Face mask usage against SARS-CoV-2 among people with primary ciliary

Abstract

Background: Face masks protect against transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and their usage is important especially for people with chronic diseases such as primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). We studied the usage of masks and related experiences among people with PCD in an international context and assessed predictors of non-usage.

Methods: We used data from the COVID-PCD, an online participatory study which started on May31, 2020 and includes persons of any age from anywhere in the world with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of PCD. We sent a short questionnaire on mask usage to all participants on October 10, 2020.

Results: 282 of 565 participants (50%) completed the mask questionnaire (median age 32 years, IQ range 17-48; 64% females). Many participants avoided public places altogether; e.g. 159 (57%) avoided public transport, 131 (48%) restaurants. Among those who went to public places, most always wore a mask; e.g. 97% in public transport and 95% in restaurants. Half of the participants (n=137) experienced discomfort while wearing a mask; 94 (33%) due to runny nose, 88 (31%) due to cough, 61 (22%) due to difficulty breathing. 255 (90%) agreed that masks protects the person wearing the mask from infection and 271 (96%) agreed that masks protect others against transmission. Non-usage of masks in public was not associated with beliefs about effectiveness or discomfort of mask usage.

Conclusion: People with PCD carefully shielded themselves by avoiding most public places. Almost all wore masks whenever going out despite discomfort due to their respiratory symptoms.

Funding: PCD Family Support Group, UK, Verein Kartagener Syndrom und PCD, Germany, PCD Foundation, USA, PCD Australia, SNF 320030B_192804/1