Perceptions and behavioural responses of the general public during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey of UK Adults

Christina J Atchison; Leigh Bowman; Charlotte Vrinten; Rozlyn Redd; Philippa Pristera; Jeffrey W Eaton; Helen Ward

Preventive behaviours included information on perceived effectiveness and actual adoption of preventive behaviours (to protect oneself and others), to prevent both contracting COVID-19 and onward transmission, and were collected under three categories: (1) hygiene practices (wearing a face mask, washing hands more frequently with soap and water, using hand sanitiser more regularly, disinfecting the home, covering nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing) (2) travel avoidance (travel to affected countries and travel to areas inside and outside the UK, regardless of whether they were affected) (3) social distancing (avoiding public transport, social events, going out in general, going to hospital or other healthcare settings, crowded places, and contact with people who have a fever or respiratory symptoms).