Preventive Behaviors in Response to H5N1 Outbreak in Hong Kong
Author Information
Author(s): Lau Joseph TF, Kim Jean H, Tsui Hi Yi, Griffiths Sian
Primary Institution: Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hypothesis
What are the anticipated preventive behaviors of the Hong Kong public in response to a potential human-to-human H5N1 outbreak?
Conclusion
The public in Hong Kong is likely to adopt preventive measures that may help contain the spread of the virus in the community.
Supporting Evidence
- 73.8% of respondents would wear face masks in public venues.
- 86.7% would increase the frequency of handwashing.
- 92.4% would wear face masks when experiencing influenza-like illness.
- 94.2% would seek medical consultation immediately when having a fever.
Takeaway
If there is an outbreak of bird flu that spreads between people, most people in Hong Kong will take steps to protect themselves and others, like wearing masks and washing hands more often.
Methodology
A random, anonymous, cross-sectional telephone survey of 503 Hong Kong Chinese adults.
Potential Biases
Potential social desirability bias in self-reported behaviors.
Limitations
The study's response rate was not very high and the adoption of behavioral responses was self-reported and had not been validated.
Participant Demographics
Male and female Hong Kong Chinese adults aged 18–60 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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