COVID-19 Panel Survey in the Municipality of Anchorage: Highlights

Abstract

A panel survey of 316 individuals was conducted from May 20 to May 22, which was a follow-up to the phone survey conducted two weeks prior. Based on the results of the panel survey, the overall risk of infection by COVID-19 significantly increased in Anchorage. Additionally, surveyed individuals were more likely to have physical contact with those outside their household, practiced less physical distancing, touched things outside their home more often, and had decreased perceived threat to COVID-19. However, the majority of respondents were still engaging in behavior that limited transmission, such as refraining from physical contact with those outside their household, wearing masks some or all of the time they were out, and avoiding visiting or receiving friends. About half of respondents reported that Anchorage was opening up at about the right pace, while about a third felt Anchorage was opening up too quickly. Despite Anchorage opening up, most respondents also reported feeling uncomfortable engaging in activities that had been previously restricted, such as going to a bar, going to the movies, or exercising at an athletic club. While the findings from these surveys are informative, this survey does not fully capture the needs and perspectives of Anchorage’s marginalized communities. Consequently, the UAA team is currently conducting a needs assessment of Anchorage’s marginalized communities, with results anticipated in early July. As Alaska and Anchorage continue to open, particularly with increasing protests around systemic racial inequity, the community could be reminded to give each other SPACE9 to continue to prevent further transmission of COVID-19. This document is a brief summary of panel survey highlights. Two more panel surveys of Anchorage residents are planned to track changes in behaviors, perceptions of COVID-19, and mental health as the situation continues to change.