The Association Between Quarantine Duration and Psychological Outcomes, Social Distancing, and Vaccination Intention During the Second Outbreak of COVID-19 in China

Objectives: To examine the association between quarantine duration and psychological outcomes, social distancing, as well as vaccination intention during the second outbreak of COVID-19 in China.Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in January 2021. Participants were invited to complete the measurement of quarantine duration, social distancing, psychological distress, wellbeing (WHO-5), and vaccination intention. Multiple linear regression and logistic regression were performed to examine the relationship between quarantine duration and psychological distress, wellbeing, social distancing, and vaccination intention.Results: Of the 944 participants, 17.2% of the participants experienced quarantine. Quarantine for 1-7 days increased the social distancing (beta = 2.61 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.90-3.33) and vaccination intention (OR = 2.16 95% CI 1.22-3.82). Quarantine for >7 days was associated with the increased social distancing (beta = 3.00 95% CI 2.37-3.64) and psychological distress (beta = 1.03 95% CI 0.22-1.86), and decreased wellbeing (beta = 1.27 95% CI 0.29-2.26).Conclusion: Longer quarantine duration showed increased social distancing, increased psychological distress, and decreased wellbeing. Quarantine for 1-7 days was associated with increased vaccination intention.

Automated summary

This study examines the association between quarantine duration and psychological outcomes, social distancing, and vaccination intention during the second outbreak of COVID-19 in China. The findings suggest that longer quarantine duration is associated with increased social distancing, increased psychological distress, and decreased wellbeing. Quarantine for 1-7 days is associated with increased vaccination intention.