Archive | 2021
Facial Mask Use and COVID-19 Protection Measures in Jefferson County, Kentucky: Results from an Observational Survey, November 5−11, 2020
Abstract
Introduction: The transmission of respiratory infectious diseases such as COVID-19 can be significantly decreased by mask-wearing. However, accurate information about the extent and proper use of the facial mask is scarce. This study’s main objective was to observe and analyze mask-wearing behavior and the level of COVID-19 protection measures in indoor public areas (PAs) of Jefferson County, Kentucky. Methods: In this observational survey study, the targets were indoor PAs, and ZIP codes were defined as surveying clusters. The number of selected PAs in each ZIP code was proportional to the population and the total number of PAs in that ZIP code. The PA pool in each ZIP code was divided into four groups, followed by random selection without replacement from each group. Results: A total of 191 PAs were surveyed: 50 of them were grocery stores, 56 were convenience stores or pharmacies, 39 were wine and liquor stores, and 46 were other stores. At least one unmasked and one incorrectly masked member of staff was observed in 26 percent and 40 percent of the sampled PAs, respectively. Also, in 29 percent and 35 percent of the PAs, at least one unmasked and one incorrectly masked visitor were observed, respectively. The rates varied by PA size and county district. Eighty percent of unmasked staff and 75 percent of the unmasked visitors were male. The rate of unmasked males varied from 50 percent to 100 percent across districts. About 66 percent of unmasked staff among all Jefferson County districts were young adults. More than one-fourth of all the PAs provided hand sanitizer for visitors’ use, but only 2 percent of the PAs provided masks to their visitors. Conclusion: Messaging about (correct) mask use may need to particularly target the 19–44-year-old male population, as these individuals were the most prevalent among those unmasked and masked incorrectly. Additionally, the protective measures practiced by particular businesses may depend on their resources. Hand sanitizer is easier to offer visitors, while staffing to regularly sanitize carts or funds to provide a sufficient number of wipes, gloves, or masks may present further opportunities for government assistance. ULJRI | https://ir.library.louisville.edu/jri/vol5/iss1/7 1 ULJRI Facial Mask Use and COVID-19 Protection Measures in Jefferson County, KY