggage. We tested the hypotheses that the generalised use of face masks to fight SARS-CoV2 dissemination could change this and sensitise people to respiratory health. METHODS General population polling (1012-person panel demographically representative of the adult French population -quota sampling method-; 517 women, 51%). 860 (85%) answered "no" to "treated for a chronic respiratory disease" ("respiratory healthy", RH) and 152 "yes" ("respiratory disease", RD). 14% of RH respondents reported having a close family member treated for a chronic respiratory disease (RH-family+ and RH-family-). Respondents described mask-related attitudes, beliefs, inconveniencies, dyspnoea, and changes in their respiratory health vision . RESULTS: Compliance with masks was high (94.7%). Dyspnoea ranked first among mask inconveniencies (RD 79.3%, RH 67.3%, p=0.013). "Air hunger" was the main sensory dyspnoea descriptor. Mask-related dyspnoea was independently associated with belonging to RH-family+ (Odds Ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 1.85 [1.16-2.98]) and removing masks to improve breathing (OR 5.21 [3.73-7.28]). It was negatively associated with considering masks effective to protect others (OR]: 0.42 [0.25-0.75]). Half the respondents were more concerned with their respiratory health since wearing masks; 41% reported better understanding patients' experiences. ANSWER TO THE QUESTION Wearing protective face masks leads to the mass discovery of breathing discomfort. It raises the public's awareness of what respiratory diseases involve and sensitises to the importance of breathing. These data should be used as the fulcrum of respiratory-health-oriented communication actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure Serresse
- Unité Mobile de Soins Palliatifs, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France.,co-first authors
| | - Noémie Simon-Tillaux
- Département de Santé Publique, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS 1136, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Paris, France.,co-first authors
| | - Maxens Decavèle
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France.,Département R3S, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Médecine Intensive et Réanimation, Paris, France
| | - Frederick Gay
- Laboratoire de parasitologie-mycologie, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Nion
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France.,Département R3S, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Lavault
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France.,Département R3S, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Pneumologie, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Guerder
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France.,Département R3S, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Soins de Suite et de Réadaptation Respiratoire, Paris, France
| | | | - Frédéric Dabi
- Institut Français d'Opinion Publique (IFOP), Paris, France
| | - Alexandre Demoule
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France.,Département R3S, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Capucine Morélot-Panzini
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France.,Département R3S, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Pneumologie, Paris, France
| | - Caroline Moricot
- Département de Sociologie & EA 2483 Centre d'étude des techniques, des connaissances et des pratiques -CETCOPRA-, Université Paris I Panthéon Sorbonne, Paris, France.,co-last authors
| | - Thomas Similowski
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France .,Département R3S, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire APHP-Sorbonne Université, site Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,co-last authors
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26
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Badri S, Sardá V, Moncada JS, Merçon M, Rezai K, Weinstein RA, Trick WE. Disparities and Temporal Trends in COVID-19 Exposures and Mitigating Behaviors Among Black and Hispanic Adults in an Urban Setting. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2125187. [PMID: 34581798 PMCID: PMC8479580 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.25187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, has disproportionately affected Black and Hispanic communities in the US, which can be attributed to social factors including inconsistent public health messaging and suboptimal adoption of prevention efforts. OBJECTIVES To identify behaviors and evaluate trends in COVID-19-mitigating practices in a predominantly Black and Hispanic population, to identify differences in practices by self-reported ethnicity, and to evaluate whether federal emergency financial assistance was associated with SARS-CoV-2 acquisition. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This survey study was conducted by telephone from July 1 through August 30, 2020, on a random sample of adults who underwent SARS-CoV-2 testing at a safety-net health care system in Chicago during the surge in COVID-19 cases in the spring of 2020. Behaviors and receipt of a stimulus check were compared between participants testing positive and negative for SARS-CoV-2. Differences in behaviors and temporal trends were assessed by race and ethnicity. