COVID-19 behavioural insights study: Preliminary findings from Finland, April-May, 2020

The COVID-19 monitoring behavioural insights study was conducted from April-May 2020 in Finland. Respondents reported feeling confident protecting themselves against COVID-19 infection. Worries shifted from overloading the health system (mean value 5.5 [95% CI: 5.4-5.6]) to mental health concerns (mean value 5.3 [95% CI 5.2-5.4]). Maintaining physical distancing from families and friends decreased by 7% and 6%. Respondents mostly agreed that if a vaccine would become available, they would get it. The decrease in acceptance of recommended measures needs further analysis, but current results provide evidence to support the response. Key points Currently limited information available on the complex interaction between epidemiology, media attention, pandemic control measures, risk perception and compliance with public health measures. Despite the relatively high risk perception of a possible infection with COVID-19, we observed a steady decrease in adherence to public health measures. Throughout the study, information-seeking behaviour shifted. We observed a decrease in acceptance among the participants in regards to avoiding physical contact.