SoapBoxSample Releases Data on US Residents’ Perception, Attitudes and Awareness of Coronavirus
Research study reveals a surprising number of Americans cannot accurately identify the symptoms of COVID-19
March 16 , 2020, Los Angeles, CA — Research firm SoapBoxSample announced today, the release of the first part of their ongoing series on COVID-19. As families across the US prepare for the disruption of their daily lives, SoapBoxSample launched a comprehensive research initiative designed to monitor public sentiment in the wake of the life-threatening Coronavirus. Results from the first survey revealed that a surprising number of Americans cannot accurately identify the symptoms of COVID-19. Additionally, 1 in 3 misidentified the incubation period of COVID-19 as 14 hours, when preliminary research from the CDC suggests it may be as long as 14 days. Over the coming weeks SoapBox will continue to measure changes in public sentiment and understanding, and make the data publicly available. The goal of this initiative is to promote awareness of the virus, thereby enabling the public to make responsible and informed decisions.
“Misinformation is such a catalyst of fear,” said Jacqueline Rosales, COO of SoapBoxSample and icanmakeitbetter. “Our hope is that by sharing this data with the public, health officials and the media, we can help identify and eliminate the knowledge gaps that could potentially lead to unintentional spread of the virus.”
SoapBoxSample’s first poll of 401 US residents, fielded March 4 – March 5, focused on awareness, prevention and attitudes. The survey measured Americans awareness of how the Coronavirus is spread, whether they can correctly identify the symptoms, their understanding of the origins and mortality rate, and how to prevent the spread of the virus. About a third of those surveyed said they believe they are at risk, while a surprising 22% incorrectly report they believe a flu shot can prevent Coronavirus. Only half of Americans correctly identified the source of COVID-19.
As the situation surrounding COVID-19 continues to evolve, the American public will be exposed to a myriad of news reports. Taking the pulse of the American public to understand what information they are retaining, and whether that information is accurate, is crucial to the US containment strategy. SoapBoxSample seeks to assist with keeping the public safe and informed, by providing this data to the public at no cost.
The results of SoapBoxSample’s second survey of public awareness, fielded March 4 – March 5 focused on prevention. This survey measured Americans understanding of how to prevent the spread of the virus. Thankfully, 89% of those surveyed were aware of methods they can use to stop the spread of COVID-19. This includes washing hands for at least 20 seconds (90% of those aware of prevention methods), avoiding touching one’s face (81%), covering coughs and sneezes with an elbow (79%) amongst other correct methods (disinfecting surfaces, using alchohol based cleaners when soap and water isn’t available, etc.). While this information in encouraging, there is an alarming number of respondents who believe that a flu shot can protect them from Coronavirus (22%). This poll also touched on the top sources of information that respondents trust to educate themselves on this ongoing pandemic. More than half (54%) of respondents use television and news outlets to learn more about the ever-changing topic of COVID-19. The CDC had the second highest mention, with 41% of respondents using government agency as one of their sources of information.
Parts 2 and 3 will follow in the coming days. To receive ongoing information and stats, please follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram.
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