*2.4. Statistical Methods*

Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample characteristics. To assess the association of individual items in the independent variable scales and demographics variables with COVID-19 preventive behaviors/actions, we computed analysis of variance (ANOVA) with COVID-19 preventive behaviors/actions scale as the dependent variable (mean scale score, 95% confidence interval, and trend *p* values are reported in Table S1 and Table 2). To assess which constructs of HBM were associated with the COVID-19 preventive behaviors/actions score (i.e., a count variable) after controlling for other variables in the multivariable model, we performed the negative binomial regression. We ruled out the use of Poisson Regression because the dependent variable showed overdispersion (Mean = 5.83; variance = 6.49), which violated the assumption of Poisson Regression. All analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 25.0 [34].

#### *2.5. Human Subject Protection*

This study protocol and materials were reviewed and approved by the Research and Ethics Committee of the Government College University [Protocol number GCU-IIB-380]. Consent was obtained from all participants with a clear declaration that the survey participation was voluntary.

**Table 2.** Descriptive Statistics for Items, by the Health Belief Model Constructs, Depalpur City, Pakistan, 2020 [N = 500].


NOTE: there were no questions in the survey to reflect "Perceived Efficacy".
