Several control measures have been implemented against SARS-CoV-2 in Hong Kong. To understand the impact of these control measures, 2 telephone surveys were conducted. These surveys assessed the perceptions, attitudes and behaviours of the general public towards the outbreak.
The survey found that people believed or perceived:
- Social distancing and wearing of facemasks have limited the spread of SARS-CoV-2
- Travel restrictions have reduced the number of imported cases
- Isolation, contact tracing and strict quarantine of those who had contact with confirmed cases have been effective
- A coincidental effect of these measures was a slowdown of the spread of flu
There was also considerable support for school closures among the people surveyed. The study concluded that current control measures have managed to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Hong Kong and were widely supported by the local population. It is important to sustain these measures and continue to promote responsible behaviour change as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic continues to spread globally.
To read the original article published in The Lancet Public Health, click here.
