Hygiene behaviour among youths before and during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction and purpose of work: For years, scientific bodies have emphasized the essential role of proper hygiene in preventing infectious diseases. However, as is well known, many do not follow basic hygiene rules. Only in the face of spreading epidemics does the society understand the need to take care of it. Such simple actions are crucial in limiting and inhibiting the effects of an epidemic.

Material and method: The results of the study were obtained on the basis of an online survey.

Results: Before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the respondents washed their hands 4 to 7 times a day, which took them mainly 10-25 seconds. 91% of adolescents used soap and water to wash their hands. Almost every respondent (96.4%) washed their hands after using the toilet, about 78% after returning home, and every 5th person after contact with money. The vast majority of respondents did not use disinfectants when washing their hands was impossible. As many as 60% of teenagers covered their face with their hands while sneezing and coughing. During the coronavirus pandemic, still the most respondents (37.5%) wash their hands 4 to 7 times a day, but as many as 32.1% do it more than 10 times a day. Almost 37% of people take about 30 seconds to do so, compared to less than 10% before the pandemic. In addition, 66.7% use hand disinfectants.

Conclusions: In the situation related to the coronavirus pandemic, an increase in hygiene has been noted in each of the categories. The current situation has prompted young people to change their habits and keep them in the future.