Analisis Penggunaan Masker di Ruang Publik Terbuka pada Era Post-Pandemi Covid-19

Abstract

Introduction. The official mask-wearing mandate has been lifted. Despite health and environmental issues related to mask-wearing, a number of people are nevertheless wear masks in open public spaces in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era. Objective. To understand the overview and motives for mask-wearing in open public spaces in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era. Method. A descriptive study with a cross-sectional design. Data were obtained through observation and questionnaire. Results and Discussion. There were 438 observed subjects and 82 questionnaire respondents. According to observation, 80% were not wearing masks, while 20% were wearing masks. Surgical masks were the most common type (89%), followed by cloth masks (11%). Proper usage was observed in 76% subjects, while the other 24% did not show a proper usage. Based on the questionnaire, reasons for mask usage were comfort (57%), perceived necessity (39%), and perceived attractiveness (4%). Mask wearers were distributed in rural areas (37%), suburban areas (38%), and urban areas (25%). Conclusion. A number of people still wear masks, and a small portion of them do not wear masks properly. Education on proper mask usage and mask waste management for microplastic reduction is needed.