[Perception of the risk of COVID-19 and preventive measures in Mexico]

The characteristics of the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 virus increased the need to implement prevention measures, in order to avoid its spread; therefore, there is an interest in the risk perception and an intention in people to adopt protective measures against COVID-19.

To show the causal factors that contribute to a high/low perception of risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A quantitative, analytical and explanatory exploratory study was carried out with a crosssectional design. To collect data, a self-access survey was designed, using the Dimensional Assessment of Perceived Risk procedure, based on the psychometric paradigm. For data analysis, the classification tree method was utilized.

The descriptive analysis indicated that the surveyed population had a concern about the pandemic of 3.8 on a scale ranging from 1 to 5, which shows a medium-high perception of COVID-19 risk; however, respondents underestimated their personal risk (vulnerability) in relation to that of others. The classification tree analysis showed that the independent variables that contribute directly to the global perception of risk are the severity of the pandemic, vulnerability and catastrophic power.

It was found a positive effect: The greater perception of severity, and susceptibility to acquiring the virus, the more taking of preventive measures.