A recent public opinion survey found most Alaskans are modifying their behavior to limit COVID-19 spread, the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services announced.
Eighty-two percent of 406 people surveyed in November reported both wearing a face mask “some or all of the time” and believing it necessary to change daily habits to prevent spread of the disease, according to DHSS.
“We’re encouraged to see a large majority of Alaskans respond to Governor Dunleavy’s message,” said Adam Crum, DHSS commissioner, in a news release. “We remain confident that collaborative efforts to inform Alaskans about how to best protect themselves and others is working. These survey results show Alaskans are listening and following the guidance, which is helping to slow the spread of the virus and get Alaskans’ lives back to normal faster.”
Additionally, 75% of those surveyed reported a belief that masks are effective at preventing spread of COVID-19, a belief backed by local, state, federal and world health officials.
Over 70% — 72% — of people surveyed said “the coronavirus situation in Alaska” is a serious problem. 67% reported trusting advice from state health officials. 65% reported limiting social interactions and 64% reported plans to get a COVID-19 vaccination.
Contact Ben Hohenstatt at (907)308-4895 or bhohenstatt@juneauempire.com. Follow him on Twitter at @BenHohenstatt.
