The behavioral impacts of SARS and its implication for societal preparedness for other emerging infections

Authors

  • Sing Lee The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • Shui-shan Lee The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • Corina Shuk-ching Fung The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • Kathleen Pik-san Kwok The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Keywords:

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), anxiety, stigma, Hong Kong, discrimination

Abstract

Introduction: This study examined public attitudes toward Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in Hong Kong three months after the peak of the 2003 outbreak in order to shed light on SARS-related complaints received by the Equal Opportunities Commission of Hong Kong. Methods: A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted three months after the SARS outbreak of 1,023 randomly selected Chinese-speaking residents in Hong Kong. Results: Most of the respondents (72.2%) reported worry about contracting SARS. They attributed their anxiety to the perceived danger of the disease, the government’s unsatisfactory style of crisis management, and inconsistent health information dissemination. The majority of respondents endorsed up to 3 avoidant (67.8%) and 3 imposing (72.7%) attitudes toward individuals and/or situations considered to be at risk of spreading SARS. Logistic Regression analyses indicated that the odds for avoidant and imposing attitudes increased significantly for those who were middle aged (35-54), employed full-time or part-time, and worried over contracting SARS. Conclusions: Public attitudes that endorsed avoidant and imposing behaviors were common during the outbreak of SARS. While essential for preventive health practices, they might bring about workplace conflicts, stigma, and other negative interpersonal experiences. These problems may complicate public health efforts to control the epidemic. They may also suggest ways in which societal preparedness for future emerging infections can be improved.

Author Biographies

Sing Lee, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Professor, Department of Psychiatry Director, Hong Kong Mood Disorders Center, Faculty of Medicine

Shui-shan Lee, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Professor of Infectious Diseases, Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health Deputy Director, Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases

Corina Shuk-ching Fung, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Post-doctorate fellow, Hong Kong Mood Disorders Center

Kathleen Pik-san Kwok, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Clinical Psychologist I, Hong Kong Mood Disorders Center, Faculty of Medicine

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Published

2008-07-08

Issue

Section

Original Research