Early assessment of knowledge, attitudes, anxiety and behavioral adaptations of Connecticut residents to COVID-19

ObjectivesTo assess knowledge, attitudes, anxiety and behavioral adaptations to COVID-19. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among non-healthcare-related participants after a stay-at-home directive was implemented. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with anxiety, perceived seriousness of COVID-19 and loneliness. ResultsA total of 464 participants responded to the survey. Most participants recognized cough, shortness of breath and fever as primary symptoms of COVID-19. Nearly 50% reported high levels of anxiety to COVID-19 and 48% reported being loneliness during the social isolation. Higher level of COVID-19 knowledge was associate with higher levels with anxiety. Being married had 1.79 times higher levels of anxiety about COVID-19. Women were less likely to report loneliness than men. Older age was associated with taking the pandemic seriously, and was also associated with loneliness during the social isolation. ConclusionsIt is crucial for the public health authorities not only provide accurate and scientific information about the COVID-19 promoting protective behavior changes but also to minimize anxiety through supportive messages and recommendations for positive coping strategies and timely offering mental health counselling services for those in need.