Many Americans Concerned That Reopening Country Will Cause Second Wave of Coronavirus Infections
FRIDAY, May 22, 2020 (HealthDay News) — As U.S. President Donald Trump urges states to “open up our country” from coronavirus pandemic-related restrictions, most Americans are concerned that doing so will lead to a second wave of infections, a new poll finds.
Of the 1,056 adults surveyed between May 14 and May 18, 83% said they’re at least somewhat concerned that easing restrictions in their area will result in a new surge of infections, with 54% saying they’re very or extremely concerned, according to the Associated Press-NORAC Center for Public Affairs Research poll.
With reopening, it’s essential for people to return to self-quarantine if they are exposed to the virus, about 80% of respondents said.
About 6 in 10 said widespread testing for the coronavirus is necessary to resume public activities, along with requiring people to stay six feet apart in most places and to wear face masks when they’re near others outside their homes.
Nearly half of the respondents said it’s crucial for a vaccine to be available before public life resumes, while another third said that’s important, but not essential.
About 60% said they believe people should have to stay in their homes except for essential errands, with about one-third strongly in favor of such a rule, according to the poll.
Support for stay-at-home orders has slipped from 80% in April, as has support for restricting gatherings to 10 people or fewer, which was at 69% in the new poll, compared with 82% in April.
Overall, the findings suggest that many Americans don’t expect a return to normal anytime soon, but rather an extended period of physical distancing, face masks and occasional quarantines, according to the AP.
Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
QUESTION
What is the Wuhan coronavirus?
See Answer
Source link