Factors explaining the fear of being infected with COVID-19

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of COVID-19 has a social and economic impact on people, leaving them distressed and fearful of getting infected.

Objective: To determine the variables attributable to the fear of contracting COVID-19.

Design: This is a quantitative study based on an online cross-sectional self-administered survey in Chile between 10 July 2020 and 10 August 2020.

Setting and participants: A sample of 531, comprising over 18-year-old participants from middle- and high-income levels, was selected.

Outcome measures: Estimations were obtained using a probit regression model with marginal effects.

Results: Fear prevailed mainly in women. It has a positive relationship with variables such as chronic illnesses, infectious family or relatives, reduction in economic activity and perception of bad government response to a pandemic. Fear has a negative relationship with knowledge about COVID-19, education level and ageing. Moreover, those who consider socioeconomic impact less important than health care do not fear a COVID-19 infection.

Discussionand conclusion: The socioeconomic and health aspects help predict fears. Thus, the government should prioritize these variables in implementing policies. The government's credibility and communication systems can also reduce fears of contracting COVID-19.

Patient or public contribution: A pilot focus group of COVID-19-recuperated individuals and some members of our interest groups were consulted in the design stage of the study; this helped in constructing the survey questions. Additionally, three independent individuals volunteered to read and comment on the draft manuscript.

Keywords: Chile; health care; pandemic; perception; probit model.