The prevalence and pattern of mask use and its association with COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality in Tabriz, Iran

Background. Using personal protective equipment, including masks, is one of the most important ways to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and pattern of mask use and its association with COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality in different areas of Tabriz, Iran. Methods. In this population-based study, 6,600 pedestrians were selected by multi-stage proportional sampling method in nine areas of Tabriz in 2021. The data was collected using the observation method. For each participant, we recorded gender, approximate age, mask usage, type of mask, and correct or incorrect use. The data of COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality for six months (from 21 March 2021 to 22 September 2021) were obtained from the Integrated Syndromic Surveillance System (ISSS). Results. The overall prevalence of facial mask use was 56.8% (95% CI: 55.56 – 57.95). Out of 3,421 men, 1,599 (46.7%; 95% CI: 45.1-48.4) and out of 3,179 women, 2,147 (67.5%; 95% CI: 65.9-69.2) were used face mask (P<0.001). The correlations between mask use and morbidity (r=0.375, P=0.320) and mortality (r=0.219, P=0.571) rates were not statistically significant. Conclusion. The percentage of using face masks in Tabriz was relatively low, especially among males and young people. Also, there was no significant relationship between COVID-19 morbidity and mortality and mask use. Practical Implications. The results of the present study showed that the percentage of mask use in men and the youth was relatively low. In times of disease epidemics, it is necessary to create the necessary sensitivity in these groups and to carry out the necessary training and interventions to increase the use of masks and protective measures.