A national cross-sectional survey of public perceptions, knowledge, and behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic

• DOI: 10.1101/2020.07.07.20147413
• Publication Date: 2020-07-08T17:15:14Z
• Authors: Jeanna Parsons Leigh; Kirsten Fiest; Rebecca Brundin-M...; Kara Plotnikoff; Andrea Soo; Emma E. Sypes; Liam Whalen-Browne; Sofia B. Ahmed; Karen E.A. Burns; Alison Fox-Robichaud; Shelly Kupsch; Shelly Longmore; Srinivas Murthy; Daniel J. Niven; Bram Rochwerg; Henry T. Stelfox
• Keywords: Social distance; Pandemic; Misinformation; Cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction Efforts to mitigate the global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have largely relied on broad compliance with public health recommendations yet navigating high volume evolving information and misinformation related SARS-CoV-2 can be challenging. We assessed national perceptions (e.g., severity, concerns, health), knowledge transmission, sources), behaviors physical distancing) COVID-19 in Canada understand perspectives inform future initiatives. Methods administered a online survey goal obtaining responses from 2000 adults residing Canada. Respondent sampling was stratified by age, sex, region. used descriptive statistics summarize respondent characteristics tested for significant overall regional differences using chi-squared tests t-tests, as appropriate. Results collected 1,996 eligible questionnaires between April 26 th May 1 st , 2020. One-fifth (20%) respondents knew someone diagnosed COVID-19, but few had positive themselves (0.6%). Negative impacts pandemic conditions were evidenced several areas, including concerns about healthcare (e.g. sufficient equipment, 52%), stress (45%), worsening social (49%) mental/emotional (39%) health. Most (88%) felt they good excellent virus predominantly accessed (74%) trusted (60%) Canadian news television, newspapers/magazines, or non-government websites information. found distancing measures (80% either self-isolating always distancing). identified perceptions, knowledge, COVID-19. Discussion that is acquired through domestic sources, which may explain self-reported prevention measures. The results highlight broader impact general public’s wellbeing, outside personal infection. study findings should communications during pandemics.