COVID-19 behavioural insights study: Preliminary findings from Finland, April-May, 2020

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 monitoring behavioural insights study was conducted from April-May 2020 in Finland. Respondents reported feeling confident protecting themselves against COVID-19 infection. Worries shifted from overloading the health system (mean value 5.5 [95% CI 5.4-5.6]) to mental health concerns (mean value 5.3 [95% CI 5.2-5.4]). Maintaining physical distancing from families and friends decreased by 7% and 6%. Respondents mostly agreed that if a vaccine would become available, they would get it. The decrease in acceptance of recommended measures needs further analysis, but current results provide evidence to support the response. Key pointsO_LICurrently limited information available on the complex interaction between epidemiology, media attention, pandemic control measures, risk perception and compliance with public health measures. C_LIO_LIDespite the relatively high risk perception of a possible infection with COVID-19, we observed a steady decrease in adherence to public health measures. C_LIO_LIThroughout the study, information-seeking behaviour shifted. C_LIO_LIWe observed a decrease in acceptance among the participants in regards to avoiding physical contact. C_LI