New findings, led by researchers of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and LSU, say that most people routinely follow recommended guidelines against COVID-19 infection—except their home.
While the majority of people are aware of how COVID-19 spreads, and understand how to be safe, and generally follow preventative guidelines, roughly one-quarter report having had COVID-19. The majority of them were infected by someone they lived with, by far the most common source of infection.
The early study findings further highlight the importance of vaccinations, according to LSU Professor of Sociology and co-director of the study Wesley Shrum.
“Stopping the spread of COVID-19 would require people to change private household behaviors in ways they believe are both difficult and unnecessary, and they aren’t going to do that,” Shrum said.
The study surveyed over 10,000 participants across all 50 states in the United States using an online survey. Responses were gathered between August 10 and 22, 2021.
Americans, overall, demonstrate a “astonishing level” of adherence to cautious measures, Shrum says. Not only do individuals understand how coronavirus is transmitted, but they also adhere to public advice. The majority of respondents were aware of and adhered to the majority of the 32 particular precautions listed in the survey. Even when individuals believed prevention actions were unnecessary, they implemented them to ensure the safety of others.
According to the study, it is often easier for people to adopt new behaviors, such as wearing facemasks, than it is to modify established behaviors, such as avoiding routine areas or activities.
The guideline to avoid close contact with housemates was widely regarded as the most difficult and least necessary. This is in stark contrast to the result that the majority of patients were infected by someone they shared an apartment with.
“Simply put, Americans do not realize the danger of close interactions with housemates,” Shrum said.
“They’re not aware of the risk of infection that comes with sustained contact with people in their closest network.”
And yet, the survey found that the majority of Americans take serious measures even when they believe they are unnecessary or incorrect. While facemasks are controversial than half believed they greatly reduced virus spread—less than 1 in 20 claimed they never use them in a store or near another person. Some reported wearing facemasks the majority or all of the time in their own house or car, including when alone. Half reported using facemasks outside despite the absence of other persons.
Americans rely on national health professionals, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as local health specialists and family members, to obtain information about COVID-19. The researchers discovered little evidence that disinformation on social media has been a significant problem: it is the least popular source of information and is widely regarded as the least trustworthy.
Many Americans, on the other hand, have difficulty believing the information they receive from authorities, believe specialists do not communicate properly, and actively avoid becoming overwhelmed by pandemic news. Their primary issue is with incorrect or incorrect information and a lack of consensus among specialists. Moreover a quarter of Americans believe that national experts are “rarely or never” reliable. Journalists, social media users, and national specialists are also widely seen as having exaggerated their response to the outbreak.
Among study respondents, most had already been vaccinated while others said they were likely to get vaccinated—most agree vaccines are the main solution to the pandemic. And yet, a majority also worries vaccines may be harmful in some way.
“Interestingly, despite waning trust in media, government and expert sources, many Americans are actually willing to follow expert advice related to vaccinations,” said Paige Miller, professor of sociology, criminology and anthropology and co-director of the study at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
“I think these findings really emphasize the importance of consistent and measured messaging from officials. They need to address people’s concerns in a manner that is both clear, empathetic and avoids demonizing or further polarization, particularly if we want to increase compliance during this pandemic or others in the future.”
The majority of Americans feel that the pandemic had some positive aspects as well. Around 90% cited working remotely, while more than 80% identified creative and recreational pursuits, as well as prayer and meditation. Many consider the pandemic as a good outcome because it has resulted in a cleaner environment and more time with family and friends.
The researchers discovered little evidence of a decline in social interaction during the pandemic. The majority of people reported no difference in the amount of time they spend with friends, family, coworkers, and neighbours between online and in-person gatherings. The majority stated that social ties improved. Only a few individuals reported having had disagreements with others regarding their behavior, such as wearing facemasks.
“Most people are getting vaccinated, wearing masks, socially distancing and following public health recommendations,” Shrum said.
“In my opinion, Americans have done a great job on both sides of the political spectrum in knowing what to do and doing it. Whatever our political beliefs, most people are taking the recommended precautions. And as far as social distancing inside our own homes, it’s really hard. We can’t really expect people to avoid the people they live with.”
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