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A name-based mask rationing plan in Taiwan may contribute to reduced public anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic: an observational study
Yu-Lin Tai;
Hsin Chi;
Nan-Chang Chiu;
Cheng-Yin Tseng;
Ya-Ning Huang;
Chien-Yu Lin
ABSTRACT
Background:
The emerging COVID-19 is a severe health crisis worldwide. Wearing mask was straightforward but increased anxiety leading to stockpiling of masks is common during the pandemic.
Objective:
We aimed to summarize the name-based mask rationing plan implemented in Taiwan and explore the perceived anxiety of shortage of masks.
Methods:
The government of Taiwan took action to control the supply and allocation of facemasks. We summarize the mask rationing plan. A simple survey with a 5-point scale questionnaire that aimed to investigate the overall responses to the mask rationing plan was conducted to 44 participants.
Results:
We summarize the mask rationing plan and one of the software applications of face mask availability. The mask rationing plan resulted in a general decrease in anxiety (4.05 ± 1.15). And a majority of people felt that the mask rationing plan was satisfactory (4.2±0.92 points).
Conclusions:
We found the unique name-based mask rationing plan might contribute to the appropriate allocation of masks and to a reduction in public anxiety.
Citation
Please cite as:
Tai YL, Chi H, Chiu NC, Tseng CY, Huang YN, Lin CY
The Effect of a Name-Based Mask Rationing Plan in Taiwan on Public Anxiety Regarding a Mask Shortage During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Observational Study