Risk identification strategies for health pandemics and epidemics on college campuses: A comprehensive analysis of heat maps and behavioral observations

Matthew M Laske, Abigail L Blackman, Fernanda S Oda, Derek D Reed and Florence D DiGennaro Reed

PLOS ONE, 2026, vol. 21, issue 3, 1-14

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of the current studies was to use direct observation and surveys to assess behavioral risk on a college campus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Study 1 used direct observation to monitor safe and at-risk mask-wearing behavior across multiple campus locations and whether mask-wearing differed when individuals were alone or in groups. Study 2 surveyed college students through a click-based campus map survey to identify high- and low-mask-wearing locations on campus and create data heat maps indicating at-risk behaviors. Direct observation analyses were then used to verify the identified locations. Results: Study 1 revealed that mask-wearing was likely during a mask-wearing policy implemented across the college campus. However, mask-wearing was less likely when people were in groups than alone. Study 2 showed that survey responses and the heat map analysis identified spatially distinct locations of perceived high and low mask-wearing. These data were validated through direct observation, verifying high and low mask-wearing at the identified locations. Conclusions: Survey heat maps paired with direct observation can help identify specific locations where safe and at-risk behaviors are most likely to occur. By identifying special patterns of risk, this comprehensive approach offers actionable information to guide interventions, policy enforcement, and resource allocation during health epidemics.

Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:plo:pone00:0343811

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343811

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