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Cross-sectional study of face mask use during the COVID-19 pandemic-Lusaka and Mansa Districts, Zambia, December 2020


Ernest Kateule
Ignatius Banda
Muziya Chika
Ezekiel Tembo
Kabukabu Akufuna
Kingsley Keembe
Lorraine Chikonka
Marian Matipa Mulenga
Mitolo Musumba
Kelvin Mwakapushi
Rehab Mwanansoka
Deborah Tembo
Samantha Mwansa
Wisdom Banda
Chris Bupe
Floyd Chabu Chilufya
Given Mweene Hatyoka
Danny Kabwe
Bright Katai
Danny Mwenya Katongo
Mateyo Moyo
Misheck Mpundu
Leslie Mukamba
Maximillian Musunse
Lukundo Namukanga
Martin Nyambe Nyambe
Morgan Sakala
Judith Sakeyo
Chishiba Sepete
Charles Tembo
Richard Lubumba
Tamara Tembo
Ante Mutati
Patrick Chanda Kabwe
Nyambe Sinyange

Abstract

Introduction: coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is primarily spread through respiratory secretions of infected persons, and face mask use has shown to decrease transmission. In Zambia, anecdotal evidence indicates low face mask use among the general population. We objectively assessed face masks use among Lusaka and Mansa residents in December 2020.


Methods: we conducted a cross sectional study of face mask usage in Lusaka and Mansa Districts from 16-23 December 2020. A standardized tool was used to visually observe face mask usage and correct face mask usage at various outdoor locations in Lusaka and Mansa. Logistic regression was used to determine association of face mask use and correct face mask use with selected demographic variables. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.


Results: in total, 4070 persons were observed in Lusaka and 1166 Mansa Districts. Face masks usage was 24% in Lusaka and 27% in Mansa. Among the persons wearing face masks, 621 (48%) wore them correctly (52% in Lusaka and 35% in Mansa; p < 0.01 for difference). Being at a health facility (OR: 10.11 [95% CI: 7.99 - 12.81]), shopping mall (OR: 6.38 [95% CI: 5.07 - 8.03]), and school (OR: 2.39 [95% CI: 1.85 - 3.10]) were associated with wearing face masks compared to being at a bus station.


Conclusion: face masks usage in public spaces was low in the two districts in Zambia, which might reduce efforts to control COVID-19. Investigating reasons for poor face masks adherence may help formulate effective strategies to increase face masks utilization in Zambia.


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eISSN: 1937-8688