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES SARS-CoV-2 infection was assessed using nasopharyngeal quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction testing. Mitigating behaviors and federal emergency financial assistance were assessed by survey. Race and ethnicity data were collected from electronic health records. RESULTS Of 750 randomly sampled individuals, 314 (41.9%) consented to participate (169 [53.8%] women). Of those, 159 (51%) self-reported as Hispanic and 155 (49%) as non-Hispanic (120 [38.2%] Black), of whom 133 (84%) and 76 (49%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, respectively. For all participants, consistent mask use (public transport: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.00; 95% CI, 0.00-0.34; social gatherings: aOR, 0.10; 95% CI, 0.00-0.50; running errands: aOR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.07-0.42; at work: aOR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.07-0.79) and hand sanitizer use (aOR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.13-0.52) were associated with lower odds of infection. During 3 sampled weeks, mitigation practices were less frequent among Hispanic compared with non-Hispanic participants (eg, mask use while running errands: aOR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.15-0.46). Hispanic participants were at high risk of infection (aOR, 5.52; 95% CI, 4.30-7.08) and more likely to work outside the home (aOR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.27-3.30) compared with non-Hispanic participants, possibly because of limited receipt of stimulus checks (aOR, 0.03; 95% CI, 0.02-0.07) or unemployment benefits (aOR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.16-0.74). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this survey study of adults in a large US city, public health messaging improved preventive behaviors over time but lagged among Hispanic participants; messaging tailored to Hispanic communities, especially for mask use, should be prioritized. Hispanic individuals were at higher risk for infection, more often worked outside the home, and were less likely to have received a stimulus check; this suggests larger studies are needed to evaluate the provision of economic support on SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in low-income populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Badri
- Department of Medicine, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Vanessa Sardá
- Department of Medicine, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Monica Merçon
- Department of Medicine, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Katayoun Rezai
- Department of Medicine, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Robert A. Weinstein
- Department of Medicine, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - William E. Trick
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
- Center for Health Equity and Innovation, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
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27
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Escandón K, Rasmussen AL, Bogoch II, Murray EJ, Escandón K, Popescu SV, Kindrachuk J. COVID-19 false dichotomies and a comprehensive review of the evidence regarding public health, COVID-19 symptomatology, SARS-CoV-2 transmission, mask wearing, and reinfection. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:710. [PMID: 34315427 PMCID: PMC8314268 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06357-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Scientists across disciplines, policymakers, and journalists have voiced frustration at the unprecedented polarization and misinformation around coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Several false dichotomies have been used to polarize debates while oversimplifying complex issues. In this comprehensive narrative review, we deconstruct six common COVID-19 false dichotomies, address the evidence on these topics, identify insights relevant to effective pandemic responses, and highlight knowledge gaps and uncertainties. The topics of this review are: 1) Health and lives vs. economy and livelihoods, 2) Indefinite lockdown vs. unlimited reopening, 3) Symptomatic vs. asymptomatic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, 4) Droplet vs. aerosol transmission of SARS-CoV-2, 5) Masks for all vs. no masking, and 6) SARS-CoV-2 reinfection vs. no reinfection. We discuss the importance of multidisciplinary integration (health, social, and physical sciences), multilayered approaches to reducing risk ("Emmentaler cheese model"), harm reduction, smart masking, relaxation of interventions, and context-sensitive policymaking for COVID-19 response plans. We also address the challenges in understanding the broad clinical presentation of COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and SARS-CoV-2 reinfection. These key issues of science and public health policy have been presented as false dichotomies during the pandemic. However, they are hardly binary, simple, or uniform, and therefore should not be framed as polar extremes. We urge a nuanced understanding of the science and caution against black-or-white messaging, all-or-nothing guidance, and one-size-fits-all approaches. There is a need for meaningful public health communication and science-informed policies that recognize shades of gray, uncertainties, local context, and social determinants of health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Escandón
- School of Medicine, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia.
