Objective To analyze the characteristics of public opinion on "air conditioning use" in the early stage of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, in order to provide a basis for formulating targeted epidemic prevention and control measures.

Methods Based on the data collected by the Public Opinion Data Center, a descriptive analysis was performed on the information directly related to air conditioning from major internet channels such as news websites, microblogs, WeChat, forums, and blogs from December 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020.

Results A total of 1 867 564 pieces of public opinion information about "air conditioning use" were collected. The development of public opinion on "air conditioning use" showed three stages: the rising period (January 18 to February 2), the sustained development period (February 3 to March 30), and the slight fluctuation period (March 30 to December 31). The public paid high attention to the disinfection and cleaning of air conditioners, operation mode of air conditioners, type of air conditioning and ventilation system, and places of offices (20.7%), restaurants (9.7%), and hospitals (9.0%). The Guidelines for Operation and Management of Air Conditioning and Ventilation Systems in Offices and Public Places During the COVID-19 Pandemic had attracted wide attention since its release with 554 405 pieces of texts, accounting for 29.7% of the total public opinion. From the perspective of communication channels, news APP provided the highest dissemination volum, with the spread of public opinion on "air conditioning use" and the Guidelines accounting for 51.33% and 48.44%, respectively.

Conclusion "Air conditioning use" has received widespread attention during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. It can effectively guide the direction of public opinion and contribute to epidemic prevention and control by accurate collection of public opinion, understanding of public questions, timely releasing of authoritative management documents, extensive health communication through popular science videos, long charts, and other channels that are easy to be accepted by the public, and timely holding of press conferences to answer public questions in a targeted manner.