Mask use, risk-mitigation behaviours and pandemic fatigue during the COVID-19 pandemic in five cities in Australia, the UK and USA: A cross-sectional survey

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.03.056
• Publication Date: 2021-03-23T16:54:04Z
• Authors: Chandini Raina Ma...; Phi-Yen Nguyen; Abrar Ahmad Chughtai; Mallory Trent; Brian Gerber; Kathleen Steinhofel; Holly Seale
• Keywords: Pandemic; Face masks; Social distance; Cross-sectional study

ObjectivesTo determine patterns of mask wearing and other infection prevention behaviours, over two time periods the COVID-19 pandemic, in cities where was not a cultural norm.MethodsA cross-sectional survey masks preventive behaviours adults aged ≥18 years conducted five cities: Sydney Melbourne, Australia; London, UK; Phoenix New York, USA. Data were analysed according to epidemiology COVID-19, mandates range predictors wearing.ResultsThe most common measures used avoiding public areas (80.4%), hand hygiene (76.4%), (71.8%) distancing (67.6%). Over 40% people avoided medical facilities. These decreased from March–July 2020. Pandemic fatigue associated with younger age, low perceived severity declining prevalence. Predictors location (US, UK), mandates, age <50 years, education, having symptoms knowing someone COVID-19. Negative experiences reduced wearing. Most respondents (98%) believed that washing necessary, 80% reported no change or stricter adherence these when masks.ConclusionPandemic mitigation widely across all cities, but between March July more people. Cities had higher rates Promotion use for older may be useful. Masks did result reduction measures.