Jaclyn Perhati, Joey Horvath, Sofia Manzi, and Teniyah Vinson’s Qualtrics Report on Public Perceptions of Pandemic Preparedness and Response

A study by a group of NYU students aims to evaluate the relationship between public perception of, attitude towards, and experiences associated with COVID-19 along with sources for COVID-19 related knowledge and adherence to government recommendations. The group analyzed data collected from 75 respondents’ answers to a 21-question survey.

The majority of participants were female, white, and hold a bachelor’s degree. Their actions and perceptions were assessed through questions about social distancing, hand-washing, and the use of face masks. Participants’ attitudes toward the pandemic were assessed with questions about their concern level for becoming infected, or perceived current threats to public health.

The study found public confidence in future health emergencies preparedness is low. The group highlights the significance of this finding as official health agencies recently declared the end of the COVID-19 pandemic on May 11, 2023. The group suggests continued improvement and development of emergency preparedness measures to maximize health outcomes.