Evaluating COVID-19 infection prevention measures in Malaysia: A fuzzy DEMATEL approach

OBJECTIVE: Since unexpected COVID-19 has been causing massive losses worldwide, preventive measures have been emergency provided to curb the expansion of the epidemic and cut off transmission routes. However, there is a lack of studies that comprehensively address COVID-19 infection prevention measures. This aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation framework to identify the factors impacting COVID-19 infection prevention. Meanwhile, categorizing factors into individual, social, environmental, and technological dimensions and uncovering their interrelationships and level of importance are indeed novelties of this study.

METHODS: An integration of fuzzy logic and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) is utilized, and data was collected from a panel of professional experts in Malaysia. Using a cause-effect relationship diagram, the fuzzy DEMATEL method evaluates the causal relationships between factors.

RESULTS: Findings showed that environmental factors play the most significant roles in preventing COVID-19 infection, followed by technology, individual, and social factors. Getting vaccinated is the most crucial factor in the environmental dimension in cutting the spread of COVID-19. Telehealth, the use of personal protective equipments (PPEs), and the adoption of social distancing are the most important measures in technology, individual and social dimensions, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: This study offered valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals in designing and implementing effective strategies to prevent pandemic disease transmission. Findings can be practically applied to optimize and prioritize infection prevention measures, assign resources more effectively, and guide evidence-based decision-making in the face of evolving pandemic situations. This process involves the active commitment of all parties, including governments, medical health executives, and citizens.