The Effect of Prevention Practices Taken During the Pandemic Process on the Prevalence of Other Respiratory Infections

Abstract

Purpose: In this study, it is aimed to determine whether there is a change in the frequency of upper respiratory tract and lower respiratory tract infections except for COVID-19 between 2019-2020, and to determine the effect of pandemic measures on this change in case of a change. Materials and Methods: The study is cross-sectional. Research data were collected using a structured questionnaire and the country's internet-based personal health information data (E-Pulse). Results: Based on both the statements of participants and records, it was determined that the number of respiratory tract infections decreased during the pandemic period compared to the pre-pandemic period. Being in crowded environments, doing social activities, complying with social distancing, washing hands, and the presence of other members of the family in a crowded environment had no effect on having respiratory tract infections in 2020. Conclusion: Non-COVID-19 respiratory tract infections decreased during the pandemic period. The measures taken and changing lifestyle are effective in these results. Personal risk perception is important in individual behavior.

Keywords

• coronavirus
• protection
• protective equipment
• risk reduction