Qualitative study on the social meanings of using mask during COVID-19 outbreak: implications for infection control

Abstract Background: To analyze the perceptions and behaviors related to mask-using in non-medical staff. To protect against respiratory and provide insights on using mask and provide directions for the prevention of infection and health protection.Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 24 non-medical staff from various backgrounds to reflect a diversity of viewpoints during the peak season of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19) since February to March in 2020. A phenomenological approach was adopted for data analysis.Results: Multiple themes emerged: (1) Effective informs and reporting of disease information had raised public awareness of wearing mask. (2) Shortage of masks and reuse exist in the implementation process. (3) The shortage of masks will be dealt by distribution in unified way and increasing production.Conclusions: This study documented non-medical staff perceptions and experiences using mask before the outbreak and this epidemic period. Participants felt that the most effective approach to solve the problem of mask shortage in China is combine prevention infection measures, uniform distribution of masks, material reserve in public health system.