Analysis of psychological distress prevalence within the sample indicated that EI control zone was associated with psychological distress. Those in the areas where EI was present had higher risk of high psychological distress, furthermore, risks were higher in areas where EI was more active or threatening and the tightest levels of disease control were in place (i.e. red and amber/buffer zones). This finding suggests high levels of anticipatory anxiety. Interestingly, the risks of higher psychological distress in the purple zone (the region in NSW with the highest infection rate and earliest infections) were lower than in the red and amber areas. It is probable that during the timing of the study EI was more of a 'known' threat to those in the purple zone and there would have been some habituation to this risk; with many properties already infected or recovering, and restrictions eased due to the decision to let EI 'run its course' in this area at that time.