Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

February 21, 2020

Psychological responses, behavioral changes and public perceptions during the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak in China: a population based cross-sectional survey

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  • 510 persons from Wuhan and 501 persons from Shanghai completed phone interviews asking about symptoms of anxiety and also changes in behaviors related to COVID-19, such as increased hand washing, use of masks, and avoidance of going out.  
  • Citizens near the epicenter (Wuhan) reported significantly greater symptoms of moderate to severe anxiety than those in Shanghai (major city with transportation ties to Wuhan).  Perception of risk and severity of disease were positively associated with behavior change, and enhanced by governmental enforcement and messaging.  However, confusion about the accuracy of information provided led to increased anxiety. 

Qian et al. (Feb 20, 2020). Psychological responses, behavioral changes and public perceptions during the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak in China: a population based cross-sectional survey. Pre-print downloaded Feb 21 from https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.02.18.20024448