COVID-19 Population Survey of Iran (COPSIR) study protocol: Repeated survey on knowledge, risk perception, preventive behaviors, psychological problems, essential needs, and public trust during COVID-19 epidemic

Abstract

Background:The worldwide emergence and rapid expansion of COVID-19 emphasizes the need to assess the knowledge gap and to predict the disease-related behaviors and reactions during this epidemic.Methods and design: COVID19 Population Survey of Iran (COPSIR) is a repeated cross sectional survey that will be conducted in 8 waves. In each wave, 515 Iranian adults aged 18 years or older will be randomly selected and interviewed by phone. The study waves will be performed at approximately weekly intervals. The survey tool is adapted from COSMO (COVID-19 Snapshot MOnitoring) study. This study will provide information on trends of knowledge, risk perception, preventive behaviors, psychological problems, essential needs, and public trust among Iranian adults during COVID-19 epidemic.Discussion:The key findings of each wave will be immediately reported to the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control to set better policies for disease control and prevention. Moreover, if a message is extracted from the results of this study that needs to be communicated to the public, it will be done through the mass media.

A description of spatial-temporal patterns of the novel COVID-19 outbreak in the neighbourhoods’ scale in Tehran, Iran

“…Still, after being infected, the deprived social groups suffer the highest death toll in the deprived southern area of Tehran ( 20 ). Thus, the most important preventive measure is a lifestyle, hygienic behavior, and health education ( 22 , 23 ). The slower progress of the disease in March and April was because of effective interventions by limiting commercial and recreational activities, restricting intercity travels, and employees' distance-working.…”