Americans across political lines took COVID precautions during pandemic peaks

New study shows Americans, regardless of political affiliation, took precautions during COVID peaks.

Why it matters

  • Shows unity in behavior across political lines during health crises.
  • Can inform public health strategies for future pandemics.

By the numbers

  • Over 430,000 survey responses analyzed.
  • Survey period: April 2020 to June 2022.
  • Visiting friends increased from 8% in April 2020 to 28% by May 2022.

The big picture

  • Public health messaging can be effective across political divides during crises.
  • Behavior changes over time as people become more complacent or informed.

What they're saying

  • Some skepticism about the study’s accessibility and implications.
  • Observations about changing behaviors over time.

Caveats

  • Study based on self-reported data.
  • Behavior varied by state and over time.
  • Retrospective study looking back at pandemic behavior.

What’s next

  • Using findings to shape future public health messages.
  • Further research into compliance with health guidelines.