Mask wearing by public in city of patna – a study

Introduction: A novel coronavirus was identified in December 2019, as the pathogen to cause pneumonia in Wuhan, China, which was temporarily named as 2019-nCoV by the World Health Organization. Use of Face mask is a protective measure taken by individuals to protect them from contracting COVID 19. A Study is being conducted to see the Public awareness regarding use of mask during peak duration of COVID 19 in Patna Region, capital of Bihar state, India. Material and Method: The study conducted during peak of COVID-19, July- September 2020. A sample of 10000 (ten thousands) individuals from different parts of the city taken together about proper and improper wearing of mask. Results: A total of Ten thousand individuals randomly chosen, out of which 6814 (68.14 %) were male. Out of total only 3647 (36.47 %) persons wore the mask. About 63% persons do not wore the mask. Overall among ten thousand individuals only 14.03 % wore the mask properly. Various types of mask were used by individuals, of which cloth made mask was most common 70.24 %. Discussion: The available evidence suggests that near-universal adoption of non-medical masks when out in public, in combination with complementary public health measures could successfully reduce community spread if such measures are sustained. In this study it was found that only about 14 % peoples wore the mask properly, that can prevent virus transmission. Conclusion: Community spread of COVID-19 could be restricted by universal use of mask by people along with complementary public health measures. Even though repeated and widespread campaign by print and electronic media to wear mask in public places, peoples are not doing so. It shows lack of fear about the grievous situation of COVID-19 worldwide.