Risk perception on COVID-19

Risk perception on COVID-19

Risk perception is the instinctive appraisal made by individuals regarding hazards that one might be exposed to. When the COVID-19 broke out, many people’s perception of the virus’ risk was low. This was because it was a new disease and people lacked relevant knowledge regarding it. Few people adhered to the preventive measures but that changed as people started being informed. COVID-19 risk is perceived to be involuntary hence the risk is greater. Since it is imposed by others, more people are driven to adhere to the set measures because they do not have the power to choose whether to be exposed or not when in the presence of others. Some people perceive the risk for COVID-19 to be low due to the lack of confidence in governments and health authorities to manage it. A perfect example is of Tanzania where the credibility of health institutions and equipment has been undermined, and with this, fewer people are likely to adhere to the guidelines stipulated by the World Health Organization to prevent the disease. The risk for COVID-19 is perceived greater because of its catastrophic potential. The disease has proven to have a high morbidity and mortality rate, and this has led people into believing that they have to adopt the recommended preventive measures to live. The adoption of COVID-19 preventative measures is influenced by the perceived degree of certainty surrounding the anticipated behavior outcomes. People believe that failure to behave as recommended, they would be risking their lives. Just as Mutahi Kagwe said, “If we treat this disease normally it will treat us abnormally.”