Early COVID-19 outbreak, individuals’ mask attitudes and purchase intentions: a cohesive care

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to explore individuals’ attitudes and intentions towards mask purchase in Pakistan at an initial outbreak of COVID-19. Design/methodology/approach The study is quantitatively based on the cross-sectional data. The data are collected through a survey questionnaire. Convenience sampling strategy is used to target the individuals of Pakistan. At the first, 650 questionnaires were distributed. In return, the authors received 321 raw samples with the response rate of 53.5%. Finally, 316 useful samples are proceeded to infer the final results. Findings The structural equation model’s results demonstrate a positive and significant effect of fear of complication of COVID-19, knowledge about COVID-19 and health consciousness on attitudes towards the mask. Further, attitudes towards mask are found to be the robust analyst of mask purchase intention. Research limitations/implications The study used cross-sectional data through a single source of data collection. The findings of the survey are on the sample size of 316. Practical implications The study would help policymakers to formulate the strategies to make aware individuals regarding their health and COVID-19 issues. The study would provide the guidelines to the government agents of Pakistan to combat with COVID-19 through the purchase of mask. The shopkeepers would be aware to observe the intentions and attitudes of consumers towards mask. Originality/value The outcomes of this study offer a shred of empirical evidence for attitudes and intentions regarding the purchase of mask, particularly for developing country settings.