COVID 19 Prevalence, Risk Perceptions, and Preventive Behavior in Asymptomatic Latino Population: A Cross Sectional Study
Aims To determine the prevalence, level of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) risk perception attitude and preventive behavior implemented by the Latino population in the United States of America (USA) Methods This cross sectional study was conducted between July 25 and August 25, 2020, and included asymptomatic Latino participants (n=410) with no current/previous COVID 19 within a religious community in Maryland. Participants answered a questionnaire consisting of three components: patient demographics/socioeconomic status, COVID 19 risk perception, and precautionary behavior. Additionally, a focused history taking and physical examination were performed, and nasal swabs for COVID 19 testing were obtained. Results Around 80% of our study population was 35 years and older, considerably healthy, with only about a third reporting history of chronic disease ~80% most were females ~66% Of our participants, 90% lived under poverty; only ~6% had made it to college. When asked about the likelihood of acquiring COVID 19, 97.3% stated they have a low risk of getting infected. However, as we asked about the risk of individuals living in their neighborhood, state, and country, the rates changed to moderate to high (78.4% 86.3% and 86.6% respectively) When asked about preventive behavior, 71.2% stated they never wear masks and 85.4% mentioned they never keep social distance. Additionally, 76 (18.5% tested positive for COVID 19, whereas 64 (84.2% developed symptoms at follow up, 57 (75% were hospitalized, and 4 (5.2% died. Conclusions Our study identified inadequate COVID 19 threat perception and lack of engagement in preventive behavior among a group of Latinos living in the USA. We believe that Latino communities across the USA are at markedly high risk of acquiring, spreading, and dying of COVID 19.
Cureus