Association between COVID-19 prevention behaviors and perceived fear in Moroccan youth

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, preventive behaviors such as mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and physical distancing were considered effective methods to prevent the spread of infection. To explore the different factors associated with compliance with preventive behaviors among Moroccan youth, we conducted a cross-sectional survey with 432 Moroccan youth (11-18 years old). We aimed to identify demographic and socio-economic variables related to fear (scaled fear perception) and explore the association between perceived fear and five different measures of COVID-19 prevention behaviors, including hand hygiene (washing hands regardless of the duration), valid hand hygiene (washing hands for 20 seconds or longer), duration of hand washing, face coverings outside, and staying inside all day. Linear and logistic regression analyses were conducted to test the associations. The Fear Scale (Mean=7.9, SD=3.3) was calculated based on the level of perceived fear of behaviors that increase the risk of COVID-19. Female gender, large family size (≥6), and mid-level physical activity were associated with a higher Fear Scale (all p<0.05). A one point increase in the Fear Scale was associated with twice the odds of washing hands for 10 to 19 seconds, compared to washing hands for less than 10 seconds (Adjusted OR=1.96, 95% CI: 1.15-3.33). Similarly, a one point increase in the Fear Scale was associated with 2.7 times higher odds of covering their faces outside (AOR=2.77, 95% CI: 1.64-4.69). Efforts to promote preventive behaviors against COVID-19 should comprehensively consider adolescents' fear of the diseases and its impact on other health aspects.