A Systematic Review of the Definition, Measurement, and Associated Factors of Pandemic Fatigue.

The rapid emergence and widespread transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have prompted governments worldwide to enact policies and measures to manage the virus's spread. These interventions have substantially contributed to controlling disease transmission. However, they have also significantly disrupted daily life, leading to increased public fatigue and resistance to sustained control measures, a phenomenon known as pandemic fatigue. To develop a comprehensive understanding of pandemic fatigue, this review systematically explores the concept and identifies quantitative indicators for measuring it. We reviewed studies on pandemic fatigue across various countries, summarized the contributing factors, and analyzed its impact on personal protective behaviors. Our findings indicate that the enforcement of health measures significantly influences the onset of pandemic fatigue, while individual perceptions of risk can negatively affect personal protective behaviors, creating a feedback loop with increasing fatigue. These results underscore the importance of considering the current severity of the pandemic and individual decision-making processes in the implementation of interventions. Enhancing our understanding of pandemic fatigue is essential for developing effective policy responses in preparation for future potential epidemics.