title: SARS-related perceptions in Hong Kong.
abstract: To understand different aspects of community responses related to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), 2 population-based, random telephone surveys were conducted in June 2003 and January 2004 in Hong Kong. More than 70% of respondents would avoid visiting hospitals or mainland China to avoid contracting SARS. Most respondents believed that SARS could be transmitted through droplets, fomites, sewage, and animals. More than 90% believed that public health measures were efficacious means of prevention; 40.4% believed that SARS would resurge in Hong Kong; and approximately equals 70% would then wear masks in public places. High percentages of respondents felt helpless, horrified, and apprehensive because of SARS. Approximately 16% showed signs of posttraumatic symptoms, and approximately equals 40% perceived increased stress in family or work settings. The general public in Hong Kong has been very vigilant about SARS but needs to be more psychologically prepared to face a resurgence of the epidemic.
authors.affiliation: The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China. jlau@cuhk.edu.hk
authors.forename: Joseph T F
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Lau
authors.forename: Xilin
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Yang
authors.forename: Ellie
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Pang
authors.forename: H Y
authors.initials: HY
authors.lastname: Tsui
authors.forename: Eric
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Wong
authors.forename: Yun Kwok
authors.initials: YK
authors.lastname: Wing
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003625:Data Collection; D004196:Disease Outbreaks / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006723:Hong Kong; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011639:Public Opinion; D012306:Risk; D045169:Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires