Dynamic public perceptions of the coronavirus disease crisis, the netherlands, 2020

Abstract

A key component of outbreak control is monitoring public perceptions and public response. To determine public perceptions and public responses during the fi rst 3 months of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in the Netherlands, we conducted 6 repeated surveys of ≈3,000 persons. Generalized estimating equations analyses revealed changes over time as well as diff erences between groups at low and high risk. Overall, respondents perceived the risks associated with COVID-19 to be considerable, were positive about the mitigation measures, trusted the information and the measures from authorities, and adopted protective measures. Substantial increases were observed in risk perceptions and self-reported protective behavior in the fi rst weeks of the outbreak. Individual diff erences were based mainly on participants' age and health condition. We recommend that authorities constantly adjust their COVID-19 communication and mitigation strategies to fi t public perceptions and public responses and that they tailor the information for diff erent groups.