Changes in preventive behavior during the first three months of the COVID-19 outbreak in Iran

Objectives Iran is facing a big challenge controlling the COVID-19 outbreak and it is unclear to how individuals are engaging in preventive behaviors. This study aimed to investigate changes in preventive behaviors during the first three months of the COVID-19 outbreak in Iran. Method This cross-sectional survey was conducted on 1477 adults aged 18years and older in 31 provinces of Iran. Data was collected by an anonymous online questionnaire. Result Overall, engagement in preventive behaviors was relatively acceptable and more than 45% of subjects always carried out all preventive behaviors. Engaging in the all preventive behaviors had a peak in the second month and obviously declined during third month. Engagement in some preventive behaviors such as "wearing a face mask" and "keeping a safe distance from others" observed less than other behaviors. There was statistically significant difference in the engagement in preventive behaviors by gender and occupation (P Conclusion Although engagement in preventive behaviors was relatively acceptable at first two months of the outbreak, it has declined gradually. This is a warning for public health decision makers. COVID-19 is still a crucial issue in Iran and it is necessary that government decision be based on the fact that Iranian people must live with a coronavirus for months, with full caution and compliance toward all preventive care protocols.