We sought to explore people’s perceptions of adhering to infection control behaviours in the home during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to increase our understanding of adherence, and to inform the adaptation of an online behavioural intervention called Germ Defence. Thirteen participants completed thinkaloud interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The interviews were triangulated with open-ended survey data from 124 participants.Thematic analysis generated 7 themes;perceived risk, belief in the efficacy of protective behaviours, acceptability of the behaviours, having capacity to perform the behaviours, habit forming reduces effort involved in the behaviours, having the confidence to perform the behaviours, and social norms affecting motivation to engage in the behaviours. Behaviours such as isolating and social distancing at home were identified as less acceptable than cleaning and handwashing, influenced by the need for connection and intimacy with other household members. This was especially true in the absence of symptoms and when levels of perceived risk were low. People felt more empowered when they understood that even small changes, such as spending some time apart, were worthwhile in order to reduce exposure and lessen viral load.The current study provided valuable insight into the acceptability and feasibility of the protective behaviours, and how behavioural guidelines could be presented to the public during a pandemic. The findings were used to directly inform the optimisation of the Germ Defence intervention.
Infection control in the home: A qualitative study exploring perceptions and experiences of adhering to protective behaviours in the home during the COVID-19 pandemic