How COVID -19 can be addressed via COVID-19 appropriate behaviour?

Synopsis- Adoption of COVID-19 appropriate behaviour is the best way to reduce transmission of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Introduction-

• One of the key causes of COVID-19’s second wave in India has been the carelessness and reckless behaviour of few people. They have consistently violated Covid-19 guidelines of wearing masks and social distancing.
• According to KAP [knowledge, attitudes and practices] survey, from July 2020 to March 2021, India witnessed a 5% drop in mask-wearing.
• Relying entirely on medical science, especially treatment, is not a viable strategy for dealing with the epidemic.

Therefore, Covid-19 appropriate behaviour is a must to reduce transmission.

Read Also :–How to Prevent 3rd Wave of Covid-19?

What is behavioural science?

Behavioural science is a field of study that blends findings from social and cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and behavioural economics to make sense of human behaviour.

• With an evidence-based approach, behavioural scientists unpack what makes individuals tick: from motivations and aspirations to cognitive biases and social influences.

How behavioural science methods can be used in COVID-19 prevention?

1. Create awareness about masks
   • Provide basic information regarding who should wear them, when and where.
   • Also, provide clarity on what types of masks are most effective, how to wear a mask correctly, and when to double mask.
2. Information should be tailored accordingly to people-The government has to communicate with each group of people and provide information accordingly. But it should not discount or put down people’s beliefs or misconceptions. The government has to counter them with credible facts.
3. Need to communicate the benefits of mask-wearing – The state should share testimonials, infographics and statistics that explain how masks have prevented infection transmission.
   • The government can share testimonials from people who wear masks regularly and explaining how they have managed to avoid getting infected could help.
4. Role model leadership – Leaders at every level should play their role in influencing people for mask-wearing and vaccinations.
5. Need of responsible media–
   • The media needs to maintain a high standard and report on much more than just struggling hospitals, the oxygen crisis and vaccine and drug shortages. Instead, they have to participate in fighting misinformation and disinformation.

Way forward

• People have to be aware and sensitive about COVID-19 appropriate behaviour. Till everyone will not get vaccinated, behaviour change is the most effective measure to deal with COVID-19.
• Stringent implementation of public health and social measures remain the key to stop virus transmission.

Source- The Hindu