| | - Angela L Rasmussen
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Georgetown Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Isaac I Bogoch
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Eleanor J Murray
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Karina Escandón
- Department of Anthropology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Saskia V Popescu
- Georgetown Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Jason Kindrachuk
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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28
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Bartels SM, Gora Combs K, Lazard AJ, Shelus V, Davis CH, Rothschild A, Drewry M, Carpenter K, Newman E, Goldblatt A, Dasgupta N, Hill LM, Ribisl KM. Development and Application of an Interdisciplinary Rapid Message Testing Model for COVID-19 in North Carolina. Public Health Rep 2021; 136:413-420. [PMID: 34011204 PMCID: PMC8202212 DOI: 10.1177/00333549211018676] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, public health officials have sought to develop evidence-based messages to reduce COVID-19 transmission by communicating key information to media outlets and the public. We describe the development of an interdisciplinary rapid message testing model to quickly create, test, and share messages with public health officials for use in health campaigns and policy briefings. METHODS An interdisciplinary research team from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill assembled in March 2020 to assist the state health department in developing evidence-based messages to influence social distancing behaviors in the state. We developed and iteratively executed a rapid message testing model; the components of the 4-step model were message creation, survey development, survey administration, and analysis and presentation to health department officials. The model was executed 4 times, each during a 7-day period in April and May, and each subsequent survey included new phrasing and/or messaging informed by the previous week's survey. A total of 917 adults from North Carolina participated in the 4 surveys. RESULTS Survey participants rated messages focused on protecting oneself and others higher than messages focused on norms and fear-based approaches. Pairing behaviors with motivations increased participants' desire to social distance across all themes and subgroups. For example, adding "Protect your grandmother, your neighbor with cancer, and your best friend with asthma," to messaging received a 0.9-point higher score than the base message, "Stay 6 feet apart from others when out in public." PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Our model to promote social distancing in North Carolina during the COVID-19 pandemic can be used for rapid, iterative message testing during public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia M. Bartels
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Katherine Gora Combs
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Allison J. Lazard
- Hussman School of Journalism and Media, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Victoria Shelus
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - C. Hunter Davis
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Allison Rothschild
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Maura Drewry
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn Carpenter
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Emily Newman
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Allison Goldblatt
- Hussman School of Journalism and Media, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Nabarun Dasgupta
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lauren M. Hill
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kurt M. Ribisl
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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29
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Vereen RN, Lazard AJ, Frank SC, Pulido M, Richter APC, Higgins ICA, Shelus VS, Vandegrift SM, Hall MG, Ribisl KM. Motivations, barriers, and communication recommendations for promoting face coverings during the COVID-19 pandemic: Survey findings from a diverse sample. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251169. [PMID: 33961657 PMCID: PMC8104408 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251169] [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: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
State and local health departments have been tasked with promoting the use of face coverings to decrease the spread of COVID-19 in their respective communities. However, little is known about motivations and barriers to wearing face coverings in the context of COVID-19 prevention, particularly among communities of color who are at an increased risk of serious illness from the disease. The purpose of this study was to identify common motivations and barriers to face covering use, as well as explore perceptions of messages encouraging the use of face coverings among a racially and ethnically diverse sample. A survey was distributed electronically to North Carolina (NC) residents through NC Department of Health and Human Services listservs in July 2020. Participants self-categorized as Latino/a (33.5%), Black (39.1%), or white or another race (27.5%). The most commonly endorsed motivations for wearing face coverings were to avoid spreading COVID-19 (77%), as well as to protect people who are vulnerable (76%) and one's community (72%). Being uncomfortable (40%) was the most commonly endorsed barrier. Messages that included a clear request (ex. please wear a face covering) and a direct benefit (ex. keep community safe) were more commonly endorsed than those that did not. Commonly endorsed motivations, behaviors, and messages differed by race and ethnicity. Increased attention to message content, message structure, and access to information and resources may aid local officials in increasing consistent use of face coverings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhyan N. Vereen
- Hussman School of Journalism and Media, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Allison J. Lazard
- Hussman School of Journalism and Media, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Simone C. Frank
