Perceived risk of COVID-19 in Central Indian population

Abstract

Background: risk perception influences the behavior of the people. With gradual unlocking in India it is important to understand the perceived risk of people for COVID-19 issue as it might influence number of new positive cases in India.Material and method: this was an online survey which measured the perceived risk under two domain, risk perception of disease and trust people have in authorities and themselves to fight against COVID-19. SPSS 23.0 was used for data analysis.Result: Total sample size is 797. Only participants above age of 60 have high risk perception. But overall risk perception is low. All have high trust in scientist to develop an effective vaccine soon. The overall trust of participants is high which resulted in low risk perception. According to our study participants have low perceived risk. Conclusion: with low perceived risk, there and chances of increase of cases in COVID-19 positive patients. And people should not be misled by false sense of immunity and authorities should be prepared for second wave.