The Role of Adherence to Preventive Measures (Wearing Masks, Social Distancing, and Washing Hands) in Reducing COVID-19 Infection: A Case Control Study

One of the most serious human threats is the emerging disease called COVID-19. Due to its rapid spread around the world, it was raised as a global concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). This study aims to assess the role of adherence to preventive measures (wearing masks, social distancing, and washing hands) in reducing COVID-19 infection

In this case-control study, participants were 143 patients with positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test results (case group) and 143 patients with negative PCR test results (control group) referred to the Moein Health Center in Miandoab County, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran. Data were collected through an interview using a researcher-made questionnaire. STATA software, version 14 was used for data analysis.

In this study, the data of 298 people (143 controls and 155 cases) were examined. The odds of positive PCR test results in people who did not adhere to social distancing guidelines, wearing masks, and washing hands were 37.11, 9.042, and 14.50 compared to those who adhered to these preventive measures (P<0.001). 

According to the results, the effective method to control the COVID-19 pandemic is adherence to preventive measures (wearing masks, social distancing, and washing hands) with public participation and cooperation of government organizations.