Coping with subjectively experienced coronavirus risks: perspectives of young, chronically ill adults

Abstract

Background: Young adults with chronic diseases are considered to be at increased risk due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19). Information is lacking regarding whether and how they try to protect themselves, what their perception of risk is, and how the lockdown is experienced, in particular in German-speaking areas. Objectives: The paper analyzes coronavirus protection behaviors of young chronically ill adults, their risk perceptions, and how lockdown was experienced. Material and Methods: Episodic interviews were conducted with N = 59 young adults (mostly students or vocational trainees) affected by type 1 diabetes (N = 16), cancer (N = 18), inflammatory bowel disease (N = 21), or certain rare, complex diseases (N = 4). Data analysis is based on thematic coding. Results: Few respondents believe their personal risk from coronavirus is low, so they consider protective measures such as vaccinations as secondary. However, most interviewees stringently adhere to coronavirus pandemic guidelines. They may either feel obliged to do so, e.g., to protect other vulnerable persons, or they perceive themselves as very susceptible to severe corona infections. Regardless of the experienced limitations during the lockdown, it is also associated with new options for many interviewees. Online teaching makes it easier for them to continue their studies/vocational training despite their chronic illness and to maintain contact with their friends. Conclusion: Subjective corona risk perceptions and protective behaviors of young chronically ill adults should be considered more in the care and support of these target groups. Hybrid teaching should be continued beyond the lockdown so that young adults can participate socially despite their chronic illness while being protected from coronavirus and other infections.