Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) called for taking preventive measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Preventive behaviors are required when the risk is perceived. The present study aimed to investigate individuals’ preventative behaviors towards understanding and worrying about COVID-19 in the Iranian society. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 342 respondents in the spring of 2021 using the convenience sampling method. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of three sections of demographic questions about awareness and basic issues. Descriptive statistical methods were used to analyze the data. In addition, the chi-square test and the Spearman’s correlation coefficient were used to examine the association between questions and demographic variables. Results: The findings showed that 209 (61.1) respondents wore masks outdoors at a very high level. Only 40 (11.7) respondents observed social distance requirements (at least more than 1.5 meters) at a very low level. Besides, 309 (90.4) respondents washed their hands properly thoroughly at moderate to very high levels. Conclusions: COVID-19 Preventive behaviors among respondents was associated to their perception of and concerns over COVID-19 contraction, raising their awareness of the disease as well as promoting concerns over it in the society.