Gender- and age-related differences in misuse of face masks in COVID-19 prevention in central European cities

1 ABSTRACT Objective Correct use of face masks is required for their efficacy in preventing possible droplet infections with SARS-CoV-2. We tried to provide information about differences in the distribution of gender and age groups wearing face masks incorrectly. Design Pilot field study Methods Visual observation of mask use in public, not age- and gender-related places in central European large cities regarding incorrect mask-wearing (n=523); statistical analysis (nominal scale) in terms of gender and estimated age group using the total numbers, binomial test and chi-square test. Results There is no significant difference (binomial test: p-value = 0.43) in mask misuse between the genders (female: 271 (51.8%), male: 252 (48.2%) and 0 non-binary individuals (0%)). There is a significant difference (chi-square test: p-value < 2.2e-16) in age group distribution (170 young 10-29 years (32.5%), 261 middle-aged 30-59 years (49.9%), 92 older adults ≥ 60 years (17.6%)). In total numbers, the highest counts were observed in middle-aged persons with 261 counts (49.9%). Conclusion Our study shows an uneven age-distribution of people wearing the face mask in public improperly.