When do people increase COVID-19 protective behaviors? A longitudinal analysis of the impact of infections among close contacts and in the community.

ABSTRACT: Studies examining individual-level changes in protective behaviors over time in association with community-level infection and self or close-contact infection with SARS-CoV-2 are limited. We analyzed overall and demographic specific week-to-week changes in COVID-19 protective behaviors and their association with COVID-19 infections (regional case counts and self or close contacts). Data were collected through 37 consecutive weekly surveys from 10/17/2021 - 6/26/2022. Our survey panel included 212 individuals living or working in St. Louis City and County, Missouri, U.S.A. Frequency of mask-wearing, handwashing, physical distancing, and avoiding large gatherings was self-reported (more/the same/less than the prior week). Close contact with COVID-19 was reported if the panel member, their ho

SUBMITTER: O'Connell CP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10195772 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature