ERIE — Moore Research Services, Inc., a market and opinion research company, today presented the results of the community survey conducted with Erie County residents regarding COVID-19. The survey gathered 2,091 Erieites’ emotions, concerns and opinions about the crisis, and how it affects daily life, work their views of leaders and institutions, and other impacts. The survey was open to Erie County residents over the age of 18 between April 16 and April 23, 2020.
According to the results: Overall, people in Erie County are anxious and concerned, but have faith and hope that our health-care institutions and local leaders can handle what comes our way. Outlook for the economy is not as bright. One third of residents have experienced a reduction in hours or job loss (temporary or permanent), and most people are not confident their financial status will be unaffected by the virus.
Erie residents are clearly changing the way they shop, eat and spend their time. Going to restaurants and grocery stores has dropped by more than half, while making meals at home and hand-washing has increased by 70 percent or more. Not surprisingly, more than half of residents are also consuming more TV, news and social media. People are exercising less, but are having more interactions with people over the phone or Internet.
Regarding coronavirus symptoms, 29 percent reported having at least one symptom of the virus (cough, fever, shortness of breath, or fatigue). However, most of these reports center around tiredness/fatigue. Specifically, 17 percent cited either a fever, cough or shortness of breath, two of which are symptomatic of many other things. Only 4 percent have spoken with a doctor about their symptoms, and only 1 percent have been tested for COVID-19.
However, despite all the anxiety and worry, there were many stories of good deeds, helpful neighbors and people in our community going out of their way to help others.
To view the full results, visit https://www.moore-research.com/news/erie-county-covid-19-survey-results.
For more information, contact Lindsay Bach-Moore at lindsay@moore-research.com.
