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COVID-19: Fear of health and economic consequences.
Every week, the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) records the fears and concerns of the population regarding the corona pandemic in the “Corona BfR Monitor”. While the economic consequences have been the focus of concern in recent weeks, the health consequences are now estimated to be relatively high. There is also a high level of acceptance of the mask requirement, but with less and less understanding of the contact ban and other measures.
The results of the current “BfR Corona Monitor” show that, in relation to the coronavirus pandemic, the economic and health consequences are now equally worrisome for people. In recent weeks, fear of financial consequences had prevailed. BfR President Professor Dr. emphasizes that “the coronavirus is still viewed by the population as a serious threat to their own health.” Dr. Andreas Hensel in a BfR press release.
Mask requirement passed by the majority
Furthermore, in the current survey it became clear that 83 percent of respondents rated the current obligation to wear masks on local public transportation and in retail. Additionally, more than a third of respondents said they already wear masks and gloves to protect themselves from infections, according to the BfR.
Rejection of acceptance of individual measures
Other measures, such as the closure of cultural institutions and the cancellation of events, continue to be supported by a large proportion of respondents, but there is already a slight downward trend. This becomes even clearer when you close stores and ban contacts.
Business closure and prohibition of less accepted contacts
For example, only 66 percent of respondents rated the closings as appropriate (compared to 86 percent for the first Corona monitor), and 66 percent (initially 92 percent) advocated a ban on contacts. Almost unchanged since the start of the Corona monitor in March, the high level of approval of restrictions on travel activities (originally 97 percent, now 93 percent).
Almost no improvement in the feeling of security
However, all the measures taken, including the obligation to wear a mask, apparently have not caused a significantly greater feeling of security regarding the risk of infection in the population. “As in the previous week, only 36 percent of survey participants are convinced that they can protect themselves against infection with the new coronavirus,” reports the BfR. Closeness to other people is still perceived as the most likely route of infection. (fp)
Author:
Dipl. Geogr. Fabian Peters
Sources:
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR): Coronavirus: health and economic concern (published April 30, 2020), bfr.bund.de
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR): BfR Corona Monitor – as of April 28, 2020, bfr.bund.de
Important note:
This article contains general information only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It cannot replace a visit to the doctor.