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Marlyn Pulido
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Ana Paula C. Richter
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Isabella C. A. Higgins
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Victoria S. Shelus
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Sara M. Vandegrift
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Marissa G. Hall
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kurt M. Ribisl
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
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Nawa N, Yamaoka Y, Koyama Y, Nishimura H, Sonoda S, Kuramochi J, Miyazaki Y, Fujiwara T. Association between Social Integration and Face Mask Use Behavior during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic in Japan: Results from U-CORONA Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094717. [PMID: 33925191 PMCID: PMC8125384 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Face mask use is a critical behavior to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2. We aimed to evaluate the association between social integration and face mask use during the COVID-19 pandemic in a random sample of households in Utsunomiya City, Greater Tokyo, Japan. Data included 645 adults in the Utsunomiya COVID-19 seROprevalence Neighborhood Association (U-CORONA) study, which was conducted after the first wave of the pandemic, between 14 June 2020 and 5 July 2020, in Utsunomiya City. Social integration before the pandemic was assessed by counting the number of social roles, based on the Cohen's social network index. Face mask use before and during the pandemic was assessed by questionnaire, and participants were categorized into consistent mask users, new users, and current non-users. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between lower social integration score and face mask use. To account for possible differential non-response bias, non-response weights were used. Of the 645 participants, 172 (26.7%) were consistent mask users and 460 (71.3%) were new users, while 13 (2.0%) were current non-users. Lower social integration level was positively associated with non-users (RRR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.82). Social integration may be important to promote face mask use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobutoshi Nawa
- Department of Medical Education Research and Development, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-5803-5187; Fax: +81-3-5803-5190-2663
| | - Yui Yamaoka
- Department of Global Health Promotion, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (Y.Y.); (Y.K.); (H.N.); (T.F.)
| | - Yuna Koyama
- Department of Global Health Promotion, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (Y.Y.); (Y.K.); (H.N.); (T.F.)
| | - Hisaaki Nishimura
- Department of Global Health Promotion, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (Y.Y.); (Y.K.); (H.N.); (T.F.)
| | - Shiro Sonoda
- Kuramochi Clinic Interpark, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-0114, Japan; (S.S.); (J.K.)
| | - Jin Kuramochi
- Kuramochi Clinic Interpark, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-0114, Japan; (S.S.); (J.K.)
| | - Yasunari Miyazaki
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan;
| | - Takeo Fujiwara
- Department of Global Health Promotion, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (Y.Y.); (Y.K.); (H.N.); (T.F.)
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31
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Al Naam YA, Elsafi SH, Alkharraz ZS, Alfahad OA, Al-Jubran KM, Al Zahrani EM. Community practice of using face masks for the prevention of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247313. [PMID: 33606830 PMCID: PMC7894919 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Community face masking is possibly of great value in reducing COVID-19 transmission, especially when universally adopted with high compliance. The aim of this study is to investigate the knowledge, common misconceptions, barriers, and the compliance of the community with the use of face masks for the prevention of COVID-19. A validated questionnaire was administered to the participants through a web link by using various social media. The collected data were statistically analyzed for significant differences according to demographic variables. The average knowledge of face masks and their role in preventing COVID-19 transmission was 95.64%, with no differences among most of the demographical factors. Older groups and females demonstrated a better attitude towards wearing face masks than other groups did (p<0.001). Another significant difference in the participant's attitude was noticed between the various educational levels, employment, and nationality (p<0.001). Of the total respondents, 88.2% encouraged wearing face masks. Misconceptions about wearing face masks were very low. The frequency of wearing face masks at public places, workplaces, or social gatherings was 87.2%, 80.5%, and 47.5% respectively. There was a significant variation in the compliance with wearing face masks between the various groups based on age, gender, nationality, and employment status (p<0.001). The inconvenience in wearing face masks was reported by 36.3%. Face irritation and ear pain were reported by 70.2% and 43.5%, respectively. The inconvenience of wearing face masks with eyeglasses was reported by 44.3% of those wearing eyeglasses. In general, the study demonstrated a good attitude among participants towards wearing face masks. Although the respondents in the study were aware of the benefits of wearing face masks, the barriers may have decreased their desire to do so. These barriers include difficulty in breathing, discomfort, face irritation, and ear pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaser A. Al Naam
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salah H. Elsafi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zeyad S. Alkharraz
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Othman A. Alfahad
- Department of Biomedical Technology, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid M. Al-Jubran
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eidan M. Al Zahrani
- College Deanship, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
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